The Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance) is pleased to share the call to recruit new Directors to the Alliance’s Board of Directors.
The application process is now open. There are vacancies to fill on the Board for election at the Annual General Meeting in September 2024. Terms will be staggered and can range between one (1) and three (3) years.
The number of vacancies is determined annually, and the necessary criteria to fill vacancies have been identified through the analysis of skillset and criteria established by the Board.
The Alliance continually strives to represent a diversity of voices, experiences, and perspectives within the organization. We encourage individuals from underrepresented communities to apply for these Board Director roles, in keeping with our commitment to principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. Candidates must submit their applications through the webform by May 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
Listed below are additional details related to the application and nomination process.
Process and Timelines
- Call for Nominations – April 16, 2024
- The Call for Nominations will be posted on the Alliance’s website, social media platforms, and the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) website.
- Nomination Submission Period: April 16 – May 15, 2024
- Due diligence check/Interview
- Selected candidates will undergo a due diligence check and be interviewed.
- Notification sent to successful candidates/Invite to Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- Successful candidates will be notified and invited to the AGM to stand for election.
- AGM – September 17, 2024
- Candidates will be presented to the Primary Membership of the Alliance for election at the AGM.
Qualifications and Expected Commitment
Qualifications:
The Nominating Committee is particularly interested in candidates with the following knowledge and expertise:
- Advanced research computing (ARC)
- Research data management (RDM)
- Research software (RS)
- Government relations and public policy
- Enterprise risk management
- Audit/finance (Chartered Professional Accountant qualification is an advantage).
- Artificial intelligence and cybersecurity
- Strategic planning/organisational development
- Legal expertise
- Bilingual (English and French)
The Nominating Committee is also particularly interested in candidates who are “independent”.
- A candidate is deemed “independent” where the person has no material relationship directly or indirectly with the Alliance. Specifically, that at any time within the last six (6) months the person was not a director or officer in any organisation that was materially funded by the Alliance and that the person has no substantial control in any of the Alliance funded programs.
- To seek clarification on independence status, potential candidates can contact the Alliance Board Secretary at [email protected].
Candidates should also ensure that they meet the following requirements:
- Commitment to the Alliance’s vision and values and an appreciation for ARC, RDM and RS components of the digital research infrastructure strategy.
- Strong government relations and public policy experience is an asset.
- Previous Board or executive experience in a research-based institution is an asset.
- Personal commitment to devote the time necessary to perform the responsibilities of a Board Director.
- Strong communication and collaborative skills.
Expected Commitment:
- New Director terms begin in September 2024.
- Directors must have the ability to serve for a term between one (1) year and three (3) years.
- Directors may be eligible for re-election at the Annual General Meeting at the end of the term.
- Attend four (4) Board meetings that take place each year – two (2) of which will be held in person within Canada and one (1) in conjunction with the Annual General Meeting.
- Able to commit the time and resources to serve on the Board, serve on one/two Board committees and represent the Alliance as required.
- This is a volunteer position – Directors will be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in performing their duties, including travel expenses.
How to Apply
Candidates can submit their application by completing the webform, including the attachment of your cover letter and resumé, by May 15, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Here are the application questions to help you prepare your responses.
The Alliance is strongly committed to equity and inclusion within the community and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women, members of racialized groups, people of colour, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ identified people.
We thank all applicants in advance, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
For more information about the role and nomination process, please contact the Board Secretary at [email protected].