Executive Director

WE ARE HIRING: Executive Director

Rainbow Riders is a registered charity in the heart of St. John’s, NL, dedicated to providing equine-assisted experiences to children with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children and their families through therapeutic riding, recreation, and competition. We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Executive Director to lead our organization, collaborate with the Board of Directors, and ensure that our equine programs continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.

POSITION OVERVIEW

As the Executive Director of Rainbow Riders, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the organization’s strategic direction, financial sustainability, and program excellence. You will build and maintain relationships with the Board, staff, volunteers, clients, and donors to cultivate a culture of inclusion, philanthropy, and community engagement.

This role requires a balance of hands-on leadership and strategic oversight, ensuring that Rainbow Riders remains a leader in equine-assisted services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

BENEFITS

• Medical benefits, flexible hours, and a supportive, casual work environment
• Opportunities for leadership development and networking within the nonprofit and equine-assisted therapy sectors

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Implement and uphold Board policies, ensuring strategic objectives are met
• Serve as a key liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization
• Provide transparent reporting on organizational performance, opportunities, and challenges

Financial & Administrative Management

• Oversee budget development and financial management and ensure operating results established in the annual budget are achieved and operation expenses are within budget
• Manage daily administrative operations, including overseeing staff, policies, and procedures to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture

Facilities & Program Oversight

• Ensure the proper maintenance, safety, and functionality of Rainbow Riders’ facilities, including stables, riding areas, and administrative spaces.
• Oversee program development and delivery, ensuring high-quality equine-assisted services that meet the needs of participants

Fund Development

• Maintain relationships with funding partners and seek new funding opportunities through grants, sponsorships, and community partnerships
• Develop and execute fundraising campaigns to ensure long-term sustainability

Community Engagement & Advocacy

• Strengthen community partnerships to advance Rainbow Riders’ mission and fundraising efforts
• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, increasing public awareness and engagement
• Advocate for equine-assisted services and their benefits to children with diverse abilities

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: Minimum 2 years in a similar leadership role or 5 years of progressive management experience in a nonprofit or community-driven organization

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field

Certifications: Certificate in Fundraising Management (preferred but not required)

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong background in accounting, legal compliance, and administrative operations.
• Proven success in event planning, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach.
• Strong fundraising abilities, with a history of securing grants, sponsorships, and donations.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff and volunteers.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

JOIN OUR TEAM

Rainbow Riders is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage all qualified applicants, regardless of gender, race, age, sexuality, or disability, to apply.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to rainbowriders@topsail.ca with the subject line: Executive Director Application.

We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Application Deadline: April 18^th, 2025