Council of Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists

Department

Authority

Remuneration

Purpose:

This Council will ensure that persons working in this health profession have the appropriate academic credentials and competencies for entry to practice.

Structure:

The composition of the Council shall reflect the cultural, ethnic, and regional diversity of the province.

 The Council consists of: 

• four directors elected from and by the practitioners in accordance with the by-laws
• two directors appointed by the Minister who are not optometrists and who are suitable to represent the public interest

Competency Profile:

Diversity in the backgrounds, skills and experience of appointed Board members can enhance the effectiveness of a Board by bringing a wider range of perspectives and knowledge. Examples may include: 

• Knowledge of the Optometry Act, 2012
• Ability to think strategically and engage in future-oriented discussion and planning
• Financial expertise/literacy/technological competency
• Ability to serve the public in a manner that protects and serves the public interest
• Familiarity with the principals of good governance, including accountability, transparency and ethical conduct
• Leadership skills that foster a diverse and respectful environment
• Backgrounds: health care, public relations, governance, human resources, legal expertise

Qualifications:

The following attributes are important considerations in selecting members: 

• Expressed interest in health care
• Previous board experience
• Knowledge of the optometry profession
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Appreciation of the responsibilities to the public
• Flexible, responsive and willing to consider others’ opinions
• Capable of a broad perspective on issues
• Ability to listen and work as a team member
• No direct or indirect conflict of interest
• Strong reasoning and conflict resolution skills
• Effective communication skills (written and oral)
• Policy development experience
• Leadership qualities

Time Commitments:

Members of this Board should be available to meet at least two to three times per year, plus any additional meetings and teleconferences as required.

Term:

A person appointed by the Minister holds office for a term of three years and is eligible to be re-appointed. Where a person appointed by the Minister holds office for a period of nine consecutive years, the person is not eligible for appointment as a member of the Council until the expiration of 12 months from the end of the year in which they were last a member.

Where the term of office of a person appointed by the Minister expires, they will continue to be a member of the Council until re-appointed or replaced.

Vacancy Profile:

The Council of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists is seeking to fill two public interest representative positions. Expressions of interest are being sought from individuals who possess the background, experience and skill set identified in the board profile above and who can bring unique perspectives to the table. Consideration will also be given to a variety of demographic factors to ensure the board is representative of the population they serve.