The position of Chief Electoral Officer of Canada was created in 1920 in an effort to streamline and standardize the administration of federal elections. The Chief Electoral Officer is appointed by a resolution of the House of Commons. This procedure allows all parties represented in the House of Commons to participate in the selection process, thereby adding to the independence of the position.

Once appointed, the Chief Electoral Officer may be removed from office only for cause, by the Governor General, on a joint address of the House of Commons and the Senate. Before 2014, the Chief Electoral Officer was appointed to serve until the age of 65. New appointees after 2014 are to serve for a term of 10 years.

Source: Elections Canada