The Government of Alberta uses a competency-based process for the recruitment and appointment of board members to public agencies, boards and commissions (public agencies).
The centralized recruitment approach ensures effective, consistent, and efficient processes are being used to fill board vacancies, including matching skills, knowledge and competencies to the requirements of each public agency board. Competency-based recruitment and appointment processes directly contribute to public agencies fulfilling their mandates and increasing public confidence. By utilizing a competency matrix and identifying skill requirements, agency governance is strengthened.
Centralized recruitment
To further increase opportunities for efficiencies and consistencies across the government, the recruitment process for public agencies is centralized through the Public Agency Secretariat (PAS). See also, Centralized Recruitment Process (PDF, 649 KB).
Centralized recruitment ensures effective processes are in place in order for vacancies to be filled efficiently and with certainty that the appropriate skills and competencies are represented on boards.
Pre-appointment conflict screening
By assessing real or apparent conflict of interest of individuals before being appointed to a public agency, it is determined if a conflict impacts the decision to pursue the appointment or if it can be adequately managed. Where members are appointed with manageable conflicts, the board is made aware to make informed decisions about mitigation strategies. Where it is determined that a conflict cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level to the board or minister, the appointment should not proceed.
Board chairs and members should be familiar with the requirements under the Conflicts of Interest Act as well as the obligations for designated Senior Officials where applicable.
Competency Matrix and Definitions Library
The Competency Matrix and Definitions Library supports public agencies by contributing to effective recruitment activities, member evaluations and succession planning. Access the Matrix and Library.
A competency matrix tool includes provides a detailed table for public agencies to identify and evaluate the critical skills required for their organization and members. See also, Competency Matrix and Definitions Library Fact Sheet.
A competency definitions library supports the organization to create a common language and shared understanding of the requirements for effective board governance and member evaluation. The library is a collection of competency categories, specific skills and attributes, and corresponding definitions.