Profile: Kirsti Suutari, Chair of the National Governance Committee
Kirsti Suutari is a dedicated and experienced leader within the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance (CSIA). As the chair of the National Governance Committee (NGC) she plays a significant role in ensuring the organization operates efficiently and effectively, aligning with modern governance standards while honouring its rich history.
Kirsti’s Background in Skiing
Kirsti’s journey with the CSIA began at the age of eligibility when she transitioned from a perpetual skiing student to an instructor. She achieved her Level 1 certification in 1977, followed a year later by her Level 2. After a further decade of dedication and perseverance and a Level 1 coaching certification, she obtained her Level 3 and has been a course conductor since 1991. She was inducted into the CSIA National Hall of Fame in the Builder category in 2023.
Kirsti’s involvement in skiing extends from her family, with both sisters also CSIA certified.
“My father thought it was a great way to spend time as a family during the winter so that he could be out skiing too. He skied past his mid-’80s and he often joked that whenever one of us gave him a tip, he was recouping a fraction of his investment from all those years ago.”
Roles and Responsibilities
Kirsti currently works seasonally as a full-time ski pro and weekday supervisor at Alpine Ski Club. She has enjoyed a long career in financial markets technology (“fintech”) in global management roles and served on boards for organizations including the Canadian Power & Sail Squadron, Mansfield Ski Club, the Lake Ontario Racing Council (sailing), and the Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors (CASI). Kirsti has been on CSIA national and regional boards and committees in executive roles including chair since 1994.
Joining the Governance Committee
Kirsti was chosen as chair of the national governance committee by her peers due to her deep understanding of the CSIA and her governance background. Her knowledge of the structure and evolution of the organization helps her bring the history of policies, rules, and practices to the committee discussions and work.
“These people are great to work with. They’re experienced, thoughtful, interested in the subject matter and willing to do the work. I think we are all optimistic that there will be good outcomes to our governance initiatives.”
Governance Initiatives
Under Kirsti’s leadership, the national governance committee has embarked on a comprehensive review of the CSIA’s governance structure as requested by the national board of directors. This initiative aims to address various situations encountered in recent years and ensure that the organization’s governance framework evolves with changing times and best practices.
Key aspects of this review include evaluating board composition, elections and voting committees, and the alignment of regional and national governance structures. This will enable the CSIA to improve its governance practices.
The committee is also focusing on ensuring that board members are adequately educated and trained for their roles and that their performance is monitored, promoting a balanced and effective leadership team.
The Future of Governance
Kirsti is optimistic about the future of the CSIA’s governance. Her goal is to create an inclusive environment where diverse skills and perspective are valued and leveraged for the betterment of the organization. She believes that with the right mix of experience, education and passion, the CSIA can continue to thrive and adapt to the needs of its members.
She promotes the value of involving more women.
“Do not underestimate your abilities,” Kirsti says to members. “There are any number of regional and national board and committees to join. Start as a volunteer, learn how things operate and gain experience. Find a niche where your skills and your passion can benefit, and then participate on a more formalized basis. The CSIA will benefit from the diversity, and from leadership more representative of our membership.