Chairperson, NAITSA Senate
Contract-basis
The NAIT Students’ Association (NAITSA) is seeking an experienced, impartial Chair to preside over meetings of the NAITSA Senate, our elected student governing body.
This opportunity is suited to someone with keen knowledge of parliamentary procedure, experience chairing formal meetings, and an approachable manner that connects well with student leaders.
Position Summary
The Chair facilitates orderly and efficient Senate meetings by applying NAITSA’s governing documents and Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised.
For many Senators and Executive Council members, this is their first experience with formal governance meetings. The Chair draws on their experience to offer patient guidance and set clear expectations, helping Senate members understand meeting procedures, build confidence, and participate effectively.
The Chair remains impartial, supports respectful discussion, and ensures members have a fair opportunity to participate. They also help members understand the distinction between governance and operations, and support the Senate in carrying out its oversight responsibilities, while respecting the Senate’s authority to deliberate and make decisions.
The Chair works closely with the Senate Secretary on meeting preparation and procedural matters, and with the Executive Director on Senate training. NAITSA uses an online board platform for meeting management and Zoom to host online Senate meetings.
Responsibilities
- Prepare for and chair online Senate meetings in accordance with NAITSA’s official Bylaws, governing documents, and Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised.
- Become familiar with NAITSA’s bylaws and other governing documents.
- Facilitate fair, respectful, and focused discussions, encouraging participation while maintaining impartiality.
- Guide members through motions, debate, and voting, explaining procedures clearly and patiently.
- Work with the Executive Director to deliver a Senate training session on parliamentary procedure, governance responsibilities, and meeting expectations.
- Collaborate with the Senate Secretary on meeting preparation and provide procedural guidance to Senators and Executive Council members as needed.
- Maintain confidentiality, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and attend all scheduled meetings and training sessions for the contract term.
- Remain available to consult with NAITSA Executive Council and Senators, and provide additional training throughout the year, as needed.
- The Chair receives an annual invitation to attend NAITSA’s Awards Night, where Senators are recognized for their contribution on the board.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- Demonstrated experience chairing formal board, council, committee, or comparable governance meetings.
- Strong working knowledge of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised and the ability to apply parliamentary procedure in real time.
- A sound understanding of board governance and the respective roles of a governing body and elected representatives.
- Strong facilitation skills, including the ability to manage competing perspectives and difficult discussions fairly.
- Clear communications skills and the ability to explain unfamiliar procedures without jargon.
- An approachable, patient, and respectful manner, with the ability to build rapport with students from varied backgrounds and levels of experience.
- Availability for scheduled meetings, training, preparation, and agreed consultation.
- Reliable internet access and a private workstation/computer with a camera and microphone suitable for chairing online meetings.
Assets
- Registered Parliamentarian certification or another relevant parliamentary credential.
- Experience working with student associations, post-secondary institutions, nonprofit boards, or elected bodies.
- Experience training, mentoring, or leading individuals and teams.
- Familiarity with online board platforms and virtual meeting facilitation.
Time Commitment and Contract Details
The annual schedule includes approximately two training sessions and ten (10) Senate meetings held between October and April. Meetings are scheduled for Wednesdays at 5:00 PM (MT).
Meeting length varies from approximately 1–3 hours, averaging 2 hours. Additional time is required for preparation, training, and occasional procedural consultation.
Meetings are held online using Zoom. A reliable computer is required; use of a mobile device to attend meetings is not permitted.
- Contract Term: October 2026 to April 2027. This is an ongoing role filled through annual contracts, with renewal subject to mutual agreement.
- Compensation: $250.00 per Senate meeting, inclusive of meeting preparation, payable on a monthly basis
How to Apply
Please complete the online application and upload PDF copies of your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, describe your experience chairing formal meetings and your approach to supporting participants who are new to governance.
Closing date: Open until a suitable candidate is selected.
Applicants will receive confirmation that their application has been received. We appreciate all applications. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Learn more about NAITSA at www.naitsa.ca