Operations Director

About the National Farmers Union - Ontario

The NFU-O is an accredited not-for-profit provincial farmer organization representing thousands of farmers, working to educate and advocate for the interests and needs of all farmers, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable agricultural future for the province. Our mission is to develop and advance economic, social, environmental, health and wellness policies for farmers through collective actions that promote food sovereignty, sustainability, and local agricultural systems. NFU - O serves as Region 3 of the National Farmers Union of Canada (NFU) and is made up of numerous Locals throughout the province. Together with farmers, citizens, and allies, we advance a more just, equitable, and sustainable food system.

Role Summary

The Operations Director is responsible for financial management, staff leadership and overseeing the day-to-day operations of NFU-O as outlined in annual work plans and strategic priorities as directed by the NFU-O Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities

Finance & Administration: Manage day-to-day financial affairs; prepare annual budgets with the Treasurer; oversee and facilitate annual audit; sign contracts and agreements on behalf of the organization; apply for and oversee grant funding as directed by the Board.

HR & Organizational Strategy: Lead the recruitment, retention, and professional development of a high-performing staff team while fostering a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture; develop annual work plans, and undertake annual performance reviews.

Board & Governance: Coordinate and record minutes of board meetings; coordinate Board members availability for media requests; oversee the planning, organization and execution of annual and special member meetings.

Membership Services & Development: Oversee membership recruitment and retention in keeping with the NFU-O strategic priorities; Coordinate annual membership reporting and an annual membership development plan with staff and the Membership Development Committee

Necessary Skills, Qualifications, and Requirements

• 3-5 years of experience in non-profit directing or upper management
• Demonstrated financial literacy, organizational skills and proficiency in digital collaboration tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to supervise staff and lead collaborative teams
• Strong commitment to community building and collaboration, within and between organizations
• Grant writing and project management experience
• Familiarity with Ontario Agricultural sector and experience in food system advocacy and policy work an asset

Salary and Time Commitment

This is a full time, permanent position with a 1-year probationary period.

Salary: $65,000 - $73,500 based on experience

Vacation: 3 weeks of paid vacation annually, plus an annual office closure between Christmas and New Year.

Benefits: Comprehensive medical and dental benefits package (following a 3-month eligibility period).

To apply

Send your cover letter detailing how your skills, interest and experience fit with this position, along with your resume, in PDF format by our first intake date of May 5, 2026 to careers@nfuontario.ca with the subject line “Name - Operations Director”

Only those applicants invited for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please. This job posting will remain active until a suitable candidate is hired.

NFU-O is a collaborative and team-oriented work environment. As a grassroots farm member organization, we know our strength comes from diversity and we are committed to creating and sustaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels that they belong. We encourage applicants of diverse race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, religion, ability, sexual orientation, and gender expression. The NFU-O will provide support and accommodation in its recruitment process that considers an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodations during the interview process, please include them with your application.