Farm Debt Mediation Service: Notice of Opportunity – Chairperson (2 positions)

The Government of Canada, through this Notice of Opportunity, is currently seeking experienced, engaged, and enthusiastic members of the public to serve as Chairpersons on the Farm Debt Mediation Service Appeal Boards. Two positions will be filled using this process. The closing date for applications is February 26, 2021.

We know that our country is stronger – and our government more effective – when decision-makers reflect Canada’s diversity. Moving forward, the Government of Canada will use an appointment process that is transparent, merit-based, strives for gender parity, and ensure that Indigenous Canadians and minority groups are properly represented in positions of leadership. We will continue to search for Canadians who reflect the values that we all embrace: inclusion, honesty, fiscal prudence, and generosity of spirit. Together, we will build a government as diverse as Canada.

The overarching goal of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is to support the agricultural sector in a way that allows it to be a leader in job creation and innovation.

The Farm Debt Mediation Service (FDMS) offers financial counselling and mediation services to farmers who are having difficulties meeting their financial obligations. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada administers the FDMS. The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food has established Appeal Boards to permit farmers and creditors to appeal administrative decisions, concerning the eligibility of a farmer to make the application under paragraph 5(1)(a) of the Farm Debt Mediation Act; or the extension or termination of a stay of proceedings.

Candidates are being sought for the position of Chairperson. Appeal Boards are composed of a Chairperson and up to four other members appointed by the Minister.

Responsible Duties

The Chairperson of each Appeal Board shall preside at all meetings, supervise and direct the work of that Appeal Board including:

• Reviewing all the information upon which the decision of AAFC was based, reviewing the Notice of Appeal and any statements in writing of the Applicant or Creditor which have been supplied to the Appeal Board Chairperson by the FDMS;
• Establishing an Appeal Panel from among the appointed members;
• Providing the information to the Appeal Panel Members and convening a meeting via conference call or, in person if the Appeal Panel members have occasion to be at the same location;
• Chairing the Appeal Panel, bringing the members to a majority decision based on sound judgement; and
• Providing a Record of Appeal to the FDMS for each decision taken by an Appeal Panel.

Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications

To be eligible for appointment and perform FDMS appeal board duties, candidates must be Canadian citizens, 18 years of age or older, and subject to the Government of Canada's routine security screening process, which may include financial screening. In addition, a member shall not accept or hold any office or employment inconsistent with the member’s duties, including performing any of the duties of an expert, mediator or administrator under the Act.

Education

• A secondary school diploma or an acceptable combination of education and experience is required.
• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study is considered an asset.

Required experience and skills:

• Owner and/or operator of a farming enterprise and/or providing financial advisory services to farming operators.
• Experience facilitating meetings and distributing work.
• Financial literacy
• Ability to communicate, orally and in writing.
• Ability to reconcile varying interests and values.
• Ability to develop effective working relationships.
• Experience as a member of a Board for a not-for-profit, agricultural association, for-profit, co-operative or charitable organization or as an elected official of any level of government is considered an asset.
• Experience in mediation or conflict resolution is considered an asset.

Competencies

• Sound judgement
• Integrity and accountability
• Tact and discretion
• Leadership

Working conditions and time commitment:

Appeal Panels will usually be convened by teleconference. However, upon initial appointment, chairpersons and members may be required to travel to a central location for training. Work is part-time and occasional and would not normally exceed 10 days per calendar year. Chairpersons should be available on short notice and to convene a panel within 5 business days.

Language Requirements

• Various language requirements (English, French, and bilingual).

Remuneration

Chairpersons are remunerated for preparation time, Appeal Panels and training at a rate of $50.00 per hour. Chairpersons are also eligible for reimbursement of any travel expenses associated with training and participating in FDMS Appeal Board hearings.

How to Apply

Please send your letter of interest and curriculum vitae to AAFC.Appointments-Nominations.AAC@canada.ca and include “Farm Debt Mediation Service Appeal Board Application – Chairperson Position” in the subject line. Please ensure that you clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the above noted requirements. Candidates must also provide six references, including from two former supervisors, former clients, and colleagues.

A roster of qualified candidates may be established and used to staff similar vacancies on the FDMS appeal boards.

Questions

Please send any questions to AAFC.Appointments-Nominations.AAC@canada.ca and include “Farm Debt Mediation Service Appeal Board Application Questions” in the subject line. An AAFC official will contact you within one or two business days.