Role Purpose

The Corporate Affairs & Governance Lead, reporting to the Manager of Corporate Affairs & HR, with a dotted reporting line to the CEO & Registrar, plays a pivotal role in ensuring effective governance and strategic support within CAO. This position leads the board governance function, supports the Corporate Affairs team in delivering organizational priorities, and provides executive and administrative assistance to the board and CEO & Registrar.

Key Responsibilities

Corporate & Board Governance (90%)

• Develop and maintain governance frameworks, policies, and procedures to support a strong governance function and effective decision-making.
• Leading board and committee workplans, including the updating, tracking, and communicating of items to board members and staff leads.
• Draft, review, and distribute board and committee meeting agendas and materials via the board portal (Diligent), ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
• Provide guidance on corporate governance best practices and ensure policy compliance during board and committee meetings.
• Record and finalize detailed minutes of board and committee meetings, emphasizing governance and policy decisions.
• Lead planning and compliance for the Annual Members' Meeting and related events.
• Manage the organization's policy and board manuals, ensuring regular updates in line with evolving legislation.
• Coordinate onboarding and offboarding of directors, emphasizing governance and policy familiarization.
• Ensure CAO adheres to requirements in the Administrative Agreement with the Ministry and the CAO bylaws, including reporting obligations.
• Serve as a liaison between the Board, CEO & Registrar, the executive leadership team, and external stakeholders, fostering clear communication and professional relationships.
• Support corporate governance reviews, and initiatives to enhance accountability and transparency.
• Advise during Board and Committee meetings on governance best practices and policy adherence.
• Assist in preparing corporate reports and presentations.
• Plan and execute Board meetings and events, managing logistics such as venue selection, catering, and on-site support.
• Special projects as assigned.

Executive Support to the CEO & Registrar (10%)

• Support the CEO’s office, ensuring that processes are streamlined and organized to enhance efficiency and support workflows.
• Independently schedule, track and prepare for CEO meetings and corporate initiatives with internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare reports, draft correspondence, and review materials for accuracy and consistency.
• Record meeting notes, track deliverables, and follow up on action items from Executive/ Management Team meetings.
• Collaborate with the Communications team to organize all-staff meetings and events, including preparing materials and presentations.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality in all matters related to the CEO’s office.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in corporate governance, business administration, law, public administration, or a related field.
• Certification in corporate governance is an asset (e.g., Governance Professionals of Canada (GPC.D) or Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD.D)
• Minimum 4–6 years of experience in regulatory or non-for-profit organizations with board governance responsibilities. corporate affairs, governance, or a similar role supporting board-level functions.
• Familiarity with using board portal systems (e.g., Diligent) for agenda and materials management.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep understanding of corporate governance principles and experience working with a board of directors and executive leadership.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and other relevant tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft precise minutes, policies, and reports.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret legislation, policies, and complex information.
• Professional demeanor and discretion when dealing with sensitive matters and high-level stakeholders.

Key Attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with directors, executives, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Proactive and resourceful, with a solutions-oriented approach to challenges.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with governance trends and best practices.