CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The Ottawa Board of Trade (OBoT) is looking for business leaders who want to make a difference in our region by advocating for policies, priorities and programs that foster a competitive business environment and help Ottawa businesses grow. OBoT is a member driven, impact focused, non-profit, non-partisan business association serving as the primary voice for business for Ottawa and the region.
The Board of Directors and committee members are responsible for setting the strategic vision, key policies, and economic priorities. The work of the Board is accomplished by engaging volunteers who work through committees and a professional staff team led by the CEO. They are uniquely positioned as the primary ambassadors of the Board of Trade, supporting the vision and strategic plan by representing the organization in their networks, contributing to advocacy and economic committees, attending events, engaging their colleagues, and making referrals.
We are seeking volunteers to serve a two-year term beginning in September 2021. The priority is to attract a high level, diverse and skilled group of individuals who have demonstrated characteristics aligned with our mission, vision, and values. We are committed to creating a diverse volunteer base including considerations of race, gender, age, size and sector of business, skill set and language. These individuals will be visionary, innovative, and eager to promote the strategic goals of the organization. We will be launching a new strategic plan in early fall which firmly commits us to the role of advocate, economic and business partner with a focus on supporting Ottawa’s economic agenda, city building and business growth. We will give preference to individuals who can demonstrate the desire, capability, and capacity to support these goals. All candidates must be a member in good standing or be willing to become one.
ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
- Established in 1857 and recently consolidated all Ottawa Chambers of Commerce to create one Board of Trade
- 1,000 members of all business size and sectors, over 100 volunteers and a staff team of seven
- Active participation with the Ontario/Canadian Chambers of Commerce who advocate at the provincial/federal levels
- Host several events including networking events and keynotes, summits, workshops and awards shows
- Primary focus is growing the advocacy and economic development work and helping businesses grow and be recognized
VOLUNTEER & LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS
- Act with honesty, loyalty, care, diligence, skills and prudence;
- Be committed to the vision and mission, and strategic priorities of the Ottawa Board;
- Be engaged and have the time to serve on the Board and committees which include monthly meetings and events;
- Be collaborative, strategic with an ability to express a business community perspective
- Demonstrate ability to take initiative, lead and be an open minded and respectful team member
- Possess skills and knowledge to support the Board in achieving its organizational strategies
NOMINATION AND ELECTION PROCESS
- If requested, engage in a meeting or call with the nominations committee to further explore your candidacy.
- The nominations committee will submit a slate to the Board of Directors by the end of August 2021.
- Members will be invited to vote for the new board members at the AGM currently scheduled for September 2021.
