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- Tasks: Lead and manage a charitable organisation supporting families with exceptional learning needs.
- Company: Oak Bridge, a growing charity dedicated to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and commitment to pay equity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in executive leadership and strong fundraising skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace; all backgrounds encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 100000 ÂŁ per year.
About Oak Bridge
Oak Bridge is a charitable organization that offers comprehensive services for families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other exceptional learning needs across their lifespan. Oak Bridge Academy was established in 2018 and has undergone substantial growth over the years and now serves approximately 100 students and their families. Given our expertise and the great need that remains within Waterloo Region, we recently expanded our services to include Oak Bridge Clinical Services and Oak Bridge Community Services.
The Academy provides a blended therapeutic and academic setting that offers an inclusive and engaging education program tailored to each learner. Clinical Services offers professional, evidence-based therapeutic support that enhances students’ academic, social and emotional development. Community Services delivers outreach, training, and enrichment opportunities to families and the broader community, supporting exceptional learners.
Overview of Executive Director Position
We are seeking an Executive Director (ED) to provide leadership and strategic management of our organization as we expand our services and continue to grow and serve the needs of children and families in our community. The ED works closely and collaboratively with leaders in the organization, including the Academy Principal, the Director of Clinical and Community Services, and the Chief Financial Officer. The ED will work with the Board of Directors and associated sub-committees, and ultimately shape the day-to-day operations and the future of Oak Bridge.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & Organizational Management: The ED leads the development and execution of Oak Bridge’s strategic plan in partnership with senior leadership members and the Board of Directors. The ED oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring alignment with Oak Bridge’s mission, values, and long‑term goals. The ED fosters a team‑based, collaborative culture across all levels of the organization.
- Financial Oversight and Fundraising Strategy: The ED establishes a multi‑year financial plan that focuses on growth and sustainability. The ED creates a fundraising strategy that includes finding and managing funding sources, including donors and government grants/programs. The ED is expected to maintain relationships with existing donors and to establish and nurture relationships with new donors. The ED also works closely with the Principal, the CFO, and the Board Finance and Fundraising sub‑committees to create and monitor the yearly budget to ensure the organization is run efficiently and effectively.
- Community Engagement & Advocacy: The ED is the face of Oak Bridge, building and nurturing relationships with community partners, government agencies, and the broader not‑for‑profit sector. The ED represents Oak Bridge in public relations and communications, advocating for the needs of students and families.
- Human Resources & Organizational Health: The ED is responsible for managing all Human Resources. The ED is expected to monitor the health of the organization and to ensure compliance with Human Resource policies, procedures, and processes.
- Board Liaison: The ED is the primary conduit between the Board of Directors and the organization, providing monthly updates on the execution of the strategic plan and key developments.
Required Qualifications
- Authentic passion and enthusiasm for progressive education and life‑long learning
- Skills and attributes that align with Oak Bridge’s mission and philosophy.
- Experience in an executive leadership role at a charitable organization
- Strong relationship building and networking skills with an established network in the not‑for‑profit ecosystem
- Demonstrated fundraising experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in the education sector
- Experience liaising / lobbying government
- Experience in location scouting and selection and/or commercial real estate
Diversity & Inclusion
We are focused on building a diverse and inclusive workforce. If you’re excited about this role, but do not meet 100% of the qualifications listed above, we encourage you to apply. Oak Bridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetics or any other basis forbidden under federal, provincial, or local law.
Compensation
Salary Range: CA $90,000 - $145,000/year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Oak Bridge offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package and is committed to pay equity.
Executive Director in Cambridge employer: Rise People
Contact Detail:
Rise People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the not-for-profit sector and let them know you're on the hunt for an Executive Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in community events related to education and autism support. This will not only boost your visibility but also show your genuine passion for the cause. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential collaborators and stakeholders!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from showcasing your fundraising experience. Prepare a few success stories that highlight how you’ve built relationships with donors and secured funding. This is key for the Executive Director role at Oak Bridge!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Oak Bridge team and making a difference in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for progressive education and supporting families shine through. We want to see your authentic passion for the mission of Oak Bridge, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in executive leadership roles, especially within charitable organisations. We’re looking for skills that align with our values, so connect your past roles to what we do at Oak Bridge.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Oak Bridge team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rise People
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, dive deep into Oak Bridge's mission and values. Understand how they align with your own beliefs and experiences. This will help you articulate why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Executive Director, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in a charitable or educational context. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you've fostered a positive organisational culture.
✨Fundraising Know-How
Brush up on your fundraising strategies and successes. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've secured funding in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability to sustain and grow Oak Bridge’s financial health.
✨Engage with Community Insights
Research the local community and its needs, particularly regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder and exceptional learning needs. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with community partners and advocate for families, showcasing your understanding of the broader not-for-profit landscape.
