Serving with Purpose
Serve with Purpose
Help Shape the Future of the Heart of Orléans
Make a lasting impact on one of Ottawa’s fastest-growing business communities.
Serving on the Heart of Orléans BIA Board of Management is an opportunity to use your experience, leadership, and passion to help shape the future of our district. As a volunteer board member, you’ll work alongside fellow business and property owners to strengthen our local economy, advocate for businesses, and help guide the strategic direction of the Heart of Orléans.
✔ Four-year term
✔ Approximately 8–12 hours per month
✔ Volunteer leadership opportunity
🌟 Why Serve?
Shape the Future
Help guide the long-term vision for one of Ottawa’s most exciting commercial districts.
Give Back
Support hundreds of local businesses while making a meaningful difference in your community.
Grow as a Leader
Develop valuable governance, strategic planning, and leadership experience.
Expand Your Network
Build relationships with business leaders, community partners, and municipal decision-makers.
Is Board Service Right for You?
You may be eligible if you are:
✅ A business owner within the Heart of Orléans BIA
✅ A commercial property owner within the BIA
✅ An appointed representative of a business or property owner located within the BIA
What Does the Board Do?
🧭 Strategic Planning
Help set the long-term vision for the organization.
💰 Financial Stewardship
Approve budgets and oversee responsible use of levy dollars.
📊 Governance
Develop policies and ensure legislative compliance.
🤝 Executive Leadership
Hire, support and evaluate the Executive Director.
📣 Advocacy
Represent the interests of businesses with government and partners.
🎉 Community Leadership
Support BIA initiatives and signature events throughout the year.
What We Expect From Board Members
📚 Come Prepared
Read meeting packages in advance and arrive ready for discussion.
💬 Be Engaged
Participate actively in meetings, committees and strategic conversations.
Be Present
Attend board meetings, committee meetings and major BIA events.
✔ Be Accountable
Follow through on commitments and meet agreed timelines.
❤️ Be Respectful
Work collaboratively while supporting board decisions and maintaining confidentiality.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities
➕ Duty of Compliance
Ensure decisions align with legislation, City by-laws and the BIA’s mandate.
➕ Duty of Care
Exercise sound judgment by preparing thoroughly, asking questions and making informed decisions.
➕ Duty of Loyalty
Always act in the best interests of the organization while avoiding conflicts of interest and protecting confidential information.
Time Commitment
Activity
Time Commitment
Board Meetings | Monthly • 1.5 hours |
Preparation | 1–2 hours |
Committee Meetings | As required |
Committee Work | 2–4 hours/month |
Strategic Planning | 2–3 sessions/year |
Signature Events | 6–8 annually |
Average commitment: 8–12 hours each month
What Makes a Great Board Member?
Instead of expecting every board member to be an expert in everything, we build a Board with diverse skills and experiences.
🧭 Strategic Thinking
📈 Business Leadership
💰 Financial Literacy
🤝 Relationship Building
📣 Communications
🏙️ Community Development
⚖️ Governance
🌎 Equity & Inclusion
❤️ Integrity & Accountability
We Invest in Our Board Members
Orientation
Learn about the BIA, governance, finances and strategic priorities.
Mentorship
Connect with experienced board members who can help you succeed.
Professional Development
Participate in governance education and strategic planning sessions.
Annual Evaluation
Continuous learning through board self-assessment and feedback.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Whether you’re a seasoned business leader or looking to contribute your skills in a new way, serving on the Heart of Orléans BIA Board is an opportunity to help shape the future of our community.