Becoming the Next BOHS President

“The President-Elect, President, and Immediate Past-President are prestigious leadership roles, with responsibility for ensuring the effective operation of the Society within its Charter, byelaws, regulations, strategic aims and mission.”

Previous presidential officeholders have expressed what an honour it has been to be in such a position in representing the Society and the profession on a national and global scale.

As we celebrate our 70^th Anniversary, we continue to strive towards achieving our 5-year strategy. 2023 brings various exciting and challenging opportunities to their pinnacle including the continuing efforts to introduce a Professional Register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, an occupational hygiene competency framework, and engagement with key stakeholders within parliament to get those vital messages to legislators and parliamentarians about the importance of worker health protection. 

What does this mean in practice?

These honorary positions require a 3-year commitment where you will hold office as President-Elect, President and then Past-President for a period of one year each.

1. In your first year, you will hold office as President-Elect. This role enables you to understand the functioning of the Society and to engage with membership, stakeholders and the Head Office in a way that will support your future Presidential role as Chair of the Board and Chair of Trustees and leader of the Executive Team. You will be an active member of the Executive (the Presidential Trio and the Chief Executive), providing guidance on addressing the challenges and opportunities of the Society, supporting the implementation of the Society’s strategic aims, and helping to provide oversight of the work of the CEO and the Head Office.
2. In your second year, you will hold office as President, overseeing the direction and management of the Society together with the Chief Executive, Executive and Board as well as being the principal representative and spokesperson of the Society. There are opportunities to attend the conferences of our international partner societies such as the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygiene (AIOH) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
3. In your third and final year, you will hold office as the Immediate Past President, supporting the new President and the transition of any new Board members and Officers of the Society, as well as representing the Society with key external stakeholders and partners.

What is the time commitment?

President-Elect	15% of a full-time role (estimate 7.5 hours per week)
President	30% of a full-time role (estimate 12 hours per week with occasionally higher intensity e.g., around conferences etc.)
Immediate Past President	10% of a full-time role (estimate 4 hours per week)

In addition, the Presidential trio are expected to attend fortnightly (virtual) executive meetings and attend ad-hoc Head Office Away Days.

Availability for up to 12 hours per week is a considerable commitment. The Society does not wish to deter eligible candidates for the role because of the time demands, particularly candidates from less well-represented groups or part-time workers. If you are interested in the role of President but have concerns about the time commitment, please discuss this with the CEO and Honorary Secretary.