Who is considered an "ex officio" member?

An "ex officio" member is someone who holds membership in a committee or organization by virtue of their position or office, rather than through a typical election process. This status is usually granted to individuals who hold a significant role that aligns with the organization's objectives. For example, a board president might serve as an ex officio member of all committees, allowing for continuity and oversight.

Typically, ex officio members may or may not have voting rights, which distinguishes them from regular members. Their participation is often meant to provide expertise or facilitate communication across different levels of the organization. The context of their service is directly tied to the authority of their primary role, which explains why option B accurately defines them.

In contrast to the other choices, which suggest scenarios that do not accurately represent the concept of ex officio membership, option B clearly articulates the essential relationship between the individual's office and their membership status, thus reinforcing the idea that being an ex officio member is intrinsically linked to holding another influential position within the organization.