Chief Returning Officer

**Overview**
The Chief Returning Officer (CRO) is the independent and impartial officer responsible for overseeing all aspects of elections for the Student Association of George Brown College. Appointed by the Board of Directors, the CRO is entrusted with the administration, enforcement, and validation of all Student Association electoral processes in accordance with By-law 12 and applicable policies. The CRO ensures fair and transparent elections, administers the nomination and campaign period, oversees voting and validation of results, and provides authoritative interpretations of election rules.

The CRO is responsible for managing all election staff, ensuring compliance with timelines, investigating potential violations, issuing binding rulings, and maintaining the overall integrity of the electoral process.

**Duties and Responsibilities (will include but not limited to)**:
**1. Overall Election Administration**
- Administer and oversee all elections, by-elections, and referenda as per SAGBC By-laws.
- Prepare and issue the official election timeline and notices, including nomination periods, campaigning, and voting days.
- Supervise and coordinate with the Deputy Returning Officers and polling staff.
- Work with appropriate Student Association Staff on logistics of the election, marketing campaigns, and other important items.

**3. Campaign Oversight and Compliance**
- Approve all campaign materials in advance and ensure compliance with spending limits, donation rules, and use of resources.
- Enforce campaign restrictions, including rules on prohibited locations, timing, and the use of Association resources.
- Monitor campaign conduct, investigate potential rule violations, and issue binding decisions, including disciplinary measures up to disqualification.
- Ensure no campaigning occurs prior to the nomination period as per the By-laws.

**4. Polling and Voting**
- Oversee the setup and operation of all polling stations and/or electronic voting platforms.
- Recruit, train, and supervise poll clerks and DROs to ensure professional conduct and adherence to procedures.
- Ensure ballots are secure and polling logistics comply with fairness and accessibility standards.
- Authorize the finalization of polling and validation of vote counts.

**5. Results, Validation, and Reporting**
- Validate all election results, ensuring the counting process complies with established procedures.
- Issue official election results and declarations after validation.
- Handle recount requests and refer unresolved recounts to the appropriate appeal mechanism.
- Prepare a formal report on the conduct of the election, including voter turnout, complaints addressed, and recommendations for future elections.

**6. Complaints, Rulings, and Enforcement**
- Receive and adjudicate complaints about campaign violations in accordance.
- Lay charges for any breaches of election rules and issue written rulings with reasons.
- Publish findings and decisions where required.

**7. Governance and Integrity**
- Ensure full compliance with SAGBC By-laws and all related election policies and procedures.
- Consult with the Elections Committee as necessary and provide advice to the Board regarding election processes.
- Ensure all forms, records, and communications are stored and submitted appropriately following the election.

**Required Skills and Experience Qualifications**:

- A post-secondary degree, diploma, or equivalent in Public Administration, Political Science, Law, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in election administration, adjudication, or a comparable regulatory role.
- Strong understanding of the Student Association’s By-laws, particularly By-law 12, and student governance frameworks.
- Experience in managing staff and volunteers in a fast-paced, multi-site environment.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including ability to draft clear rulings and formal notices.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proven ability to make fair, independent, and evidence-based decisions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with online voting systems.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, impartiality, and professionalism at all times.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and variable hours during the election period.
- A clear criminal record check is required before commencing duties.

**Student Association Vision**: Students are empowered to influence a just world.

**Mission Statement**: We are committed to supporting each other and the students of George Brown College in the struggle for students’ rights, the pursuit of quality education and the provision of services in a safe, accessible and equitable environment.

**Job Types**: Part-time, Seasonal

Pay: $26.20 per hour

Expected hours: 30 per week

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Employee assistance program

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Work Location