Originally shared July 29, 2025 by the Canadian Organic Trade Association.
| Dear COTA Members, We hope this note finds you well. As the President at the Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA), we are dedicated to advancing the organic industry in Canada and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both our environment and the health of individuals. To continue our mission and ensure effective leadership, we are seeking enthusiastic and committed individuals to run for the upcoming board election. The Annual General Meeting will be happening online on Wednesday, November 19, 2024 2:00-3:00pm Eastern Time. The election will happen by advance polling on a secure platform. You may register for the online AGM here using the password “cotaAGM2025“. Please note that this is a member’s meeting and in accordance with our bylaws, only trade voting members may participate. The Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the direction of our association, setting policies, and implementing initiatives that drive growth and positive change in the organic industry. Serving on the board provides an opportunity to contribute directly to our organization’s strategic decision-making and to make a meaningful impact on the future of the organic industry in Canada. We strongly believe in the power of diversity and the benefits it brings to any organization. We are actively encouraging candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to step forward and contribute their unique perspectives to the board. We value the inclusion of voices from different regions, ethnicities, genders, and areas of expertise, as it fosters a more comprehensive and well-rounded representation of our members and the industry as a whole. To be eligible to run for the board of directors, candidates should possess a genuine passion for the organic industry and align with the mission and values of our association. Previous board experience is not mandatory, but a willingness to learn, collaborate, and dedicate the necessary time and effort is crucial. If you or someone you know fits this description and is eager to make a difference, we strongly encourage you to put your name forward for the board election. Your involvement can help shape the future of the organic industry in Canada and contribute to the growth and success of our association. To express your interest or nominate a candidate, please complete the nomination form and submit it to Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director, tloftsgard@canada-organic.cano later than Friday, October 3, 2025. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 613-482-1717 ext. 200 or tloftsgard@canada-organic.ca. We are here to assist you throughout the process. Warm regards, Carrie-Anne Palmeri President of the Board of Directors |
| Learn more about the nomination process by reviewing the following documents: 1. Nominee Application Form 2. Board Skills Matrix – Self Assessment tool 3. Current Board Schedule for 2025/2026 (to provide a sense of our board meeting schedule) We have several Board Committees, and there is an expectation that you would join at least one committee to further the organization’s objectives. The committee’s terms of reference are hyperlinked below and should align with your strengths and skillset: 1. Finance and Audit Committee 2. Human Resources Committee 3. Governance and Nomination Committee 4. Revenue Generation Committee We look forward to receiving your application by Friday, October 3, 2025! Please send the completed forms to tloftsgard@canada-organic.ca |