Types of positions and functions

We make appointments to different types of positions that vary from agency to agency. This includes positions such as chairs, vice-chairs and members.

The functions of public appointees can include one or a combination of the following:

  • making decisions (adjudication)
  • providing strategic direction
  • making sure the agency works in the public interest
  • offering advice on your area of subject-matter expertise

Before applying for an advertisement, you should consider whether you have any real or perceived conflicts of interest.

To learn more about specific requirements, review the details of agencies and advertised positions.

Time commitment and meeting locations

Most appointments are part-time, based on the needs of the agency.

When applying for a public appointment, you need to consider if you:

  • are able to attend the meetings
  • have time outside of meetings to review materials and work with other appointees

Some agencies only accept appointees that live in the region they serve. In-person meetings may be held in communities across Ontario.

When you are not able to attend meetings, it can cause significant governance issues and prevent the agency from meeting its mandate. It means:

  • there are not enough members to form quorums for meetings (board-governed agencies) or hearing panels to adjudicate at administrative justice tribunals
  • boards are not able to schedule future meetings or hearings
  • boards are not able to form sub-committees around financial or governance oversight

You can find specific information on meeting locations and time commitments in the description of individual agencies.

Remuneration

While some appointments are paid, most are unpaid volunteer positions.

In some cases, agencies have legal authority to set pay rates.

You can see the details of appointee compensation on each agency’s page or on advertised positions.

Appointee remuneration ranges and rates are a matter of public record and are set out in the Agencies and Appointments Directive.

Appointment terms

Most appointments range from two to three years. The legislation that establishes an agency may dictate a different term length.

At the end of an appointment term, we do not have an obligation to reappoint people, but appointments can be renewed if they are approved by the minister and the premier.