Executive Director (food bank)

Executive Director – Harvest Share Community Food Programs

Position Overview:

As the Executive Director of Harvest Share Community Food Programs, you will lead the mission of improving access to healthy, nutritious food for individuals and families in need in the District of Parry Sound, while ensuring operational excellence and long-term sustainability. Your role is to act as the face of the organization, champion food security, and inspire staff, volunteers, and community partners to create meaningful impact.

Reports to: Board of Directors

Core Mandate:

• Leadership and Vision:
  • Continually refine and execute Harvest Share's strategic plan to ensure alignment with the organization's mission and values.
  • Inspire and guide the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers toward the achievement of shared objectives.
  • Act as a professional advisor to the Board on all aspects of the organization's activities.
  • Stay informed of emerging trends and opportunities in food security and the nonprofit sector to position Harvest Share as an innovative community leader.
• Community Engagement and Advocacy:
  • Serve as the primary representative of Harvest Share with government officials, funders, media, and community leaders.
  • Build and maintain strategic relationships with partner agencies, service organizations, and allied groups to advance the food bank's mission.
  • Advocate for the needs of food-insecure individuals and families, ensuring Harvest Share is a respected and credible voice on hunger-related issues.
  • Foster collaborative partnerships that strengthen the community's collective response to food insecurity.
• Program Excellence and Impact:
  • Oversee the planning, delivery, and evaluation of programs and services that meet the evolving needs of visitors.
  • Ensure all programs reflect the priorities of the Board and contribute meaningfully to the organization's mission.
  • Maintain a visitor-centred approach, ensuring dignity, respect, and a positive experience for all who access services.
  • Adapt programming based on community needs, available resources, and best practices in food banking.
• Financial Stewardship:
  • Maintain Harvest Share's financial health through prudent budgeting, expense management, and diversified revenue generation.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of strategic fundraising initiatives, including major gifts, corporate donations, grants, and in-kind contributions.
  • Ensure transparent and accurate financial reporting to the Board and stakeholders.
  • Identify and pursue funding opportunities that align with the organization's strategic direction.
  • Ensure compliance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements for registered charities, including the timely filing of the annual T3010 return.
  • Coordinate the completion of a professional audit following the close of each fiscal year, ensuring financial records meet regulatory and governance standards.
• Human Resources and Volunteer Leadership:
  • Provide effective leadership and supervision of staff, fostering a positive, inclusive, and safe workplace culture.
  • Oversee the recruitment, training, and recognition of volunteers to ensure meaningful engagement and alignment with organizational needs.
  • Ensure all personnel practices adhere to applicable legislation, organizational policies, and best practices.
  • Empower team members through coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• Operational Effectiveness:
  • Provide effective management of day-to-day operations, including food acquisition, inventory management, and facility oversight.
  • Ensure the organization adheres to its bylaws, policies, governance framework, and all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Identify and inform the Board of internal and external issues that are likely to affect the organization.
  • Leverage technology and best practices to streamline operations and enhance service delivery.
• Risk Management:
  • Identify and evaluate risks to the organization's people, property, finances, and reputation, and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
  • Ensure adequate insurance coverage is maintained and that the Board and staff understand its terms and limitations.

Performance Objectives:

• Strengthen Harvest Share's capacity to serve food-insecure community members effectively and with dignity.
• Achieve measurable growth in community partnerships and collaborative initiatives.
• Maintain a strong financial position through diversified and sustainable revenue streams.
• Deliver high-quality programs that create tangible impact for visitors.
• Cultivate a positive, engaged team of staff and volunteers who are aligned with the organization's mission.

Expectations:

As Executive Director, you are expected to:

• Demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all interactions.
• Proactively identify challenges and opportunities, addressing them with creativity and determination.
• Maintain open communication with the Board, providing regular updates on organizational performance and strategic progress.
• Embody the values and mission of Harvest Share, fostering trust and credibility within the community.
• Organize the Annual General Meeting and ensure compliance with all governance requirements.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Post-secondary education in social sciences, nonprofit management, community development, or a related field is an asset.
• Experience:
  • Five or more years of progressive management experience, preferably in a nonprofit or community-based organization.
  • Demonstrated success in strategic planning, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge and Skills:
  • Strong understanding of nonprofit governance, financial management, and human resources practices.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal and provincial legislation, including employment standards, health and safety, and charitable regulations.
  • Proficiency with technology, including office productivity tools, databases, and communication platforms.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to inspire and lead diverse teams.
  • Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
  • Adaptable, ethical, and client-focused with a commitment to community service.
  • Creative problem-solver who thrives in a collaborative environment.

Working Conditions

• The Executive Director position is an office-first hybrid, with flexibility to work from a home office on occasion. The nature of this role may require presence at various community locations to fulfill the organization's mission.
• While the position follows a standard work week, flexibility is essential. Evening and weekend availability will be required periodically to attend Board meetings, community events, and other engagements that advance Harvest Share's mission and visibility.