Board Legal Relative Position Description
Position Title:
Board Legal Relative (Board Secretary)
Overview:
The Board of Legal Relative is a key figure within the organization, contributing to the smooth functioning of the board and ensuring the accuracy and cultural integrity of board records. This role plays a vital part in supporting effective governance and leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Cultural Leadership
a. Uphold and promote Indigenous cultural values and traditions
b. Provide culturally informed leadership in decision-making processes.
2. Board Oversight
a. Attends all board meetings, actively participating in discussions and decisions.
b. Serve on the executive committee if established, offering insights on organizational strategy.
3. Record Keeping
a. Ensure the safety and accuracy of all board records, preserving the cultural essence of our community.
b. Take meticulous minutes during board meetings or review minutes if assigned to a staff member.
4. Leadership in Absence
a. Assume the Chair's responsibilities in the absence of the Board Chair Relative, Chairelect, and Board Governance Relative (Vice Chair), ensuring continuity in leadership.
5. Meeting Notices
a. Provide timely and culturally sensitive notice of board and committee, if any meetings, when required, fostering transparent communication.
Qualifications:
• Demonstrate commitment to and understanding of HAFN’s mission and vision.
• Demonstrate curiosity, commitment to, and understanding of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Commitment to grow one’s leadership skills and use them to serve the organizations.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Previous experience in or willingness to learn record-keeping skills and administrative roles.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with board members and staff.
Term:
The Board Legal Relative holds a 2-year term and may serve up to three terms, totaling 6 years. Term renewal is contingent on performance evaluation by staff and other Board Members, with the potential for reappointment.
How to Apply:
Board candidates can be nominated by staff, Advisory Council, or existing Board members, and they are required to complete the application process. Alternatively, interested candidates can apply using the application available on the organization's website and newsletter.
Things to Consider:
• Board positions are selected through a majority vote of existing board members and staff after processing objections.
• In case of multiple nominees, the vote is between them; if only one nominee, the vote is between that nominee and continuing the search for a better fit.
• A talking circle can be initiated by staff, Advisory Council, or Board members to address any Board Member’s behavior deviation from the organization's mission, purpose, or Core Values, potentially leading to removal.
• Board members can take a "leave of absence" for up to 5 months, and a temporary Board structure may be considered during this period.
• Board Members can resign with three months' notice, and exceptions may apply.
• Board Members who have completed their terms may be considered for the Advisory Council with Board approval.
Board Governance Relative Position Description
Position Title:
Board Governance (Board Vice Chair)
Overview:
The Board Governance plays a crucial role within the organization, actively contributing to effective governance and leadership. This position supports the Board Chair in fostering collaboration, ensuring cultural integrity, and championing the organization's vision and mission.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Cultural Leadership
• Uphold and promote Indigenous cultural values and traditions.
• Provide culturally informed leadership in decision-making processes.
2. Board Oversight
• Attend all board meetings, actively engaging in discussions and decision-making.
• Serve on the executive committee if established, providing valuable insights on strategic matters.
3. Special Assignments
• Carry out special assignments as requested by the Board Chair, contributing to specific projects and initiatives.
4. Leadership in Absence
• Understand the responsibilities of the Board Chair and be capable of performing these duties in the Chair’s absence, ensuring continuity in leadership.
5. Board Leadership
• Participate as a vital part of the board leadership, collaborating with fellow leaders to drive the organization's mission forward.
Qualifications:
• Demonstrated commitment to and understanding of HAFN’s mission and vision.
• Demonstrated curiosity, commitment to and understanding of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Commitment to grow one’s leadership skills and use them to serve the organizations.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Willingness to actively engage in board meetings and take on special assignments.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with board members and staff.
Term:
The Board Governance holds a 2-year term and may serve up to three terms, totaling 6 years. Term renewal is contingent on performance evaluation by staff and other Board Members, with the potential for reappointment.
How to Apply:
Board candidates can be nominated by staff, Advisory Council, or existing Board members, and they are required to complete the application process. Alternatively, interested candidates can apply using the application available on the organization's website and newsletter.
Things to Consider:
• Board positions are selected through a majority vote of existing board members and staff after processing objections.
• In case of multiple nominees, the vote is between them; if only one nominee, the vote is between that nominee and continuing the search for a better fit.
• A talking circle can be initiated by staff, Advisory Council, or Board members to address any Board Member’s behavior deviation from the organization's mission, purpose, or Core Values, potentially leading to removal.
• Board members can take a "leave of absence" for up to 5 months, and a temporary Board structure may be considered during this period.
• Board Members can resign with three months' notice, and exceptions may apply.
• Board Members who have completed their terms may be considered for the Advisory Council with Board approval.
Board Financial Relative Position Description
Position Title:
Board Financial Relative (Board Treasurer)
Overview:
The Board Financial Relative holds a pivotal role within the organization, overseeing financial matters with a commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. This position contributes to the effective governance and financial health of the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Cultural Leadership
• Uphold and promote Indigenous cultural values and traditions.
• Provide culturally informed perspectives in financial decision-making.
2. Board Oversight
• Attend all board meetings, actively engaging in discussions related to financial matters.
• Serve as the chair of the finance committee if one exists, leading initiatives to ensure sound financial management.
3. Financial Expertise
• Understand financial accounting for nonprofit organizations, contributing valuable insights to financial discussions.
4. Financial Review and Action
• Manage, alongside the finance committee if one exists, the board's review of and action related to financial responsibilities.
5. Collaboration with Leadership
• Work with the Chief Executive and Board Governance Relative to ensure timely availability of appropriate financial reports to the board.
6. Budget Presentation
• Present the annual budget to the board for approval, outlining financial priorities and objectives.
7. Audit Oversight
• Review the annual audit and address board members' questions about the audit, assuming the responsibilities if there is no audit committee.
Qualifications:
• Demonstrate commitment to and understanding of HAFN’s mission and vision.
• Demonstrate curiosity, commitment to, and understanding of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Commitment to grow one’s leadership skills and use them to serve the organization.
• Expertise in financial accounting for nonprofit organizations.
• Previous experience in financial management or accounting roles.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with board members and staff.
Term:
The Board Financial Relative holds a 2-year term and may serve up to three terms, totaling 6 years. Term renewal is contingent on performance evaluation by staff and other Board Members, with the potential for reappointment.
How to Apply:
Board candidates can be nominated by staff, Advisory Council, or existing Board members, and they are required to complete the application process. Alternatively, interested candidates can apply using the application available on the organization's website and newsletter.
Things to Consider:
• Board positions are selected through a majority vote of existing board members and staff after processing objections.
• In case of multiple nominees, the vote is between them; if only one nominee, the vote is between that nominee and continuing the search for a better fit.
• A talking circle can be initiated by staff, Advisory Council, or Board members to address any Board Member’s behavior deviation from the organization's mission, purpose, or Core Values, potentially leading to removal.
• Board members can take a "leave of absence" for up to 5 months, and a temporary Board structure may be considered during this period.
• Board Members can resign with three months' notice, and exceptions may apply.
• Board Members who have completed their terms may be considered for the Advisory Council with Board approval.
Board Chair Relative Position Description
Position Title:
Board Chair Relative (Board Chair)
Overview:
The Board Chair Relative plays a pivotal leader within the organization, embodying the values and principles that guide our community. This position is entrusted with fostering collaboration, ensuring effective governance, and championing the vision and mission of our organization.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Cultural Leadership
• Uphold and promote Indigenous cultural values and traditions
• Provide culturally informed leadership in decision-making processes.
2. Board Oversight
• Lead both Board and executive committee meetings, if any, fostering constructive and inclusive discussions.
• Work in partnership with the Chief Executive to ensure the implementation of board resolutions.
3. Special Meetings and Appointments
• Call special meetings when necessary to address specific issues.
• Appoint all committee chairs and, in collaboration with the Chief Executive, recommend individuals to serve on committees.
4. Agenda Preparation
• Assist the Chief Executive in preparing board meeting agendas, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
5. Orientation and Recruitment
• Assist the Chief Executive in conducting new board member orientation.
• Collaborate with board members or governance committee, if any, to recruit new board members.
6. Executive Leadership Collaboration
• Oversee searches for a new Chief Executive, ensuring a thorough and culturally sensitive process.
• Coordinate the Chief Executive’s annual performance evaluation in partnership with the board.
7. Alternate Spokesperson
• Act as an alternate spokesperson for the organization, representing its values and goals.
8. Performance Assessment
• Periodically consult with board members on their roles and assist them in assessing their performance.
• Collaborate and implement ideas to enhance board member engagement and effectiveness.
Qualifications:
• Demonstrate commitment to and understanding of HAFN’s mission and vision.
• Demonstrate curiosity, commitment to, and understanding of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Commitment to grow one’s leadership skills and use them to serve the organizations.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Knowledge of governance best practices and legal requirements for nonprofit organizations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with board members and staff.
Term:
The Board Chair Owl holds a 2-year term and may serve up to three terms, totaling 6 years. Term renewal is contingent on performance evaluation by staff and other Board Members, with the potential for reappointment.
How to Apply:
Board candidates can be nominated by staff, Advisory Council, or existing Board members, and they are required to complete the application process. Alternatively, interested candidates can apply using the application available on the organization's website and newsletter.
Things to Consider:
• Board positions are selected through a majority vote of existing board members and staff after processing objections.
• In case of multiple nominees, the vote is between them; if only one nominee, the vote is between that nominee and continuing the search for a better fit.
• A talking circle can be initiated by staff, Advisory Council, or Board members to address any Board Member’s behavior deviation from the organization's mission, purpose, or Core Values, potentially leading to removal.
• Board members can take a "leave of absence" for up to 5 months, and a temporary Board structure may be considered during this period.
• Board Members can resign with three months' notice, and exceptions may apply.
• Board Members who have completed their terms may be considered for the Advisory Council with Board approval.