BCNU Launches External Governance Review

As a democratic, member-led organization, strong governance is essential to ensuring that union resources are used responsibly, decisions are made transparently, and the union remains focused on advancing member’s interests. To ensure effective governance practices that will allow BCNU to best serve its members, the union is launching an external governance review. BCNU operates in a rapidly changing health care and labour relations environment. To remain fit for purpose, its governance must balance strong representation with efficiency, accountability, and responsible use of member resources. 

To support this work, BCNU has engaged Watson Board Advisors, an independent governance advisory firm to conduct the research, gather input, and analyze findings to identify opportunities challenges, and potential options to strengthen BCNU’s governance over the long term. The goal is to ensure the union remains well-positioned to serve members now and into the future.

The request for elements of a governance review was brought forward at BCNU's 2024 convention by delegates and further supported through subsequent governance work and organizational feedback. As BCNU looks ahead to the next 10 to 20 years, this governance review is a proactive investment in BCNU’s long-term capacity to govern with integrity, clarity, and credibility, strengthening the union’s ability to advocate, bargain collectively, and deliver value to members.

Member input is an important part of the process

BCNU members are encouraged to participate in a confidential survey, designed to gather perspectives on how the union’s governance structures and processes support members’ voice, accountability, and effective decision-making.

The survey will be open from March 19 – April 30. Members can access the survey through the BCNU Member Portal. Member feedback will help inform the review and contribute to a clearer understanding of what is working well and where improvements may be possible. Your participation in the survey is an important and vital first step. There will be additional engagement opportunities to participate in the governance review including interviews and focus groups.