Call for 2027–2030 Board Nominations

IOA Members are invited to submit self-nominations for five seats on the 2027–2030 Board of Directors. Members with experience in business development and revenue generation, strategic partnerships, marketing, or research are especially encouraged to apply.

Nominations are due 22 September 2026, with elected directors beginning their terms in January 2027. The self-nomination process is detailed on the 2027–2030 Board Nominations page, where you can learn more about eligibility criteria and what it's like to serve on the IOA Board of Directors.

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Clarifications to the IOA SOPs and Code of Ethics

The final draft of the Standards of Practice and Compendium is now available for member review.

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What is IOA?

The International Ombuds Association (IOA) is the professional association committed to championing Organizational Ombuds worldwide. Our members help organizational stakeholders raise patterns and concerns, navigate conflict, and manage change to support highly effective and healthy organizations. IOA sets the standard for excellence by establishing Standards of Practice, a Code of Ethics, and certifying Organizational Ombuds Practitioners (CO-OP®).

Learn More About IOA

Learn More About Ombuds

Upcoming Events and Trainings

Discover the World of Ombudsing

Unlike many professions, the journey to becoming an organizational ombuds, ombudsperson, or ombudsman does not follow a clearly identified path. The global ombuds community is filled with professionals who come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Most of the ombuds in the IOA network have a diverse range of academic credentials and professional experiences. Review the information below to learn more about the process of becoming an ombuds.

How to Become an Ombuds

How to Become a Member