Board of Directors Election Process in Social Clubs
In the United States and Canada, there are no set laws dictating how social clubs must conduct their board of directors elections. So, the good news is that gives your club a great deal of freedom. However, if you get a little confused, this article will give you run down on the best way to set up your election. While some social clubs use terms such as ‘Executive’ or ‘Management Committee’, for the purposes of this article the term ‘Board of Directors’ will be used.
Board of Directors
The board of directors is responsible for representing the interests of the members and leading the direction of the social club. They must also ensure that the bylaws are being upheld. Elections are held to determine who will be on the board. The number of positions is dependent upon the bylaws, but typically include a President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
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Who can be a member of the board?
This depends on your bylaws, but normally any member can run for the board. However, they must be in good standing with the club.
Nomination for the board of directors
Nominations are opened a few weeks prior to the election start date. Members can nominate themselves or be nominated by their peers. Some social clubs require members who wish to run to have a petition of at least ten other members nominating them. The nomination document and submission can be done off or online.
Terms of the Board of Directors
Again, this dependent on the bylaws. For social clubs, one year is customary.
Electoral Procedure
The bylaws should explain which voting methods are valid. POLYAS recommends keeping the bylaws open so as to ensure multiple voting methods are available as options. Voting can be done with paper ballots or show of hands in which members cast their votes at the AGM. Alternatively, try online voting to ensure that your members can vote no matter where they are. For more information about changing your bylaws, click here.
Voting Rights
All members can vote in the election, unless stated otherwise in the bylaws
POLYAS Tip: Looking to conduct your next election online? You might have to change your bylaws. Read more about bylaws and how to amend them here.
Advantages of an Online Board of Directors Election
Online voting is a convenient and cost efficient manner of organizing your next election. You cannot realistically expect your members to come to a specific location and vote if they are scattered across the country. Bring your election process into the 21st century by allowing your members to vote off their phones from anywhere in the world. Our election experts would be happy to provide you with more information.