Governance Structure
BITS is governed through a transparent, democratic framework that ensures accountability to all members.
Governing Bodies
The management of the Society's affairs rests with the following bodies as set out in the BITS Constitution (Article 6):
Annual General Meeting
The highest governing body, convened once every twelve months. Decisions at the AGM are final and binding.
Executive Council
Elected at the AGM, the Council manages day-to-day affairs and meets at least four times per year.
Sub-Committees
Standing committees for Membership, Standards, Finance, Publicity & Information, and Education & Training.
Branches
Branch committees may be formed in districts to complement the efforts of the Council.
Board of Trustees
Three trustees appointed by the AGM for five-year terms to manage the Society's property and assets.
Patron
An advisory figure of good standing, appointed by the AGM on recommendation of the Council.
The Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The AGM is the highest governing body of BITS. It is convened once every twelve months (but not more than fifteen months apart). Decisions taken at the AGM are final and binding on the Society and all its members.
Key duties of the AGM include:
- Receiving and ratifying the Society's annual reports
- Ratifying the external auditor's report
- Electing officers to the Executive Council
- Appointing and/or rescinding the appointment of External Auditors, Patron and Trustees
- Ratifying motions of amendments to the Constitution
- Receiving motions of elections to the grade of Fellow
Quorum: The AGM is properly constituted when at least one-half of voting members are in attendance.
The Executive Council
The Executive Council (the Council) is elected at the AGM and manages the day-to-day affairs of the Society. It holds office until the next AGM and must hold at least four meetings during its term.
Current Executive Committee
Council Composition (per Constitution)
- President
- Vice President
- General Secretary
- Assistant General Secretary
- Treasurer
- Assistant Treasurer
- 5 Additional Members
Only voting members in the grades of Fellow and Member are eligible for election as President, Vice President, General Secretary, and Assistant General Secretary. No Council officer may seek re-election for more than three consecutive terms for the same post.
Elections
- Only voting (paid-up) members may vote or contest elected office
- Election of Council officers is by secret ballot
- Voting by proxy is permitted with advance notice to the General Secretary
- Candidates must be proposed and seconded by at least two voting members
Finance
The Society is funded by membership subscriptions and voluntary donations. Signatories to the Society's accounts are the Treasurer, General Secretary, and the President. Any two of the three signatories must sign all payments.