Governance

Canadians expect their governments and public institutions to uphold the highest standards of efficiency and effectiveness.

The National Gallery of Canada is committed to meeting those expectations by pursuing its mandate in a way that reflects best practices in corporate governance and by remaining fully accountable.

Under the Museums Act, the Gallery’s Board of Trustees serves as its governing body, reporting to Parliament through the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. The 11 members of the Board, representing all regions of the country, are appointed by the Governor-in-Council on the advice of the Minister. The Board has primary responsibility for ensuring that the resources provided to the institution are used judiciously to achieve its mandate. The Board provides strategic direction to the Gallery, oversees the conduct of its business, and ensures that all major issues are given proper consideration.

The Board is assisted by six committees: the Executive Committee; the Acquisitions Committee; the Audit & and Finance Committee; the Governance and Nominating Committee; the Human Resources Committee; and the Programmes and Advancement Committee.

The Board of Trustees meets quarterly, once outside the National Capital Region, and the meetings are supplemented by frequent conference calls. The Board delegates authority for day-to-day management of the Gallery to the Director of the National Gallery, who is supported by three Deputy Directors and four Directors.