Board Director (Volunteer Role)

About the Organization
Tourism Calgary is the official destination management organization (DMO) for Calgary. We promote the city locally, nationally, and internationally to attract visitors, conventions, sports, and cultural events while supporting a vibrant visitor economy that benefits all Calgarians.

Tourism contributes approximately $3 billion in annual visitor spending, driven by more than 8.7 million overnight visitors each year. Guided by our Business Plan, Tourism Calgary aims to grow Calgary’s visitor economy to $6B by 2035, positioning Calgary as a welcoming, dynamic, and globally competitive host city.

Governance Structure
Tourism Calgary is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors operating under a governance model. The Board is responsible for strategic oversight, fiduciary stewardship, and organizational accountability. The Board appoints and oversees the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who is responsible for day-to-day operations.

Standing Committees

• Governance & Human Resources
• Audit & Finance
• Marketing, Communications & Advocacy
  

Advisory Committees

• Calgary Sports & Major Events (CSME) Committee
• Meetings & Conventions Advisory Committee (MCAC)

Role Overview

Tourism Calgary is seeking qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives, sound judgment, and a commitment to advancing Calgary as a premier destination. Directors are appointed for an initial two-year term, with the possibility of reappointment in accordance with bylaws at the Annual General Meeting.

Board Directors act in the best interests of the organization and the broader community, providing strategic leadership, oversight, and advocacy rather than operational management.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and oversight aligned with Tourism Calgary’s mission and long-term goals
• Uphold fiduciary duties, including oversight of financial performance, risk management, and compliance
• Hire, support, and evaluate the CEO; participate in CEO succession planning
• Contribute to Board and committee deliberations through informed, independent judgment
• Act as ambassadors for Tourism Calgary and the visitor economy
• Adhere to the organization’s governance policies, including conflict of interest, confidentiality, and ethical conduct
• Serve on committees (e.g. Audit & Finance, Governance & HR, Marketing, Communications & Advocacy)

Time Commitment

Approximately 10 to 12 hours per quarter, including:

• Attendance at scheduled Board meetings, 4 times per year (2-3 hours per meeting, generally held during business hours)
• Attendance at an in-person 1-2 day annual strategic planning session
• Participation on 1-2 Board committees (e.g. Audit & Finance, Governance & HR, Marketing, Communications & Advocacy), 4-5 times per year per committee
• Preparation in advance of meetings, including review of materials and active participation in meetings
• Participation in ad-hoc meetings that are requested from time-to-time
• Attendance at Tourism Calgary corporate events; participation in stakeholder or community events is also encouraged.

Qualifications & Experience

Core Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Board governance (public, private, or non-profit)
• Finance, audit, or risk oversight
• Human resources or executive leadership
• Government relations or public policy
• Marketing, digital strategy
• Technology/AI/Innovation
• Communications and stakeholder engagement
• Tourism, hospitality, or destination development

A strong record of community involvement and the ability to commit the required time are essential.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic, systems-level thinking
• Willingness to ask thoughtful, constructive questions
• Independence, integrity, and sound judgment
• Collaborative approach and respect for diverse perspectives
• Commitment to serving the interests of Calgary and its visitor economy
• Professionalism, reliability, and discretion

Equity & Inclusion

Tourism Calgary values diversity of expertise, talent and opinion which creates an innovative and collaborative environment. We are committed to a respectful and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified individuals.

Application Requirements

If you are committed to playing a leadership role within our community, you possess the qualifications outlined herein, and are passionate about Calgary and helping it to become the ultimate host city, please consider submitting an application.

All eligible applications will be reviewing by the Tourism Calgary Nominating Sub-Committee and will recommend applicants to be presented to Tourism Calgary membership for selection as Nominated Directors for election at the Annual General Meeting on June 4, 2026.

Applicants may express their interest by forwarding a cover letter indicating their interest in the Tourism Calgary Board and outlining how they meet the requirements of this role, along with a current resume by applying at the following link. Questions about the application process may be directed to board@tourismcalgary.com.

Apply using the link here:
https://secure.collage.co/jobs/tourism_calgary/59734

Deadline for applications: February 27, 2026 at 12:00 PM