CAI is governed by dedicated members like you who help shape the future of the community association marketplace, and you can make a difference by applying to serve on one of CAI's Membership Representation Groups by Wednesday July 9! Open positions will be filled via election in August, and eligible voting members will be notified at that time.
There are 15 total open positions on CAI's three Membership Representation Groups:
- Business Partners Council (six open positions)
- Community Association Managers Council (six open positions)
- Homeowner Leaders Council (three open positions)
Open positions are for two-year terms starting January 1, 2026, filled by election in August. Members can serve up to six years (three terms) on a council.
Members received an email from ElectionBuddy ([email protected]) with details and a link for the self-nomination form. Read the qualifications and time/service commitments before applying. You must meet all qualifications to be included in the election.
Role of Councils
Each council represents its membership category to ensure CAI meets member needs. Councils advise the Board of Trustees on policy and staff on programs and services. They are not involved in chapter policy, operations, or governance.
CAI Governance
CAI follows Policy Governance®, which promotes strategic leadership and distinguishes between board and staff roles. Please become familiar with Policy Governance® before running for council. Useful resources include www.carvergovernance.com and www.governforimpact.com.
Time/Service Commitments
The councils meet in person twice a year: at a retreat with the Board of Trustees (January 13-16, 2026, in San Diego, California) and at the CAI Annual Conference (June 3-6, 2026, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida). They also hold video calls throughout the year, with members possibly working on projects between meetings.
Members cover their own meeting costs, but homeowner leaders receive stipends to offset expenses.
General Qualifications
An individual must satisfy the following criteria to qualify for serving on a council:
- Applicants must possess a CAI membership in a category that aligns with the council they are applying for. Please refer to the guidelines below for specific membership duration requirements.
- Commits to attend scheduled meetings (in-person and via conference call), complete Policy Governance® Model training, and follow the council's adopted attendance policy.
- Will not campaign for election or urge others to support or oppose any candidate.
- Must not have been officially sanctioned or censured by CAI regarding a CAI designation.
- Has not been convicted of a first- or second-degree crime or any fiduciary crime while serving on an executive board or during employment.
- Does not work for or receive payment from CAI, a CAI chapter, or an affiliated organization.
- Fulfills the council-specific requirements listed below:
Council-Specific Qualifications
Membership Type | Minimum Membership Length | Credentials | CAI Service | Other | |
Community Association Managers Council | Manager or Management Company | Covered by requirements to obtain PCAM (five years) | Individual Mgr: PCAM CEO w/o PCAM: Company must have AAMC | None | None |
Business Partners Council | Business Partner | Five years | Educated Business Partner Distinction | CAI chapter or national committee or board | None |
Homeowner Leaders Council | Homeowner Leader or Individual Homeowner | Two years | None | CAI chapter or national committee or board | Service on community association board |
Questions? Email [email protected].