Executive Director

ABOUT US

The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) is Canada’s leading progressive research institute dedicated to developing and promoting public policies that advance social, economic, and environmental justice. With a strong commitment to evidence-based research and advocacy, the CCPA plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing policy decisions at all levels of government.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of the CCPA and provides strategic leadership to the organization. This role is responsible for overseeing the CCPA’s mission, vision, and values, while ensuring the organization’s financial sustainability and impact. The ED works with provincial offices to help facilitate their work. The ED also builds relationships with donors to support CCPA’s research and communication. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of public policy, a passion for social justice, and a proven track record of leadership in a complex organizational environment.

LOCATION

Remote/work-from-home arrangements are possible and negotiable. However, regular reporting to the office in Ottawa may be required. The option to work remotely/from home is not a right or a guarantee and shall be decided solely by the employer. However, the employer recognizes that, in some circumstances, remote/hybrid arrangements are mutually beneficial. For that reason, the employer is committed to periodic review and discussion of what is best for both the employee and the employer.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the CCPA’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and vision, including:
o Facilitating and supporting the management team, board of directors, and Members’ Council of CCPA in implementing the purposes and guiding principles of CCPA in accordance with the bylaws.
o Organizing, preparing agendas for, documenting, and overseeing necessary follow-up on meetings of management, the Members’ Council, and the board of directors.
o Supporting the board of directors in developing organizational strategic priorities and reporting on progress at board meetings.
o Liaising with provincial offices to support them in implementing their strategic plans.
o Work with the management team to ensure the proper functioning of systems and processes required to implement the work of the CCPA; assessing their effectiveness on a regular basis; and recommending changes as required.
These systems include the organization’s CRMs, document management systems; fundraising mechanisms; and any digital applications required to fulfill the CPPA’s mandate.

Financial Management: In collaboration with the CCPA Treasurer, oversee the organization’s financial performance, including budget development, fundraising, and resource allocation, including:
o Budgeting and financial management in collaboration with other staff.
o Allocation of revenue and other resources.
o Provision of shared services.
o Human resources systems.
o Contracts with labour unions or funding agencies.
o CRA and other legislative and regulatory compliance, as applicable.

Organizational Development: Build and maintain a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.

Public Profile: Represent the CCPA on a national and international level, building relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, media, and the public.

Fundraising and Partnerships: Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, cultivating relationships with donors, foundations, and other partners.

Public Relations: Enhance the CCPA’s public profile through effective communication and media relations strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree in public policy, economics, political economy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in a senior leadership role, preferably in a non-profit or public policy organization.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising and financial management.
• Strong understanding of the Canadian political and policy landscape.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas to a diverse audience.
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice, equity, and human rights.
• Excellent technical skills, including knowledge of a wide range of commonly used computer systems and tools, such as communications tools, email, calendar, databases, contact management systems, document management, virtual meetings, and financial management tools.
• Familiarity with progressive policy research and Canada’s social justice movements.
• Familiarity with organizational obligations under Canada’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and other requirements for charitable organizations.
• Ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively with offices across Canada, ensuring organization-wide stability while recognizing and valuing regional specificities, cultures, and research objectives.
• Proven ability to manage a team to reach organizational goals.
• Experience with strategic planning and operational goal-setting, as well as implementing strategic plans.
• Experience and skills in designing and planning complex work processes and systems, and demonstrated leadership in developing organizational culture for collaborative problem-solving.
• Knowledge of financial management, fundraising, or communications.
• Ability to work in French would be an asset.

HOW TO APPLY

• To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and experience by no later than December 2, 2024.
• Please submit applications via: https://ccpa.bamboohr.com/careers/40
• Annual base salary of $120,000 (negotiable) plus benefits.
• We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
• The CCPA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We especially encourage applications from Indigenous people, Black and racialized persons, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and women.
• Please let us know if you require an accommodation at any stage of our hiring and onboarding process. Information received in relation to accommodation requests will be addressed confidentially.