Board of Director

JOIN ACAO’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The African Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO) is seeking committed and community-minded leaders to join its Board of Directors.

ACAO is a charitable, Black-led, Black-serving and Black-focused umbrella organization working with more than 60 African and Black community associations across the Ottawa–Gatineau region. Through community partnerships, advocacy and programs, ACAO advances the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of people of African descent.

We are recruiting candidates for the following these vacancies:

1. Director – Finance and Audit

The successful candidate will strengthen the Board’s oversight of ACAO’s financial management, accountability and organizational sustainability.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Professional experience in accounting, finance, auditing, financial management or a related field
• Experience reviewing financial statements, budgets, forecasts, audits and internal financial controls
• Knowledge of financial risk management and fiduciary responsibilities
• Familiarity with charities, not-for-profit organizations, government-funded programs or grant compliance
• A CPA designation or comparable financial credential is an asset

2. Director – Governance

The successful candidate will support strong, transparent and accountable governance across ACAO.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience serving on a board of directors, governance committee or senior leadership team
• Knowledge of board governance, bylaws, policies, strategic oversight and director responsibilities
• Familiarity with Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, federal not-for-profit requirements or registered charity governance
• Experience with policy development, organizational risk, compliance, board evaluation or succession planning
• Legal, governance, public administration or nonprofit leadership experience is an asset

3. Director – Community Leadership / Member-at-Large

We also welcome applications from committed community leaders who can contribute broad knowledge, lived experience and practical expertise to ACAO’s Board.

Preferred qualifications and attributes include:

• Demonstrated commitment to ACAO’s mission, values and the African, Caribbean and Black communities we serve
• Experience in community development, social services, youth, seniors, housing, health, education, employment, communications, fundraising or public service
• Ability to provide strategic advice and exercise sound, independent judgment
• Strong collaboration, communication and relationship-building skills
• Willingness to attend Board meetings, serve on a committee and participate actively in ACAO initiatives
• Integrity, confidentiality, accountability and respect for collective Board decisions
• Previous involvement with ACAO, an ACAO member association or the broader community is a strong asset

What We Are Looking For

For all positions, professional expertise is important, but a demonstrated commitment to ACAO and the communities we serve is essential.

Candidates should:

• Support ACAO’s mission, vision and values
• Be committed to the advancement and wellbeing of African, Caribbean and Black communities
• Exercise sound judgment, integrity, confidentiality and independent thinking
• Work respectfully and collaboratively with fellow directors, staff, member associations and community partners
• Prepare for and participate actively in Board and committee meetings
• Disclose and appropriately manage actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest
• Be willing to contribute their knowledge, professional networks and leadership experience to ACAO’s continued growth

Previous involvement with ACAO, an ACAO member association or the broader African and Black community will be considered a strong asset.

ACAO is committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of diverse African, Caribbean and Black backgrounds, including women, youth, seniors, Francophones, newcomers, persons with disabilities and individuals with varied lived and professional experiences.

Board service is a volunteer governance position. Directors are expected to attend Board meetings, serve on at least one committee and participate in orientation and ongoing governance development.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A completed ACAO Board of Directors Recruitment Form right here on Collage
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae
• A brief statement of interest explaining their relevant experience, connection to ACAO or the community, and reasons for seeking Board service. Indicate the position you're applying for as well.

If you have questions, submit them to  board@acaottawa.com with the subject line:

Application – ACAO Board of Directors Questions

Application Deadline: August 10, 2026

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. References and conflict-of-interest disclosures may be requested as part of the selection process.

Help shape the future of an organization that is building stronger, more connected and more empowered African and Black communities.