Governance Specialist

Diabetes Canada / National Diabetes Trust

5d•CA$76,000 - CA$90,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Diabetes Canada is seeking a Governance Specialist to act as a trusted advisor to the senior leadership team and the Board of Directors for both Diabetes Canada (DC) and its affiliated social enterprise, National Diabetes Trust (NDT). This role supports the President & CEO of Diabetes Canada and the President & CEO of National Diabetes Trust. The Governance Specialist will ensure the seamless operation of the Boards and their Committees, act as the custodian of corporate bylaws and maintain corporate records, develop and manage a governance policy framework and inventory, facilitate the development of Board and Committee materials, oversee legal and regulatory compliance, and support an effective enterprise risk management approach. The National Office is located in Toronto, Ontario, with flexible work arrangements allowing for remote work with occasional in-office requirements. The hiring salary range is $76,000–$90,000 annually.

Requirements

3–5 years of progressive experience in corporate governance, board administration, or non-profit management
University or College degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Law, or a related field.
Ability to solve problems, take initiative when appropriate, and respond effectively to requests.
Ability to determine task priorities and organize workflow accordingly.
Demonstrated project management skills.
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to maintain confidentiality and meet deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written skills, including accuracy and ability to prepare accurate reports and correspondence for signature by the Board, CEO and SLT.
Team player but able to work independently.
Exceptional computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to Diabetes Canada’s mission, vision, and core values.
Must be legally eligible to work in Canada.

Nice To Haves

A designation such as the Chartered Secretary (ICSA) or Governance Professionals of Canada (GPC.D) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Organize, schedule, and prepare agendas and briefing materials for Board of Directors and committee meetings.
Develop and maintain an effective and up-to-date Board portal.
Support any time-limited Board committees by preparing resources, minutes, and draft reports.
Draft and maintain accurate corporate records, resolutions, and meeting minutes.
Coordinate Annual General Meetings (AGMs).
Assist in the recruitment, orientation, and ongoing training of Directors.
Support the execution of the annual Board Education & Development Plan for Directors.
Coordinate in-person Board and Committee meetings (5 for DC, 2 for NDT).
Stay current on governance best practices and incorporate them.
Review, update, and implement organizational bylaws and governance policies.
Ensure policies (e.g., Conflict of Interest, Code of Conduct, Confidentiality) meet current legislative and other requirements.
Administer Board self-evaluation tools and develop the annual board work plans.
Coordinate regular reviews of policies and governance tools, and ensure they are accessible on the Board portal.
Monitor and ensure adherence to statutory requirements for DC, NDT, and Diabetes Ontario.
Track filing deadlines, regulatory reporting, and funding agreement obligations.
Support the Board and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) in identifying and mitigating organizational risks.
Track whistleblower complaints for DC and NDT, and prepare a quarterly committee report.
Retain and organize significant documents and records for both organizations.
Manage document execution and seals.
Act as the primary point of contact for Directors, handling frequent communications and inquiries.
Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to advance each organization's mission and ensure transparent accountability.
Work with the President & CEOs to develop and monitor annual budget related to Board & Committee activities.

Benefits

Competitive compensation
Group benefits package including health and dental coverage, life insurance, disability coverage, Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Company-matched Pension/RRSP
$350/year healthcare spending account
Day-One Coverage for most group benefits
Access to a mental wellness app
Additional paid holidays beyond provincial statutory holidays
Paid office closure at the end of each year
Rewards and recognition platform (WorkTango)
Flexible work agreement that supports remote and hybrid schedules
35-hour work week