Call for Applications

Seeking candidates to represent the Ontario forestry sector--both workers and managers are encouraged to apply. 

Additionally, WSN supports equity, diversity, and inclusion in its recruitment and welcomes applications that are reflective of this goal. 

Make a difference: Join the Voluntary Board of Directors at Workplace Safety North

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that will allow you to help guide the health and safety of Ontario’s mining, forestry, pulp and paper, printing and converting industries? Do you have vision and commitment? 

The organization

An independent not-for-profit organization, Workplace Safety North (WSN) is a leading provider of health and safety services including training, consulting and rescue services for the mining, forestry, pulp and paper, printing and converting sectors.

As one of the four designated health and safety associations in Ontario, businesses call upon WSN for expert advice and information, classroom and online training programs, on-site consultations, health and safety audits, industrial hygiene testing, ergonomic assessments, and specific problem-solving.  WSN believes illnesses and injuries can and must be prevented, and its mission is to be a force for positive action – anticipating and responding to the greatest needs of clients, and bringing together partners, members, and diverse communities to build safer, healthier and stronger workplaces. 

The Board

WSN is governed by a competency-based, volunteer Board of Directors and receives valuable input from volunteer advisory committees. The Board reaches across Ontario’s prevention system to foster effective stakeholder alliances and serve as health and safety advocates for Ontario workplaces.  

The benefits

Investing your time and expertise with the WSN Board of Directors offers a rewarding experience and invaluable leadership opportunities for the right volunteer. This role enables companies to play a significant part in shaping and enhancing the visibility of prevention as a key component of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Your role

WSN values a Board that is inclusive (gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, cultural needs, visible minority, and persons with special needs) and representative of the workplaces, sectors, and communities we serve. 

Ideally, we seek candidates that represent our forestry sectors in either worker or management roles.

Three Board of Director positions for one three-year term (2025-2028).

We are further seeking a candidate with experience in one or more of the following areas:

  • Financial/Accounting
  • Legal
  • Human Resources
  • Information Technology
  • Serving on Not-for-Profit Boards
  • Government Relations 
  • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Ontario Mine Rescue Volunteer
  • Public Relations

Your attributes

  • Integrity and high ethical standards
  • Intellectual capacity for conceptual and strategic thinking
  • Ability to cut through complex issues and ask incisive questions
  • Independent judgment
  • Candour and the willingness to table difficult issues
  • Willingness to act on and be accountable for decisions
  • The interpersonal skills to work collegially within and outside WSN, and to express views in a way that is both challenging and supportive
  • Commitment to prepare for and attend meetings on a regular basis   

Time Commitment

Successful candidates will be nominated at the next Annual General Meeting in November for a term of three years. Directors are expected to regularly attend Board meetings, participate on committees, and attend Board Orientation meetings for new directors.

  • The Board meetings are scheduled from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (4 hours each, typically four meetings annually)
  • The Subcommittee meetings (virtual) are scheduled for 1.5 hours each, typically three meetings annually.  Specific sub-committees may host special meetings to address pressing matters.

Preparation time is not included.  All documents will be available five days in advance of the meetings.

Please note that this is a volunteer role; no remuneration is offered.  Travel and other business expenses are reimbursed, if required, in accordance with established guidelines. For additional information, you’re encouraged to review About WSN.

Please take a moment to review the WSN Board Conflict of Interest Policy.

Interested applicants are requested to submit a WSN Board Recruitment Expression of Interest and résumé before Friday, January 24, 2025 via email to: lorrainechampagne@workplacesafetynorth.ca. If you have any questions, you can reach Lorraine Champagne at 705-498-1420.

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age.