Join the Housing Trust of Nova Scotia Board of Directors

Seeking Directors

Call for Expressions of Interest – 2026/2027

The Housing Trust of Nova Scotia (HTNS) is experiencing rapid growth and expanding its impact across the province.

To support this momentum and strengthen director succession planning, we invite expressions of interest from individuals interested in joining our Board of Directors. For the 2026-2027 cycle, we are particularly encouraging applications from individuals with expertise in related areas of law and multi-unit housing development.

HTNS’s current directors bring deep experience in real estate, including property management, construction, finance, and law. As the organization grows in scale and complexity, we are broadening the range of skills on the board to ensure strong, modern governance aligned with our mission of providing accessible rental homes during a time of significant housing need.

27 Evans Avenue, Halifax

Membership Structure

HTNS is a nonprofit registered with Societies Nova Scotia and operates as a membership-based organization. Members participate in committees and are eligible for election to the Board of Directors. New directors may be drawn from the existing membership or may be elected to a director role concurrent with membership.

Five of the six founding directors continue to serve on the board. Term limits were introduced in June 2023, with the option to grandfather founding members. The bylaws, currently under review, allow for a board of no fewer than five and no more than 15 directors. Directors are elected for one-year terms, resigning before the Annual General Meeting.

Who We’re Looking For

HTNS is seeking directors who bring:

  • Expertise in legal, multifamily housing, or community development
  • A commitment to strong governance
  • A passion for housing affordability and community impact
  • Professional experience that reflects the diversity of Nova Scotia
  • We welcome expressions of interest from individuals across the province and from a wide range of backgrounds

 

About the Housing Trust of Nova Scotia

HTNS is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating non-market and sustainable rental housing across the province. We partner with communities, governments, and local organizations to develop, preserve, and revitalize housing that supports working households and builds stronger communities. Each HTNS building offers a mix of rental rates—from near market rents to units with household incentives—designed to ensure long-term sustainability, support growth, and maintain high-quality homes.

Guided by our mission and values, we are committed to building strong, vibrant communities where everyone has a place to call home

Our Residents

At The Housing Trust Nova Scotia, our housing model is designed for moderate-income, working households — people who earn too much to qualify for social housing, but not enough to keep up with rising market rents in the communities where they work.

Our residents are diverse and include the people who keep communities running but often cannot afford to live in them: custodians, health care workers, shelter staff, hotel workers, artists, cultural workers, new graduates, young professionals, restaurant workers, seniors, and people living with disabilities, among others.

Accelerated Impact

HTNS is in a period of accelerated expansion:

  • 295 units acquired in 2022 across five buildings, offering below-market rents
  • 100+ new homes underway in partnership with the Government of Nova Scotia to support healthcare and skilled workers
  • 1,000 units targeted over the next five years, transitioning homes from the private sector to the community sector to protect long-term affordability
  • Nearly 500 rental units are currently owned and managed by HTNS
  • Target: 1,000 rental homes by 2030

This growth will be achieved through a combination of acquisitions, transitioning units from the private sector to the community sector to protect long-term affordability, and leveraging opportunities through Build Canada Homes. This is a pivotal moment for HTNS — and for the communities we serve.

 

27 Evans Avenue, Halifax

Director Expectations

Directors are expected to:

  • Attend quarterly in-person board meetings
  • Participate in virtual meetings as required
  • Serve on at least one committee
  • Commit to six years (maximum) of service (one year renewable terms)

All directors and members must sign a conflict of interest declaration and confidentiality agreement. HTNS bylaws allow for 5 to 15 directors and include term limits introduced in 2023.

How to Apply

To express interest in becoming a director, please email your resume and cover letter to: funderrelations@housingtrust.ca

Your cover letter should describe:

  • Why you are interested in HTNS
  • How your skills and experience can support our mission

Deadline: March 2nd, 2026

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview. References may be requested.

All roles are volunteer and unpaid.