Board of Directors

Board members come from all walks of life. They share a commitment to the OMHS and the animals in our care and have skills that are required by the Board.

• Senior management and governance experience
• Strategy and policy development experience
• Previous profit or not for profit board or committee experience
• Strong ties to the Oakville and Milton communities
• Willing to be an ambassador or advocate of the organization to assist in raising profile and funds
• A strategic and open mindset coupled with a sense of urgency to get things done
• Team-player with ability to participate and contribute in a variety of different initiatives

• Strong leadership and management skills
• Able to work with others in an effective and respectful manner
• Able to communicate effectively, leading informed discussions with the Board
• Philanthropy and fundraising knowledge considered an asset

• Finance • Legal • Board Governance • Strategic Planning • Philanthropy/Fund Development
• Marketing • Media/Public Relations • Animal Health Care

Age:

• By law, Board members must be at least eighteen years of age.

Education:

• Formal education is not a requirement for all Board positions, though it is desirable to have certain professionals on the Board to ensure an appropriate mix of perspectives at the table. Many candidates may possess a combination of work and personal experience that provides them with the necessary knowledge and understanding of the financial, administrative, ethical and policy issues that may be put to the Board.

Knowledge/Awareness:

• Candidates should possess an interest in animal welfare and should understand the need to demonstrate a public image that is in keeping with the philosophies and goals of the OMHS.

Personal Suitability:

• It is desirable to have Board members who are willing and have confidence to challenge proposed policies, activities, etc. of the organization. However the ability to challenge must be tempered with recognition of the need to work in a cooperative and collegial manner and demonstrate a style that values consensus and unity.
• OMHS welcomes diversity in the workplace and encourage applications from all qualified candidates including men, women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and aboriginal peoples. OMHS will accommodate persons with a disability throughout the recruitment and selection process.  Interested persons with a disability are encouraged to make their needs known in advance if accommodation is required.

Financial Commitment:

• All Board members are expected to personally support OMHS at a level that is meaningful to them.

The Board of Directors usually meets once per month in the evening on the last Monday of the month at the Oakville Town Hall, with the possible exception of July, August and December. Reports, background materials, and other information are sent to Board members several days before the meeting, and Board members are expected to have read the materials and have their questions and comments prepared.  Board Members are also expected to attend the Annual General Meeting in June.

Since discussions may involve confidential or sensitive issues, Board members are asked to sign a Confidentiality Agreement and an Agreement to adhere to the OMHS Conflict of Interest Policy.

Board member attendance is expected at most, if not all, major OMHS events.

In addition to the monthly meeting and periodic events, Board members are expected to serve on at least one committee that meet on a regular basis and where there are usually assigned specific tasks to be completed individually or working in collaboration with other committee members.

If you wish to apply to serve on the Board of Directors or a Board Committee:

1. Send a cover letter and resume to nominations@omhs.ca.
2. If selected for an interview, a member of the Governance & Nominations Committee will arrange an interview with you;
3. If selected, this Committee will present you to the Board of Directors for their approval and then as a part of the slate of Directors for the Board at the Annual General Meeting in June (note: you may not have to wait until June. From time to time, a vacancy arises mid-year).

There are many rewards from serving on the Board of Directors:

1. Sharing with a team in the accomplishment of doing something important for the OMHS, the community and the animals;
2. Using your skills in new ways and addressing very interesting issues;
   3. Learning more about the Oakville & Milton Humane Society and how it operates; and
   4. Developing your volunteer knowledge and skills.