Executive Director

About Us

The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada is a national charity devoted to the advancement of astronomy and related sciences. Founded by eight working-class amateur astronomers in 1868, we are now home to over 4000 members across Canada, based in 30 Centres.

The National Office of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada provides support to our volunteer-run Centres, allowing them to focus on bringing astronomy to enthusiasts in Canada and around the world. The office hosts a museum of Canadian amateur telescopes, as well as the Society’s archives and meteorite collection.

We have a suite of dedicated volunteers that help us fulfill the Society’s mission, which is to enhance understanding of and inspire curiosity about the universe. This role requires close work with volunteers.

Our Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate

• is self-motivated and innovative
• has a demonstrated interest in astronomy and the related sciences
• has 2-4 years of experience in non-profit or charity administration, ideally in a leadership position

We will consider candidates with a combination of other experience as well.

Position Overview

The Executive Director is the chief executive of the organization and is responsible for providing vision, leadership, and overall management of the RASC. This includes collaborating with staff and the Society’s Board of Directors to guide strategy, ensuring effective delivery of programs, supporting a positive and professional workplace, strengthening partnerships, and maintaining long-term sustainability.

A key goal for the coming years will be to expand our revenue streams to ensure long-term growth and expansion of programming.

The Executive Director reports to the Society’s Board of Directors.

This position is full-time and permanent, with options for hybrid work-from-home. Some evenings and weekends are required due to the nature of the organization and its reliance on volunteers. Some travel may be required.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management

• Work with the Finance Manager to prepare an annual budget for approval by the Finance Committee
• Administer funds, monitor cash flow, and present monthly financial reports to the Board of Directors with assistance from the Treasurer
• Approve expenditures bi-monthly, including payroll
• Ensure that sound bookkeeping and financial practices are followed
• Lead the Society in its biannual audit by managing and delegating tasks as necessary

Leadership and Strategy

• Provide leadership for the Society’s mission, to staff, and to Centre volunteers
• Lead the implementation of regular Society programs, including
  • the regular publication, promotion, and sales of the Society’s key publications: the Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, the Observer’s Calendar, and the Observer’s Handbook
  • the creation and publication of the Society’s Annual Report
  • the planning, promotion, and execution of the Society’s Annual General Assembly
  • Regular outreach programming such as the NOVA program, the Laser Pointer Program, and our outreach materials program
• Assist with the management and attend meetings of the National Council, a council made up of representatives from all Centres
• Develop new programming in key areas of the Society’s purview
• Develop and maintain connections with other astronomical organizations
• Represent the organization publicly and serve as a positive ambassador for astronomy in Canada

Fundraising and Resource Development

• Run fundraising campaigns
• Apply for grants as approved by the Board of Directors

Human Resources and Culture

• Oversee two full-time staff members and one part-time staff member, as well as a dedicated team of national volunteers
• Oversee implementation of HR policies.
• Support and mentor the staff team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment
• Conduct annual staff performance reviews
• Strengthen volunteer engagement and recognition

Administration

• Manage the RASC website and Domain Name Services, working closely with the Communications Coordinator and volunteers to ensure up-to-date information
• Manage Society IT needs for both the National Office and the Centres, including the use of Google Workspace, Zoom Business, and the Society’s CRM (Customer Relations Management) software.
• Assist in the administration of RASC Centres through the Society’s national programming, such as membership and payment processing, insurance management, trainings programs, etc.

Apply

To apply, please email work@rasc.ca with the subject header “Executive Director Application”. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis.