The Canadian Race Relations Foundation is a federal Crown corporation mandated to raise public awareness of the causes and manifestations of racism in Canada. We work to strengthen the social fabric of our society by supporting, enabling and convening community groups and organizations through our grants, services and network of public, research and community partners.

The Chairperson leads the Board of Directors, which has overall stewardship of the corporation and provides strategic guidance, oversight, and governance for the Foundation to fulfill its mandate effectively and with integrity. The Chairperson presides over board meetings, facilitates consensus-based decision-making, and works with the Executive Director to support the organization’s strategic direction, accountability, and public credibility. The Board consists of the Chairperson and up to eleven directors appointed by the Governor in Council.

Further details about the organization and its activities can be found by following the Organization website link above.

Education and Experience

Please ensure that the information provided in your curriculum vitae and cover letter clearly demonstrates how you meet the following requirements:

• A degree from a recognized post‑secondary institution in a relevant field study such as social sciences, public administration, law, human rights, or a related discipline. An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience may be considered;
• Demonstrated experience serving on a board of directors or similar governance body;
• Experience providing strategic leadership at the senior executive level in a complex organization;
• Experience working on issues related to race relations, social inclusion, anti‑racism, human rights, equity, and/or social justice;
• Experience engaging with and bringing together diverse communities, including racialized or Indigenous communities, would be considered an asset;
• Experience in public policy, research, or public education related to social inclusion would be considered an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The following criteria will be assessed:

• Knowledge of the mandate, role, and responsibilities of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation;
• Knowledge of systemic racism, race relations, and equity issues in Canada;
• Knowledge of governance principles, including fiduciary responsibilities and oversight in a public sector or not for profit context;
• Knowledge of how to collaborate with government, civil society, and other organizations working the space of antiracism and social inclusion;
• Knowledge of public policy processes and the federal government context would be considered an asset;
• Knowledge of financial oversight, risk management, and accountability frameworks would be considered an asset;
• Superior communication skills, both written and oral;
• Strong leadership and facilitation skills, with the ability to guide effective Board deliberations and foster inclusive, respectful dialogue with management;
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build constructive relationships with diverse stakeholders;
• Ability to analyze complex issues and provide strategic direction;
• Ability to represent the organization credibly in public forums and media engagements.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages is preferred.

The Government of Canada will consider bilingual proficiency when assessing applicants. Your online profile must include your proficiency in speaking and understanding your second official language.

Personal Attributes

The following will be verified by references at a later date:

• Cultural humility and respect for diversity
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Tact and diplomacy
• Sound judgement
• Commitment to public service values

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Government of Canada is committed to providing a healthy and accessible workplace, and to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the population it serves. Appointees will be expected to promote and maintain a healthy, respectful, inclusive and harassment-free work environment.

Candidates who belong to one or more of the designated employment equity groups are encouraged to self-identify when applying. Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and women.

Eligibility Factors and Conditions of Employment

• All appointees must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders throughout the duration of their appointment.
• All appointees are subject to the Conflict of Interest Act. Public office holders appointed on a full-time basis must also submit to the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner, within 60 days of their appointment, a confidential report in which they disclose all of their assets, liabilities and outside activities.
• All appointees are subject to the Terms and conditions applying to Governor in Council appointees. They must uphold the highest standards of probity and are expected to demonstrate behaviours in the workplace that afford respect, equality and dignity to everyone they interact with at work at all times. The Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector outlines the values, principles and expected behaviours for public servants, including valuing diversity and creating workplaces free from harassment and discrimination. Governor in Council appointees are expected to uphold and respect these values and principles throughout their time in public office.
• Appointees must also respect the principles of any code of conduct that applies to the organization to which they are appointed.

• The appointee must be able to commit to an average of approximately 28 weeks (or 140 days) per year, including Board and Committee meetings, Executive Committee leadership, ex-officio service on multiple committees, preparation time, and required travel.
• The appointee must be willing and able to travel across Canada, as required.

A link to this notice will be placed in the Canada Gazette.

A list of qualified candidates may be established and may be considered for other appointment opportunities.

How to Apply

Candidates must submit their application package, including their curriculum vitae and a cover letter addressed to the Director of Selection Processes, Senior Personnel Secretariat, Privy Council Office, by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 14, 2026, via the Governor in Council Appointments website.

To learn more or if you require support or accommodation to submit your online application, please visit the How to apply page on the website. For alternatives to online applications, please visit the Application Assistance page.