Governance

Ensuring the independence of the Board of Directors

OBSI is overseen by an independent Board of Directors. A majority of the directors are from the community, having not been part of industry or government for at least two years. A minority of the directors are appointed from shortlists of nominees provided by industry bodies. The directors also comprise the voting membership of the organization.

Majority of members are Community Directors

Beyond the composition of the board, further important safeguards of OBSI's independence are in place. In addition to having at least a standard two-thirds majority on the board, a majority of Community Directors is required for key independence matters including the hiring and firing of the Ombudsman, the setting of the Ombudsman's compensation, the budget process, the Terms of Reference and the nomination of Community Directors.

The Governance and Human Resources Committee of the board searches for new independent board members, balancing diversity, geography and a variety of backgrounds and skills. Collectively, the directors have experience in business, law, consumer affairs, economics, community organizations, dispute resolution and public service.

All directors also conduct performance reviews with the chair at least once every two years.

Board meetings

The Board of Directors meets at least quarterly, and in addition has an annual strategic planning session. OBSI's fiscal year begins on November 1 and ends October 31 the following year.

Ombudsman decisions are independent from the board

Our governance structure also ensures the Ombudsman and OBSI's staff are independent and impartial from the board.

The Board of Directors does not look at specific complaints. The final decision concerning complaints rests with the Ombudsman. There is no appeal to the board, nor can the board influence the decisions of the Ombudsman. As a voluntary process where you have not given up any of your legal rights, there is also no appeal to a higher body.