About BBI

The Board of Directors

Board of Directors Terms of Reference

The Board of Directors is responsible for guiding the strategic agenda of the BBI in meeting its responsibilities for "a vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community."

The primary function of the Board is to determine (governing) policies with respect to the organization. That includes administration and operation of the BBI, and ensuring BBI business affairs are conducted in accordance with good governance practices.

The Board is responsible for the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as well as the determination of the terms and conditions of employment of the CEO. The BBI's CEO is responsible for the general management and direction of the BBI including policies, programs, and services of the BBI, the business affairs of the BBI, and other matters that may be delegated to the CEO by the Board.

The Board, through its own processes such as meetings, committees, and thorough drafting of governing policies, "steers and guides the strategic directions and approves the priorities and objectives set by the initiative."

The Board evaluates the performance of the BBI and its stated objectives by setting the governing policies and strategic planning. While policies may originate from within the organization, it is the Board that has the ultimate power to adopt and require adherence to Board (governing) policies. Strategies for implementation of the policy, i.e. the way that policies are translated into action, are the responsibility of the professional staff of the BBI.

The 2008 - 2009 Board of Directors

Cassandra Dorrington
Chairperson
Vale & Associates, Halifax

Joe Parris
Vice Chair
Canada Revenue Agency, Sydney

Greg Browning
Treasurer
Royal Bank of Canada, Halifax

Shirley Robinson-Levering
Secretary
Community Enhancement Association, Truro

Rustum Southwell
Ex-Officio
Black Business Initiative, Chief Executive Officer

Pat Ryan
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer NSBI

Dr Andrews Oppong
Dalhousie University

Barbara Ann Simmons
Community Liaison/Diversity Services for the RCMP

Milton Williams
M&A Wood Fuel Services, East Preston

Jocelyn Dorrington
Chignecto-Central Regional School Board, Truro

Candace Thomas
Stewart McKelvey Stirling Scales, Halifax

Robert Browning
Bell/Bell Aliant, Halifax

RESOURCE MEMBERS

Mike Hayes
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Halifax

Brian Watson
NS Office of Economic and Rural Development, Halifax

Rose Davidson
Service Canada, Windsor