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Opportunities for Canadians Institute (OCI) is a mission-driven organization focused on expanding economic, educational, and social opportunities for people across Canada. OCI also aligns with public opinion on many issues. The Institute works with community partners, policymakers, and stakeholders to develop practical solutions that address barriers to prosperity for instance. Through research, and dissemination of the same, it aims to inform evidence-based decision-making. Board members and advisors play a key role in aiding strategy, ensuring accountability, and strengthening the impact of the organization.

Mission: To educate the public and government, in the interests of Canadians.

Vision: To be one of the most influential think tanks in Canada and the largest by membership.

Slogan: Citizens join to secure their future.

Opportunities for Canadians is committed to analyzing and critiquing public policies at all levels of government for their impact on Canadians.

Our organization draws on its researchers and members to engage in meaningful and thoughtful dialogue with elected and appointed officials and other stakeholders about the key public policy issues and concerns facing Canada at home and abroad.

We also look at how the policies are developed and the influences, publicly acknowledged or not, that inform them.

Policies research areas that would be of interest to us include those on: better defence/security, better foreign affairs, better healthcare, more better/education, more/better businesses, more/better nonprofits, better infrastructure, better environment, more/better families, less/better immigration, better economy, more better technologies, better society, better democracy/government, etc.

A think tank is a not-for-profit research and education organization (we are also applying for charitable status), you don’t need to have experience with think tanks nor need to feel intimidated by something new to you, to apply.

Role Description

This is a hybrid volunteer board role based in Ottawa, ON, with a mix of on-site board and committee meetings and some work-from-home flexibility for preparation, research, and follow-up.

Board members and advisors will help support the organization’s strategic direction, and monitor performance. Day-to-day responsibilities include preparing for and attending board and committee meetings, potentially reviewing reports and proposals, and providing informed input on programs, partnerships, and risk management.

The role also involves supporting fundraising and stakeholder engagement efforts, building relationships with community partners, and representing the Institute at events and consultations. Board members and advisors are expected to collaborate closely with the leadership team, provide mentorship where appropriate, and uphold strong governance and ethical standards.

Time Commitment

There is a monthly time involvement of at least 4-8 hours. Board members are expected to attend board meetings. In addition, they may also attend relevant committee or working group meetings.

Qualifications

• Some foundation in Finance and related Analytical Skills to support budgeting, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability in Research and data-informed analysis to evaluate programs, policies, and impact.
• Experience with Fundraising, including donor relations, grant development, and partnership cultivation.
• Background in Marketing or communications to strengthen the organization’s visibility, outreach, and stakeholder engagement.
• Previous board, advisory, or senior leadership experience in nonprofit, public, or private sectors is an asset.
• Familiarity with Canadian social, economic, or public policy issues.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively in a diverse, mission-focused environment.
• Commitment to ethical governance, equity, inclusion, and the long-term success of Opportunities for Canadians Institute.

Board Member Responsibilities

Opportunities for Canadians Institute, Board of Directors plays a crucial role in leading, shaping and positioning of the organization within the Canadian political and economic landscape.

Board members may contribute to the following collective responsibilities of the Board:

• Prepare for and participate in board meetings
• Listen to others’ views, advocate their own, identify common interests and alternatives, and be open to compromise
• Support governance decisions once made
• Participate in the review of the organization’s mission and objectives and in the development of a strategic plan
• Help the board to monitor the performance of the organization in relation to its mission, objectives, core values and reputation
• Abide by the by-laws, and craft code of conduct, conflict of interest and other policies that apply to the board
• Participate in the approval the annual budget and monitor the financial performance of the organization in relation to it
• Help establish, review and monitor operational policies
• Participate in the management/evaluation of and assist the CEO
• Identify prospective board members and possibly help recruit them
• Participate in the evaluation of the board itself (annual board self-evaluation)
• Contribute to the work of the board as a member of a board committee
• Attend and participate in the Annual General Meeting
• Be an ambassador for the organization
• Keep informed about community issues relevant to the mission and objectives of the organization

Candidate Development and Support

Don't worry, you don't have to be familiar with all of the above collective board responsibilities to apply. If some of these responsibilities are not your forte other board members can pickup the slack.

Optional training provided.

We welcome applications from both experienced board members and individuals seeking to develop their governance, leadership, public policy, nonprofit, or strategic planning experience while contributing to an important public-interest mission.

Please send your resume along with a brief email explaining why you are a strong, motivated candidate for our Board of Directors. If you are interested in serving as an Advisor instead, simply indicate that when submitting your resume.

Looking forward to hearing from you.