Board Assessment

Individuals who are appointed to the CFSA boards are selected by the Minister to perform a significant role on behalf of the Ministry. As such, board members are accountable to the Minister.

Board assessments are conducted on an annual basis to enhance accountability and performance, within the governance model currently being used for CFSAs. Board assessment bridges into board development through the identification of learning needs for the entire board and individual board members. Board assessment also bridges into succession planning and board recruitment.

The desired outcomes associated with board assessments are as follows.

  • The board reviews and documents its practices to ascertain whether they align with the current Memorandum of Understanding and the Core Governance Policies.
  • The board identifies its strengths (including areas in which the board excels that might be shared as leading practices with other CFSA boards).
  • The board identifies opportunities for board growth, such as:
    • changes in existing practices and new practices;
    • training and development needs for the board as a whole, for individual board members, and for Co-Chairs;
    • skill sets and competencies that should be considered when filling board vacancies; and
    • gaps in governance policy.
  • The board, the Co-Chairs, and the CEO have an increased understanding of their respective roles and expectations.
  • Individual board members and Co-Chairs engage in a competency-based assessment of their performance that recognizes their achievements and assists with:
    • further development of their skills in governance;
    • reappointment recommendations; and
    • succession planning.
  • Interpersonal relations are strengthened between and among members of the board, the Co-Chairs, the CEO, and the Department.
  • The Minister receives information that provides confidence in the performance of the boards and assists with appointment and reappointment decisions.

Click on the following links to obtain the complete Board Assessment Guide or portions thereof.