Practice 3B: Board Composition and Structure

This guidance covers Practice 3B, which includes five elements:

1. ⬤ Have a board of sufficient size, skills, backgrounds and experiences to conduct its work effectively

2. Have a board substantially composed of independent members to reduce risk arising from conflicts of interest

3. ⬤ Have a board development process that includes procedures for recruiting and training board members

4. Ensure the board’s presiding officer and treasurer are not the same individual

5. If a staff member serves on the board, clearly define the staff role and limit the board member role accordingly to ensure separation of duties and avoid undue influence

   1. a. No staff member serves as the board’s presiding officer or treasurer

⬤ Accreditation indicator element | ■ Terrafirma enrollment prerequisite | ▲ Required for both

May 2026 update: Updated accreditation requirements for Practice Element 3B3 to reflect the 2026 Requirements Manual.