Executive Director, Credit Valley Conservation Foundation
Who are we?
Credit Valley Conservation is one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities dedicated to protecting, restoring and enhancing our local natural environment. We care for the Credit River, its streams and tributaries from the headwaters in Orangeville to the shores of Lake Ontario in Mississauga. We are scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, environmentalists, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. We create connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. We’re leaders and explorers. We are professional and we’re inspired. We know our stuff, and we work every day to make a difference.
Who are you?
You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You get up every day and go to work with purpose. You accept that you may not change the world, but you’ll try to make an impact in your corner. You like to partner with skilled people across many professions. It’s as natural for you think about the outdoors as it is to think out of the box. You’re passionate, responsible and approachable. You do what’s right, not just what’s easy. You care, and it shows.
Why work for us?
We offer competitive public sector pay. We have a good employee benefits program. We’re members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund. We have flexible work hours for many positions. We find time to have fun and celebrate successes. You’ll have free access to our parks and discounts on recreational equipment rentals. You’ll know your co-workers by name and will make fast friends. You’ll like being at work.
Summary of Functions
The CVC Foundation raises funds in support of the conservation projects carried out by Credit Valley Conservation (CVC). We are at a pivotal time in our history and are seeking a dynamic, results oriented Executive Director that will continue to build on our fundraising success. We are committed to helping CVC achieve the vision of the Credit Valley Trail, the transformation of several conservation areas (Island Lake, Belfountain and Jim Tovey Lakeview), the acquisition of new green space and numerous other vital environmental initiatives.
The CVC Foundation Executive Director will lead the fundraising strategy, team and relationships that will drive revenue growth through capital campaigns, annual campaigns, major gifts, corporate partnerships, grants and events. They will set strategic direction and establish priorities for a high-performance team of fundraisers and fundraising volunteers. They will work collaboratively with Credit Valley Conservation to ensure that CVC’s philanthropic needs are equipped for success.
Eligibility Requirements
- Over 10 years of proven experience in leading and motivating teams focused on fundraising, sales, relationship management and working in a results-driven capacity
- Personal experience cultivating and closing large, transformational gifts and successfully managing relationships over time with major donors and volunteers
- Extensive knowledge of Canadian fundraising trends, methods and principles
- Significant experience leading capital campaigns, annual fund-raising campaigns and managing a pipeline of philanthropic opportunities
- Demonstrated capacity to set strategy, oversee implementation and drive growth all along the donor giving continuum
- Demonstrated success in crafting and closing major, multi-year and corporate donations
- Excellent relationship-building and interpersonal skills to work effectively with senior leaders, board members, high net worth donors and volunteers
- Demonstrated success in working with volunteer committees and campaign cabinets
- Results-driven, hard-working and always focused on continuous improvement
- Strategic thinker with the ability to develop innovative solutions and cost-efficient processes
- High energy, enthusiasm and a demonstrated ability to work professionally and effectively under pressure
- Strong donor service orientation and superior communications skills including oral/pubic speaking, written and listening
- Strong interpersonal skills: coaching, encouraging, motivating, negotiating, managing change, conflict resolution
- Reputation for a high degree of integrity and trustworthiness and collaboration
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Experience in DonorPerfect (or similar donor software)
- Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) certification preferred
Summary of Major Tasks
- Develop and execute an overall fundraising strategy to substantially increase the amount of donations and other funding that CVCF receives on an annual basis
- Provide energetic leadership to the development of new fundraising and donor stewardship approaches and tactics to achieve long-term revenue growth objectives for identified fundraising priorities
- Provide strong operational and financial oversight to effectively and efficiently manage CVCF within approved or legislated policies, laws, statutes, and budgets
- Provide inspired leadership and coaching to employees to maintain an engaged and empowered team of highly skilled professionals
- Provide input and oversight into the development of marketing materials including customized donor proposals, impact reports, annual reports, case statements, solicitation materials, web content and social media content
- Develop, monitor and improve undesignated revenue-generating programs.
- Oversee and personally develop key donor relationships in order to strengthen and grow donations and volunteerism
- Provide leadership to the formation and management of volunteer Friends of Conservation Area groups for the purpose of advancing place-based fundraising
- Develop and implement systems, programs, processes and structures to ensure the administrative and organizational effectiveness of the Foundation
- Create and implement donor appreciation programs for donor acquirement and retention.
- Establish and maintain a highly collaborative relationship with the CVCF Board of Directors, ensuring they have the information required to execute their governance function
- Plan, develop and uphold a comprehensive and responsible annual budget and provide regular monitoring of revenues, expenditures and risks
- Provide the CVCF Board of Directors with regular updates on revenue and expenses, budget and forecasts, and ensure board members are equipped with the research, predictive modeling, prospects, stewardship tools and operational support they need to be successful in their fundraising efforts
Anticipated Start Date: January 24, 2022 (35 hours/week)
Annual Salary Starting At: $97,115
To apply for this opportunity, please attach a resume and cover letter via our website by December 12, 2021 to: https://cvc.ca/jobs/61-executive-director-credit-valley-conservation-foundation/
Resumes/letters submitted electronically must be submitted in Word or Pdf. format as one document.
We thank all applicants for their interest. However only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.
CVC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005), CVC will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. If you require disability – related accommodations, please inform the Human Resources (HR) staff. All personal information is collected under the authority of the municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.