The Board Chair is responsible for the overall leadership and effective performance of the board.

Appointment

The Board Chair is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and represents the BC Housing Board of Commissioners in its accountability to the Minister responsible for Housing.

Role

The Board Chair is responsible for the overall leadership and effective performance of the Board. The Chair ensures the Board is organized properly, functions effectively and meets its governance obligations and responsibilities. In performing this role, the Chair works closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Corporate Secretary, and supports effective relations with Government and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities

Board Operations and Performance

  • Ensure the Board is responsive to its governance obligations and responsibilities to BC Housing, Government and other stakeholders.
  • Chair meetings effectively to support a culture of active and constructive board engagement, ensure appropriate issues are addressed, build consensus and develop teamwork within the Board.
  • In consultation with the Board and the Chief Executive Officer, recommend the necessary committees, their terms of reference and the appointment of Committee Chairs and members to the Board for approval.
  • Maintain liaison and ongoing communication with Commissioners and Committee Chairs to co-ordinate input and viewpoints.
  • Establish the frequency of Board meetings and review the frequency from time to time, as considered appropriate or as requested by the Board.
  • In conjunction with the Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Secretary and Committee Chairs, ensure the coordination of Board meeting agendas, reports, briefing packages and related events to support good discussion and decision-making.
  • Through the Governance and Human Resources Committee, ensure that the size and composition of the Board is reviewed and assessed, and make recommendations to Government as required. Also ensure that Board and Commissioner performance are reviewed to identify education and learning opportunities that will support effective governance.
  • Oversee all matters with respect to conflicts of interest, should they arise.

Working with Management

  • Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and management.
  • Build and maintain a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive Officer to support effective strategy, accountability and communications with regards to management.
  • Provide counsel and advice to the Chief Executive Officer as required.
  • Ensure BC Housing’s strategies, plans and performance are presented to the Board.
  • Through the Governance and Human Resources Committee, ensure that all matters pertaining to Chief Executive Officer performance planning and evaluation, employment terms and succession are carried out.

Relations and Communications

  • Work with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure effective relationships with Government, the Minister and stakeholders.
  • Acts as the primary spokesperson for matters related to the Board when requested by the Minister.
  • In consultation with the Chief Executive Officer, ensure the Board is appropriately represented at official functions and meetings as required.