Call for Independent Directors
Are you interested in being an independent board member?
The Firearms Safety Education Service of Ontario (FSESO) is a not-for-profit organization of firearms safety instructors. The FSESO is responsible for the delivery of the Canadian Firearms Safety Course in Ontario through a network of nearly 300 member instructors, through a memorandum of understanding with the Chief Firearms Officer of Ontario. We are currently seeking candidates to join our board of directors as an independent director.
BECOMING AN Independent Board Member
The board of directors consists of eight representatives, including six member instructors and two independent directors. Directors are elected for a two year term in accordance with the organization’s by-laws.
Board Responsibilities
The board is responsible for providing governance and oversight of the organization. Key responsibilities include:
- developing and monitoring the delivery of the strategic plan
- monitoring and managing organizational risks
- ensuring long-term viability of the organization
- establishing policies and providing guidance on strategic matters
The board of directors is a policy-making board. General management and supervision of operations is the responsibility of the Executive Manager, who reports to the board and oversees the administrative and operational staff of the organization.
Board meetings are typically held quarterly, and are a combination of virtual and in person. Meetings are typically held in June, September, December and March. Additional meetings can be called as required during the year to address specific situations.
Independent Director Qualifications
Candidates for the board should possess the following qualifications:
- Support the mission, purpose and values of the FSESO
- Strong strategic thinking, decision making and leadership skills.
- Highly collaborative, with strong communication, negotiation and problem solving capabilities
- Experience and expertise in the operation of not-for-profit organizations, and an understanding of corresponding legal, accounting and operations requirements
- Sound understanding of organizational governance practices and the role of a policy-making board
- Familiarity with strategic management, organizational operations, risk management, information technology and human resources practices
- Knowledge of the firearms industry, including familiarity with legislation, licensing requirements and firearms safety protocols would be considered an asset
Independent board members cannot be members of the FSESO.
Board membership is on a volunteer basis. Travel expenses incurred as a board member are reimbursed in accordance with FSESO policies.
Application Process
Independent directors are normally elected at the Annual Meeting held in June.
Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and resume using the form below. Prospective candidates who meet the organization’s qualifications can expect to be contacted in the spring to confirm their interest.
Independent Director Application Form
While all applications will be accepted, only qualified individuals will be contacted.
