Leadership outreach and recruitment in portfolio organizations

The Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) is responsible for the governance of several Crown corporations, including the Canada Infrastructure Bank, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Canada Lands Company Limited, Jacques Cartier and Champlain Bridges Incorporated, Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority and the International Authority. The Minister also oversees federal governance considerations related to Waterfront Toronto—a tri-governmental organization—and is responsible for appointments to the National Housing Council.

These responsibilities include recommending candidates to the Governor in Council (GIC) for key leadership positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Chair, and members of boards of directors. For Waterfront Toronto and the National Housing Council, appointments are made directly through a Ministerial decision. IPI supports the Minister in carrying out these responsibilities, working closely with the Privy Council Office on GIC appointments.

The Government of Canada is committed to open, transparent and merit-based selection processes for GIC appointments in order to uphold public trust and the integrity of public institutions. These processes are designed to attract qualified and diverse candidates through public postings and rigorous assessment. The responsible Minister recommends candidates for appointment, with final decisions made by the GIC through an Order in Council. The Minister is also responsible for recommending appointments to certain positions that fall under their direct authority, consistent with the same principles of transparency, merit, and diversity.

In line with federal guidance for Crown corporations, it is important to ensure that Board members collectively possess the right mix of skills, experience, and perspectives to provide effective oversight and strategic direction. A well-composed Board supports sound governance, risk management, and accountability, enabling Crown corporations to fulfill their mandates in the public interest.

The Client’s portfolio currently faces approximately 7 vacancies and up to 25 upcoming term expiries within the year across the following organizations:
Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB),
Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA),
WDBA International Authority (IA),
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC),
Canada Lands Company Limited (CLCL),
Jacques Cartier and Champlain Bridges Inc. (JCCBI),
Waterfront Toronto (WT),
National Housing Council (NHC);
and also potentially candidates for a new governing authority for Build Canada Homes (BCH).