DEM Policy on Leadership Term Length and Limits

This policy establishes term lengths and limits for leadership roles withing the Department of Emergency Medicine to support equitable leadership opportunities and promote leadership renewal.

Scope

This policy applies to all formal administrative and leadership roles for clinical and tenure-stream faculty within the Department of Emergency Medicine, including:

  • Associate Head
  • Research Director
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Lead
  • Program Directors and Associate Program Directors (including undergraduate, residency, fellowship, and other educational programs)
  • Discipline Specific Site Leads and Site Directors
  • Committee Chairs
  • Other administrative and leadership appointments

This policy does not apply to the Department Head as term length and duration for Head appointments is governed by the UBC Academic Heads Policy (Heads may be appointed for five years and will not normally serve for more than 10 consecutive years).

Term Length

    • Leadership positions will have three-year terms, with the exception of 5-year terms for Residency Program Directors/Associate Directors and Fellowship Program Directors/Associate Program Directors.

    Term Limits

    • Individuals may serve up to two consecutive terms in the same leadership role.
    • Reappointment for a second term will be contingent upon satisfactory performance and alignment with departmental goals.

      Exceptions

      • The Department Head may approve extensions in exceptional circumstances (e.g., lack of qualified candidates or ongoing critical projects).
      • Interim appointments may be made for up to one year and do not count toward the term limit.

      Succession Planning

      • To ensure continuity and preserve institutional knowledge, DEM leadership positions will use role-based email accounts.
      • Outgoing leaders are encouraged to mentor successors and participate in transition planning.
      • Selection and hiring for leadership positions follow the DEM guidelines for best EDI practices.

      Implementation

      • This policy will apply to all DEM administrative appointments once in effect.
      • Current leaders exceeding the term limits will be allowed to apply for one additional term.

      Effective Date

      • November 1, 2025

      Policy Review and Approval Process

      • Departmental Consultation: September 9, 2025 DEM Advisory Committee.
      • Executive Committee approval: October 14, 2025 Executive Committee.