Wanstead Board of Directors Nomination Guide
Wanstead is governed by the board of directors which consists of an elected minimum of 7 and maximum of 9 directors serving three-year staggered terms. The board represents the interests of our member-owners and is responsible for the strategic direction of the co-op, governance, stewardship, leadership and monitoring performance.
The qualifications of each director shall be that they be at least eighteen years of age and that they be a member of the Co-operative or a director, officer, shareholder or member of a corporate member of the Co-operative.
Director Commitments and Expectations
Time Commitment
The board holds regular board meetings on the 3rd Tuesday of each month in the evening. There are 10 to 12 board meetings per year as we try to schedule meeting around typical farm work schedules. A typical board meeting lasts approximately 3 hours. There are also committee meetings that are scheduled with the committees respecting the schedules of the committee members. These meetings occur two to four times a year and the time commitments vary by meeting. Once per year, there is a full-day meeting to visit all the branches to review the assets of the company and to assist with determining capital expenditures.
Meeting Preparation
Each board member receives the materials to be covered in the board meetings in advance of the board meeting. This allows directors to review the material prior to the board meeting to ensure timely meetings and informed discussions/decisions.
Remuneration and Expenses
The director compensation is outlined in the By-Laws of the co-op. The remuneration includes:
- A per diem for time spent on co-operative business
- Travel costs, where applicable, to cover mileage to attend board and committee meetings
- Reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses relating to board service.
Nomination and Election Process
After review of the expectations of a director should you decide to let your nomination stand, you will need to submit a nomination form. Your form will be reviewed to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. Once it is determined you are eligible to be a director your nomination will be made public to the Wanstead Farmers Co-operative owners through the website. The election will be conducted through a vote by ballot at our Annual General Meeting. Your Candidate Position Statement that is provided on the Director Nomination Form will be shared verbally during the AGM election process.