Nomination to the BAA Board of Directors

It will soon be time for the BAA to invite nominations for Members to join the Board of Directors.

We are aware that some of you may have considered standing in the past but are a little unsure about quite what is involved.  Below are some ‘frequently asked questions’ which may help you to decide to stand in the forthcoming elections.

Can anyone stand?

The position of Board Director is open to all full members of the BAA. You need to be nominated and seconded by a full member.

Do I have to be a Head of Department?

No.  However, being a member of the BAA board means that you will be asked to represent your profession. You will be asked to give your opinion on various professional matters and will be expected to work strategically within the team to develop professional standards now and into the future. For this reason the position of Board Director will probably be most appropriate to those who have a senior role within Audiology and who have managerial and other committee experience. However all members of the BAA are eligible to be nominated and if you feel that you would be able to contribute you are welcome to apply.

How much time will it involve?

There is an all day Board meeting 4 times a year and the full Board also attends Conference where we have the Annual General Meeting. In addition to this there is work related to any BAA teams that you are involved with. You need to ensure that you are able to obtain leave from work commitments to allow you attend meetings.

Will I get paid?

No.  The President position is financially covered on a part-time basis, the other Board Directors do not get paid for their work although reasonable travel expenses are covered.

How long is a term of office?

A term usually lasts for 3 years.

What do Directors do?

There are various teams that Board Directors either chair or participate in.  Job descriptions for each of the Board roles can be found on the BAA website.

Further to this, the Directors will be asked to review and comment on documents and policies that are both generated within the BAA and by external bodies.  Board Directors may be involved in ad-hoc working groups, depending on their specific interests and talents.

What is the benefit to being on the Board?

The profession needs strong leaders to take it forward, so by being a Board Director you are able to influence the direction of your profession in the future.  Board Directors are at the front line of information coming into the profession, this information is key to decision making within your own practice.

If you would like to stand for election look out for the call to apply which will be sent out later this month.

Best wishes,

British Academy of Audiology Board of Directors