Role Summary:

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County Branch (CMHA SCB) seeks a member of the Board of Directors in Barrie, ON. As a leading community-based mental health agency, CMHA SCB is committed to providing services and supports for individuals experiencing mental health and addiction issues, including problem gambling, in Simcoe County. Governing our organization is one of the most critical roles someone can play at CMHA SCB. That is why we recruit a variety of skill levels for every seat on the board.

What is the Job of Board Members? Effective Governance means ensuring that the appropriate process and structures are in place to direct and manage an organization’s operations and activities, and to ensure that they function well. The ultimate goal of good governance is to ensure the effectiveness, credibility and viability of the organization.

What will be expected of me as a Board Member? Board Members are expected to attend and actively participate in monthly board meetings (6 per year), and join at least one committee (Governance, Finance and Audit, Quality Risk and Asset Management) attending 4-6 meetings per year. Also, ad-hoc meetings and planning sessions may be required. In addition, Board Members monitor the strategic plan, business plan, and annual budget, and help make decisions that guide the organization’s progress. You will also participate in regular evaluation of the board’s performance.

We are seeking a leader with demonstrated expertise in finance and accounting to contribute strategic insight and strong financial stewardship to the organization.

Qualifications and Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of experience in finance, accounting, auditing, investment oversight, budgeting, financial planning, or financial strategy. Demonstrated financial literacy with the ability to interpret financial statements, assess financial risks and opportunities, and support informed decision-making. Proven experience with budget development, financial forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Strong knowledge of audits, internal controls, compliance, and risk management, preferably within the not-for-profit sector. Experience overseeing financial performance and contributing to organizational sustainability and growth. Experience serving in, or working closely with, a not-for-profit organization is highly desirable. A CPA designation is preferred. Desired Attributes: Strong commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical financial practices. Strategic thinker with the ability to balance short-term operational needs and long-term sustainability. Ability to provide independent financial oversight and contribute meaningfully to governance discussions. Strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex financial information to diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities of the Board Ensure the organization moves forward fulfilling its mission and vision. Monitor the CMHA SCB Strategic Business Plan for 2026-2031. Ensure that the CEO has the resources for CMHA SCB to fulfill its mission and to finance its programs. Provide financial oversight and accountability. Maintain effective governance of the organization to adhere to By-Laws, policies, procedures and objectives. Ensure legal and ethical integrity and accountability of the organization. Recruit and orient new board members and assess board performance. Select and appoint a CEO to whom responsibility for the management of CMHA SCB is delegated.

General Expectations of the Board Regularly participate in board meetings, committees and important related meetings. Make a serious commitment to participate actively in board and committee work. Stay informed about board and committee issues, prepare for meetings, and review and comment on minutes and reports. Get to know other board members and build collegial working relationships that contribute to consensus. Be an active participant in the board evaluation and planning efforts. Avoid any conflict of interest. Disclose all material facts and relationships, and refrain from voting when there is a conflict of interest. Maintain confidentiality. Participate in fundraising or special events.

Eligibility Criteria: Directors must be at least 18 years old. Undischarged bankrupts are ineligible to serve as Directors. Directors must be mentally competent and of sound mind and are ineligible if found otherwise by a court in Canada or elsewhere. Directors must be a resident of Simcoe County. A director is expected to commit the time required to perform Board and Committee duties. The minimum time commitment is likely 4 to 6 hours per month. Directors must fulfill the requirements and responsibilities of their position, for example, preparing for and attending Board and Committee meetings, upholding their fiduciary obligations to CMHA SCB and working cooperatively and respectfully with other board members. Directors must comply with legislation governing the agency, the agency’s By-Laws and policies, and all other applicable rules. Directors must sign a Declaration confirming their agreement to adhere to their fiduciary duties and board and agency policies. Director cannot be a spouse, child, sibling or parent or, or live in the same household with, an employee or is the spouse of a child, sibling or parent of an employee except by resolution of the Board. Must not be an excluded person. “Excluded Person,” means: Any employee other than the current Chief Executive Officer; and any individual who has been within the preceding five (5) year period an employee of the Corporation.

To apply to be a member of the CMHA Simcoe County Branch Board of Directors Submit a letter of interest along with your resume either directly through Indeed or email to hr@cmhastarttalking.ca. Please highlight past board experience, areas of interest pertaining to board work and any connection you have or may have had with other health care groups in the community. Please note that this is an unpaid, volunteer position. For further details, please contact boardgovenors@cmhastarttalking.ca.