Executive Director

About Caledon Meals on Wheels

Caledon Meals on Wheels (CMOW) is a community-based charitable organization that helps older adults and people with disabilities live independently and remain connected to their communities. CMOW provides nutrition, wellness, social connection and safety-focused programs across Caledon, Dufferin County and the Region of Peel.

The opportunity

CMOW is seeking an experienced and community-minded Executive Director to provide strategic and operational leadership. Working in close partnership with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will steward CMOW's mission, lead staff and volunteers, strengthen financial sustainability and community partnerships, and ensure programs continue to respond to the evolving needs of the people CMOW serves.

The successful candidate will be a thoughtful, practical leader who can connect strategy with day-to-day operations. They will bring sound judgement, strong financial and people leadership skills, and a commitment to inclusive, client-centred service.

Key responsibilities

Leadership and governance

• Work with the Board to advance CMOW's mission, values and strategic plan.
• Provide timely, accurate information to support effective governance and informed decision-making.
• Support the Board in policy development, organizational oversight and the evaluation of strategic priorities.
• Serve as a corporate signing officer and conduct official correspondence on behalf of CMOW, as authorized.

Strategy and operations

• Translate strategic priorities into annual operational plans with clear goals, measures and accountabilities.
• Align policies, procedures, staffing and resources to support effective, responsive and client-centred services.
• Lead continuous improvement and accreditation activities, embedding quality standards throughout the organization.
• Use data and community knowledge to identify emerging needs, assess outcomes and guide organizational decisions.

Financial leadership and revenue development

• Lead the development of annual budgets and multi-year forecasts, monitor financial performance and report variances to the Board.
• Oversee accounting, audit, investments, insurance, purchasing and asset management.
• Strengthen and diversify revenue through grants, donations, fundraising, partnerships and other appropriate opportunities.
• Build trusted relationships with donors and funders and ensure grant agreements and reporting requirements are fulfilled.

Programs and service quality

• Oversee the planning, delivery and evaluation of CMOW's programs and services.
• Ensure services reflect community needs, funder expectations, accreditation standards and CMOW's commitment to dignity, choice and accessibility.
• Support responsible innovation and evidence-informed improvements to service delivery.
• Support and maintain quality assurance measures and maintain accreditation standards.

People and organizational culture

• Lead, coach and support the leadership team and promote clear accountability across the organization.
• Foster a safe, respectful, inclusive and collaborative workplace for employees and volunteers.
• Ensure sound human resources practices, including recruitment, performance management, professional development, succession planning and employee wellness.

Community relationships and advocacy

• Act as CMOW's primary spokesperson and build constructive relationships with clients, caregivers, volunteers, community partners, funders, donors, media and government representatives.
• Represent CMOW in sector networks, community tables and advisory groups, and stay current on trends and policy changes affecting community support services.
• Develop partnerships that advance shared goals, improve service coordination and expand CMOW's community impact.

Risk management and compliance

• Identify and manage risks related to people, finances, property, service delivery and organizational reputation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial and municipal requirements, including privacy, employment, occupational health and safety, charitable and corporate obligations.
• Maintain appropriate insurance, internal controls, required filings and organizational records.
• Promote a culture of safety and address health and safety concerns promptly.

Qualifications and experience

• Post-secondary degree in health, social services, business administration or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least five years of senior leadership experience in a charitable or not-for-profit organization, preferably in community support services, health, social services or a related sector.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively with a governance Board, including strategic planning, policy development and reporting.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and oversight of internal controls.
• A record of success in fundraising, grant development and relationship management with funders and donors.
• Knowledge of legislation and regulatory requirements affecting Ontario not-for-profits, charities, employers and community service organizations.
• Experience with accreditation, quality improvement or program evaluation is an asset.
• Canadian experience is not required.

Knowledge skills and personal attributes

• Strategic and systems thinking, paired with the ability to manage complex day-to-day operations.
• Strong financial, analytical and risk-management skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• An inclusive and supportive leadership approach that develops people and welcomes diverse perspectives.
• Integrity, transparency, discretion and sound judgement.
• Adaptability, initiative and a practical approach to solving problems in a changing environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and comfort learning and using client, donor and organizational database systems.
• A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility and Truth and Reconciliation.

Other requirements and working conditions

• A satisfactory vulnerable sector check.
• Reliable transportation for regular local travel.
• Primarily office-based work, with evening and weekend commitments for Board meetings, events and stakeholder engagement.
• Occasional low to moderate physical activity related to community events, including lifting materials weighing up to 9 kg or 20 lb.
• Frequent interaction with clients and caregivers, including people who may have complex health or social needs. The role requires compassion, professionalism and the ability to manage challenging situations appropriately.

How to apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume to recruitment@cmow.org with the subject line Executive Director Application. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We thank all applicants, but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

CMOW does not use artificial intelligence to screen, assess or select applicants during the recruitment process.

Our commitment to inclusion and accessibility

At Caledon Meals on Wheels, we believe in the strength and richness that diversity brings to our community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where individuals from all backgrounds are welcomed and valued for the perspectives, experiences and talents they bring.

We encourage applications from candidates of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, ages and backgrounds. CMOW is committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and where everyone feels respected and able to contribute their best.

CMOW is committed to a fair and accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process, please contact us at recruitment@cmow.org and we will work with you to meet your needs.