> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://handbook.proanimal.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://handbook.proanimal.org/other/corporate/bylaws/article-v-officers.md).
# Article V: Delegation & Retention of Authority
**Section 5.1 Delegation**
The Mission Circle hereby adopts the Holacracy constitution, version 5 ("the Constitution"), as the core governance document of the organization. MC delegates responsibility for and authority over the governance and operation of the Organization to the Strategy Circle, according to the rules laid out in the Constitution. The Strategy Circle will generally comprise any members of the Mission Circle who, as employees, contractors, or volunteers, are highly involved in the daily operation of the Organization, along with other members added from time to time according to the Constitution.
MC retains those duties and responsibilities it is required by the governing law to discharge as a board of directors. Otherwise, it retains only the functions laid out in the following sections.
**Section 5.2 Determining Board Membership**
MC shall determine and maintain its own membership through the process outlined in Article 4. It shall generally seek to maintain a membership of approximately six (6) to eight (8) members, with employees and contractors comprising no more than 50% of MC membership except in case of a temporary vacancy.
**Section 5.3 Retention of Employed Board Members**
Hiring and retention of employees and contractors is entrusted to the Strategy Circle, except in the case of any employee or contractor who is also a member of MC, in which case MC shall vote on their retention. Such votes shall happen at least annually and can be called more frequently by any member. This vote may happen at a meeting or through written action.
**Section 5.4 Whistleblower Complaints**
In accordance with the Employee Code of Conduct & Whistleblower Policy appended to these bylaws, the MC shall evaluate any complaint made about a member of MC by any employee, volunteer, or associate of Pro-Animal Future regarding violations of the organization’s policies or code of conduct. Complaints regarding members’ conduct in their personal lives outside the scope of their role with the organization and its policies and code of conduct are generally beyond the purview of MC.
**Section 5.5 Amendements**
MC reserves the power to amend these bylaws from time to time according to Article IX.
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