Governance


Canadian Blood Services was incorporated in 1998 under the Canada Corporations Act. In 2014, articles of continuance were filed to transition to the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. We function as an independent, not-for-profit organization that operates at arm’s length from government.


Governance at Canadian Blood Services is guided by the principles of accountability, engagement and transparency. Our governance structure is multi-layered and balances ministerial responsibility and accountability with the autonomy necessary to ensure a safe, secure and effective blood supply. Supporting this structure are comprehensive practices and procedures that include engagement with scientific, medical and community stakeholders to ensure that we meet – if not exceed – the expectations of our regulator Health Canada, our corporate members (the provincial and territorial ministers of health except Quebec) and Canadians.

Provincial and territorial ministers of health


The provincial and territorial ministers of health provide most of the funding for Canadian Blood Services’ operations and act as the organization’s corporate members. The ministers appoint the organization’s board of directors, approve Canadian Blood Services’ annual budget and receive its three-year corporate plan.

Image of blood donor Heather
Image of donor Tom

Board of directors


Directors are appointed by the provincial and territorial ministers of health. The board is responsible for the organization’s governance, overall affairs, strategic plan, budget and reporting on Canadian Blood Services’ performance to the corporate members. 

Executive management team


Our executive management team is accountable to the Canadian Blood Services board of directors and responsible for ensuring we operate within the policy and strategy framework approved by the board. The CEO leads our management, staff and volunteer teams. 

Image of CEO Graham Sher