Pursuing Effective Governance in

Canada’s National Sport Community

June 2011

Governance

is thesystemby which

organizations

are

directed and

managed.

expectationsauthority

Governance relates to

performance

legalrequirements.

and

definingdelegating

verifying

adhering to

Why does governance matter to sport organizations?

• Complex environment

• Demands and expectations of membership, stakeholders and funders

• Fundamental to organizational success

Why does governance matter toSport Canada?• Provides basis for accountability to Canadians

• Required as part of significant public investment

• Enhances the Canadian sport system

is about people:

athletescoachesofficials

participants

Becau

se

ultim

atel

y,

sport

Canad

ian

Governance Principles

• Acting in the best interests of the organization

• Guardians of the organization, providing leadership, vision and a culture of integrity

• Regularly reviewed statements of vision and mission

• Regular reference to guiding values

• Continuous reliance on a strategic plan

• Resources aligned with strategic priorities

• Integrated risk assessment in decision-making processes

• Clearly differentiated roles for the board and management

• Strong, collaborative relationship between the board and management

• Policies, systems and processes in place to guide operations

• Relevant committees in line with strategic priorities

• Comprehensive financial accounting system

• Finance and Audit Committee operating on behalf of the board

• Regular board review of the organization’s financial position

• Compliance with the obligations of the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporation Act (NPCA)

• Orientation and ongoing training provided to directors

• Performance evaluation and plans for improvement

• Responsibility for welfare of staff

• Succession planning and nomination procedures

• Communication and direct engagement with members and stakeholders

• Effective partnership-building

• Codes of conduct

• Protection and enhancement of organization reputation and credibility