Executive Director

About the Opportunity

Following the retirement of our highly valued Executive Director, who has been a part of the organization since inception. The Board of Directors is seeking an innovative leader for Kanata Research Park Family Centre (KRPFC), one who will continue to foster the educational philosophies that have been the foundations of our vision and program delivery. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-respected early learning and child care program which has deep community roots in the Kanata North high-tech business park.

Kanata Research Park Family Centre

Established in early 2000, KRPFC is a charitable, not for profit early learning and child care program licensed through the Ministry of Education. The foundational values are deeply influenced by the Reggio Emelia philosophies and Ontario’s Framework, How Does Learning Happen? Our programs are grounded in building strong, trusting relationships through a pedagogical approach in the early learning sector. We offer full time licensed child care and early learning programs to toddler (30), preschool (61) and kindergarten (26) children. We also offer a licensed summer camp program (off site) which has a licensed capacity of 30 children.

The Role

Responsible and committed to the implementation of the KRPFC’s vision, mission and philosophy statements. Strong vision and leadership to oversee the strategic plan and operations while maintaining compliance with all the relevant legislation and funding guidelines. Fostering an environment where all members of the team thrive and are empowered to be on a continuous learning journey that supports pedagogical practices.

Key Responsibilities

Pedagogical and Operational Leadership

• Work along side in partnership with the leadership team, including the collaborative leader, and the pedagogical coordinator while participating in collective decision-making processes
• Design and implement policies and systems to support compliance with legislative licensing requirements (CCEYA, 2014 and OPH Guidelines and other compliance legislation)
• Ensure the vision, mission and philosophy statements align with the service delivery, compliance, and child/family-centered practices.
• Support the educational team along side the Pedagogical Coordinator to ensure the team is supported with curriculum development and documentation projects.
• Provide and maintain all human relations (HR) aspects including; determining staffing requirements for program delivery, implementation of human relations policies, procedures and practices, ensuring a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations (Ontario Employment Standards Act), maintaining up to date employee records.
• Provide pedagogical leadership which fosters a workplace culture of collaborative communication, decision making and high level of professional practice
• Sector wide advocacy for the rights of children, families and educators which includes representing the agency on a variety of sector specific committees

Organizational & Financial Leadership

• Execute the approved Strategic Plan through the development of an achievable operational plan with clear timelines, goals and metrics.
• Implement all financial responsibilities outlined in the Canada Wide Early Learning and Child care plan (CWELCC) and the City of Ottawa child care services financial guidelines as per contribution agreement.
• Cultivate a strong working relationship with the Board of Directors, open communication about the governance, financial reports, compliance and any other relevant information as it pertains to the delivery of the programs.
• Prepare and organize board meetings that includes developing reports to the Board of Directors, including comprehensive financial reports on an ongoing basis.
• Maintain the long-standing community partnership with Kanata Research Park Properties

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5- 10 years relevant work experience within the licensed early learning and child care system (RECE in good standing)
• 3-5 years of demonstrated team leadership experience and collaborative initiatives with a track record of exceptional problem-solving skills
• Experience and knowledge with the compliance of the licensing standards, Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014, HDLH?
• Demonstrated knowledge of health and safety guidelines, human relations best practices, financial administration including budgeting
• Negative Vulnerable Police Records check (valid)
• Valid Standard First Aid and CPR certification

Additional Assets

• Proven leadership skills that focus on building strong, positive relationships
• Knowledge and demonstrates equity, diversity, and inclusion practices including anti-bias curriculum
• Experience working along side diverse populations, family structures and beliefs
• Engaged in ongoing professional learning opportunities specifically focusing on pedagogical approaches in early learning and child care
• Grant application / proposal experience
• Solution-based thinking and the demonstrated ability to take a centre-wide strategic viewpoint that ensures the impact to the various stakeholders is always considered in the decision-making process
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Commitment and contributions to collaborative, inclusive, and child-centered practices
• Strong computer and Digital platform knowledge

Compensation Package

Salary & Benefits

$ 86,500 – $ 93,700 (commensurate with experience)

Generous vacation entitlements and other paid leave, RRSP matching program, comprehensive medical / dental package including an Employee Assistance Program, short- and long-term disability, paid time off for professional development

Start Date

Complete a one-on-one knowledge transfer and cross-training process with the current ED over a period of up to three – five months

How to Apply?

Our organization has built a strong reputation through relationship-based practice, a Reggio-inspired approach, and deep trust with families, educators, and the community.

How would you honour and strengthen that culture while also leading the organization through future challenges and opportunities?

To apply, please send your resume along with a cover letter that responds to the question posed above.

The Kanata Research Park Family Centre values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We offer an inclusive work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Workplace accommodations are available. While we thank all those who apply, only those to be interviewed will be contacted.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not be used to screen eligible candidates