Executive Director

GoodWork Environmental Jobs; Central Ontario; On-site; CAD 95,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional conservation organization in Ontario is seeking an Executive Director to provide visionary leadership and strategic direction. The role includes management of staff and programs, fundraising, and engagement with community stakeholders. Candidates should have strong leadership experience in the non-profit sector, exceptional communication skills, and a Bachelor's degree. The position offers a salary ranging from $95,000 to $110,000 along with benefits and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Health benefits

Retirement investment program

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in the non-profit or charitable sector.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience negotiating and completing land acquisition transactions is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the Conservancy's strategic plan for land protection.
• Oversee fundraising activities and build relationships with donors.
• Communicate regularly with the Board regarding operations.

Skills

Leadership experience in non-profit sector

Fundraising and donor relations

Financial management skills

Exceptional communication abilities

Experience managing teams

Negotiation skills for land acquisitions

Familiarity with Ontario's environmental context

Education

Bachelor's degree

Graduate degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Job Posting

• Position: Executive Director
• Organization: The Couchiching Conservancy
• Location: Grant’s Woods, 1485 Division Rd W, Severn, ON
• Reports to: Board of Directors
• Duration: Permanent, Full-Time
• Deadline: January 13, 2026
• Start Date: May 1, 2026
• Compensation: $95,000-$110,000

About The Couchiching Conservancy

The Couchiching Conservancy is a charitable land trust with a mission to protect nature for future generations. Since 1993, we have worked with landowners, donors, volunteers, and conservation partners to permanently protect over 15,000 acres of ecologically significant habitat in our region. With 11 full‑time staff, hundreds of volunteers, and a growing base of members and donors, the Conservancy is recognized as one of Ontario’s leading regional land trusts.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) provides visionary leadership and strategic direction. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED is responsible for advancing the Conservancy’s mission through effective management of staff and programs, financial sustainability, community engagement, and a long-term conservation strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

• Lead the implementation of the Conservancy’s strategic plan and long‑term vision for land protection & stewardship in the Couchiching region.
• Oversee land acquisition and protection projects from negotiation to completion.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and mission‑driven workplace culture among staff and volunteers.
• Represent the Conservancy as a regional conservation leader and partner, engaging with landowners, Indigenous communities, conservation organizations, and government.

Fundraising and External Relations

• Oversee and participate in all aspects of fundraising, including major gifts, planned giving, grants, and multi‑year campaigns.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, supporters, and community stakeholders.
• Serve as a visible and trusted ambassador, articulating the mission and inspiring public support.

Governance and Board Relations

• Work closely with the Board to support effective governance, policy development, and strategic decision‑making, particularly on land acquisitions.
• Communicate regularly and transparently with the Board regarding operations, challenges, and opportunities.

Organizational and Financial Management

• Provide leadership and support to a passionate and skilled team of 11 full‑time staff and an active volunteer community.
• Ensure sound financial management, including annual budgeting, forecasting, and reporting to the Board.
• Oversee all operations and ensure compliance with charitable regulations and Canadian Land Trust Standards and Practices.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in the non‑profit or charitable sector; experience in land conservation or environmental sector is a strong asset.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and external communications.
• Strong financial management, budgeting, and organizational development skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience managing teams and fostering an equitable, inclusive, and positive workplace.
• Experience negotiating and completing land acquisition transactions an asset.
• Familiarity with Ontario’s environmental and land‑use context, including conservation easements, land stewardship, and community partnerships.
• Bachelor’s degree required; graduate degree or equivalent experience preferred.

Compensation And Benefits

The Couchiching Conservancy offers a competitive salary in the range of $95,000‑110,000 along with a health benefit and retirement investment program, and professional development opportunities.

Working Conditions

• Work location: Grant’s Woods, 1485 Division Rd W, Severn, ON
• Travel: required to attend meetings and events and visit CC properties
• Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week; may be required to work beyond regular work hours to attend a variety of meetings, events and programs
• Site visits: visit and assess remote and rugged areas on CC properties

How To Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to [e-mail] with the subject line “Executive Director Application – [Your Name]” by January 13, 2026.

The Couchiching Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building an inclusive culture that reflects the communities we serve and the landscapes we protect. Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.