Board of Directors Election Process in Associations
The election process in associations is not defined by UK law because associations can have different legal forms, namely being incorporated or unincorporated. In general, all associations elect a kind of management committee to run the association on behalf of their members.
Board of Directors
The board of directors is usually elected by the members. The number of seats on the board is outlined in the bylaws of the association.
The Role of the Board of Directors
The board of directors runs the association on behalf of the members and represents their interests. The individual duties of the board members are outlined in the bylaws.
Election Process in Board of Directors Elections
Who can be a member of the board?
Anyone can be a director on the board, members of the association or non-members, depending on the bylaws.
Nominations for the board of directors
Every member of the association can nominate candidates if the bylaws allow it. The form of nomination is mentioned in the bylaws. In addition, a deadline for submitting nominations can be set.
Term of the board of directors
The term of the directors is regulated in the bylaws. However, it can also be decided by the members during their annual general meeting.
Electoral procedure
The bylaws establish which electoral procedure should be used e.g. if votes are cast for candidates rather than a party (or group) or the opposite, voting for a party (or group) rather than candidates. Furthermore, the form of voting , whether it be in paper form, in person through a show of hands, by post and/or electronic should be provided in the bylaws. An easy and convenient option is online voting. Learn more about secure online voting with POLYAS!
Voting rights in board of directors elections
There can be active and passive members in an association, but all can vote on the board of directors unless stated otherwise in the bylaws. The bylaws also outline which members are considered active or passive.
POLYAS-Tip: Include the option of voting online in your bylaws and conduct your future board of directors election electronically. Learn more about amending your bylaws to include online voting!
Advantages of an Online Board of Directors Election
Online voting in your association is the next step towards the digital future. Lower your costs and efforts spent on the board of directors election. Give absent voters the opportunity to vote in the election by including online voting in your bylaws. Reduce the obstacles to reach democratic decisions at your AGM and focus your time on the important issues in your association! Our election experts can support you in implementing online voting in your association!