Brief Description:

Volunteer Opportunity - Firefighters without Borders
Board of Directors, Board Secretary

Are you a passionate corporate governance professional with an interest in Fire and Emergency Services? Firefighters Without Borders is looking for a savvy leader to join our volunteer Board of Directors to serve as Board Secretary and head up the Board Nominating and Governance Committee.

Firefighters Without Borders is a not-for profit registered Charity providing training and support to fire departments in Canada’s remote and northern communities and around the world. We are currently seeking a professional with experience in corporate governance to join our Volunteer Board of Directors.

Vision
A world where first responders are empowered to save lives.

Mission

Our mission is “to protect life, property & the environment in communities around the world by providing professional training, education, resources and support.”

We believe that preventing fire from happening in the first place is a proactive approach for community safety. Some fire departments do not have the resources to deal effectively with any emergency, so a strong public education and fire prevention program is a key program delivered by Firefighters Without Borders. Programs relating to technical rescue and vehicle extrication are also a key component of our program delivery. Programs are delivered by fire personnel who understand that skills transferability leads to strong relationships and confidence for fire departments who are struggling to work safely in varied and sometimes desperate conditions.
To learn more about Firefighters Without Borders, please visit:
http://firefighterswithoutborders.org

Commitments:
Two-year term, with the possibility of a renewal (subject to Board and Member approval).
Willingness to devote an average of 10 hours per month above and beyond monthly Board meetings.
Willingness to serve as Chair of the Board Nominating and Governance Committee.
Willingness to participate on other Board Committees.

Board Member Responsibilities:
A Director is fully informed on organizational matters and participates in the Board’s deliberations and decisions in matters of policy, finance, risk management and advocacy. He/she serves in a volunteer capacity without remuneration.
The Director shall be required to:
Understand the purpose, policies and programs of the organization and actively commit to participate in the affairs of the organization.
Evaluate and approve, as appropriate, policy and other recommendations made by other Directors on the Board and its committees.
Attend all board meetings and be prepared to engage in meaningful debate, including reviewing the agenda and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings.
Ensure compliance with Board-approved policies.
Be informed of and strive to meet all applicable legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
Participate in the development of Firefighter Without Borders’ strategy, organizational plan and annual reviews.
Approve the annual budget, audit reports and financial statements.
Serve as Chair of any Board Committee created to deliver on the Director’s specific mandate.
Participate in other Board Committees as a member.
Participate in Firefighters Without Borders fundraising and special events.

Specific Responsibilities of the Board Secretary:
Safe-keep copies of the organization’s bylaws, Board policies, minutes of meetings of the Board and General Members meetings.
Maintain register Board members, officers, Committee chairs, and General Members.
Notify Board Members and General Members of meetings, keep records of attendance and ensure that there is quorum at all meetings.
Keep accurate minutes of meetings, record all motions and decisions of meetings and distribute copies of minutes to Board Members and General Members promptly after respective meetings.
Keep records of critical Board correspondence.
Sign Board minutes and corrections to confirm their accuracy.
File the annual return, amendments to the bylaws and other notice requirements and incorporating documents with Corporations Canada and the Charities Directorate.
In the absence of the President and Vice-President, chair Board meetings.
Serve as Chair, Nominating and Governance Committee to identify suitable Board Members for appointment to the Board.

Skills:
Senior level experience in Board Governance. Previous board experience is required.
Ability to recruit and lead a team of volunteers / resources to serve on the Nominating & Governance Committee, as needed.
Ability to lead strategic planning sessions.
Experience working in a volunteer-based not-for-profit organization.
Knowledge of and experience in firefighting equipment and training would be an asset.
Passionate about making positive change in the community.
Able to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Willingness to contribute 10-12 hours/per month to contribute to a working Board.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, submit a résumé and cover letter outlining your interest and experience to:
Sonya Santolin
Director and Board Secretary, Chair of the Nominating & Governance Committee
Firefighters Without Borders
sonya@firefighterswithoutborders.org

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