Director At Large - Volunteer Position

Title: Director At Large

Works collaboratively with: Board Chair

Classification: Volunteer, Contract

Hours: Approximately 8 hours per month

Accountable to: The Membership (Mohawk College students)

ROLE OVERVIEW

Director-at-Large is a volunteer member of the Mohawk Students' Association (MSA) Board of Directors responsible for providing strategic governance and oversight of the organization. Directors-at-Large help shape the long-term direction of the MSA by approving strategy, monitoring organizational performance, and ensuring accountability to students.

This role focuses on governance—not day-to-day operations. Directors do not manage staff or deliver programs. Instead, they provide independent oversight, make high-level organizational decisions, and hold the Executive Director and Student Executive Team accountable for achieving the Board's approved strategic priorities.

Provides governance oversight of:

• Organizational operations through the Executive Director
• Student advocacy through the Student Executive Team

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Governance & Strategic Leadership

• Act as a fiduciary of the MSA, exercising a duty of care, loyalty, and obedience to the organization
• Approve the strategic direction, major organizational priorities, and significant organizational decisions.
• Exercise financial stewardship by approving annual budgets, reviewing financial performance, and ensuring organizational sustainability.
• Ensure the organization operates in accordance with legislation, bylaws, governing policies, and sound governance practices.
• Monitor organizational performance through reports, key performance indicators, and outcomes rather than directing day-to-day activities.
• Participate in board committees, working groups, or governance reviews as assigned
• Contribute to board self-assessment, succession planning, and continuous governance improvement
• Respect the distinction between governance and management by focusing on strategic oversight rather than operational decision-making.

Board Participation

• Attend and prepare for all scheduled Board of Directors meetings and special meetings
• Review meeting materials in advance and engage in informed, constructive discussion
• Vote on motions and resolutions in accordance with board responsibilities and ethical standards
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive board and organizational information

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES

• Must be a current Mohawk College student in good standing or have been
• Interest in governance, organizational leadership, public service, or making a meaningful impact on the student experience.
• Ability to think strategically and make decisions in the best interest of the organization through curiosity and thoughtful questioning
• Strong ethical judgment, professionalism, and accountability
• Ability to commit approximately 2 hours per week to board responsibilities (approx. 8 hours per month) for board and committee meetings, reading and writing reports
• Prior governance or leadership experience is an asset but not required
• Ability to consider the interests of all Mohawk College students rather than representing individual groups or personal interests.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Day and evening availability as required
• Onsite at Fennell Campus for Board meetings; day and evenings as required
• Hybrid opportunities for committee work; asynchronous and synchronous

ACCESSIBILITY   

As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities the MSA will, upon the request of the candidate provide accommodation.  

Should you require accommodation at any point during the appointment selection process with the MSA please contact Mel Extance at melanie.extance@mohawkcollege.ca 

EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

The MSA seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially seeks applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply using the link provided, including a resume, a letter of intent (cover letter), and contact information with your application. Please use your Mohawk College email for applications. 

Letter of Intent Information

Ensure your letter addresses the following:

• Understanding of Governance
  Describe your understanding of the role and responsibilities of a member of the Board of Directors. How do you see the Board’s role differing from the day-to-day responsibilities of staff and management?
• Commitment to the Role
  Explain why you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors and how you will demonstrate your commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities of the role, including preparation, active participation, collaboration, and acting in the best interests of all students.
• Board Competencies and Contribution
  In your view, what qualities and competencies are essential for an effective Board member? Describe the skills, experiences, values, or perspectives you would bring to the Board and how they would contribute to sound governance and informed decision-making.

*Please only apply once per position and apply using your Mohawk College email.