Executive Director

Bridges Niagara; St. Catharines; Hybrid; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading settlement services provider in Niagara is seeking an Executive Director to drive strategic initiatives and oversee comprehensive programming for newcomers. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of management experience in the nonprofit sector and a strong understanding of the Canadian immigration system. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits, along with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Opportunities for professional growth

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years progressive management experience in settlement services or related nonprofit sector.
• Deep understanding of the Canadian immigration system and IRCC funding requirements.
• Experience supervising multicultural teams, including staff from newcomer backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Strategic Plan with Board engagement.
• Oversee comprehensive programming serving newcomers and refugees.
• Lead a multicultural team of 90+ across multiple locations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Bilingual/multilingual abilities

Relationship-building

Communication

Education

Post-secondary degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field

Job description

About Bridges Niagara

For over 50 years, we have been a leading settlement organization in the Niagara Region, serving 4,600+ clients annually from 128 countries. Recently re‑named from Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre, we are positioned to become the premier settlement services provider across the 12 municipalities of Niagara. Our comprehensive programs include settlement services, employment support, language training, community connections, wellness support, and specialized programs for vulnerable populations.

The Opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of settlement services in Niagara. With annual revenues exceeding $6.3M and a diverse team of dedicated professionals, you'll have the resources and support needed to drive meaningful impact.

What You'll Do

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement our next Strategic Plan with Board engagement; lead organizational transformation while maintaining our 55+ year legacy of excellence; position Bridges as the regional leader in settlement services innovation; build strategic partnerships with municipal partners and community stakeholders.
• Settlement Sector Excellence: Oversee comprehensive programming serving newcomers, refugees, immigrants, and temporary residents; drive innovation in trauma‑informed care, anti‑oppressive practices, and cultural competency; lead sector coordination activities and collaborative service delivery initiatives.
• Operational Leadership: Oversee annual budgets and diversified revenue streams; lead a multicultural team of 90+ (direct and indirect reports) across multiple locations; foster positive relationships with government, community and ethnocultural clubs.

What You Bring

• Education & Experience: Post‑secondary degree in Human Services, Social Work, Immigration Studies, Business Administration, or related field; minimum 5 years progressive management experience in settlement services or related nonprofit sector; deep understanding of Canadian immigration system and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) funding requirements; experience supervising multicultural teams, including staff from newcomer backgrounds (asset).
• Skillset Includes: Exceptional leadership qualities with proven ability to create and manage organizational change; bilingual/multilingual abilities (asset); advanced communication, strategic planning, and relationship‑building skills; authentic, compassionate approach with deep respect for EDI and cultural humility; experience with government contribution agreements and compliance requirements.
• Leadership Qualities: Adaptability (flexibility and versatility in changing work environments); ethical behavior (consistent ethical standards aligned with organizational values); relationship building; effective communication; creativity/innovation/entrepreneurial spirit (new and unique ways to improve operations and create opportunities); client focus; teamwork; leadership; decision‑making; organization; planning; problem solving.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and organizational budget.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health coverage, vacation, computer and mobile devices, statutory holidays, life insurance and professional growth opportunities.
• In‑office position with an opportunity to work from home.
• Opportunity to lead transformational change in a well‑established, respected organization.
• Collaborative work environment with a passionate, dedicated team.

A Day in the Life of … Executive Director

• Strategic Leadership & Governance: Periodic strategic planning with Board Chair, rebranding discussions, regional presentations, budget reviews and Board preparation.
• Team Management & Development: Regular team huddles with department managers, one‑on‑one meetings with staff, overseeing anti‑oppression training sessions and fostering psychologically safe workspaces.
• Government & Partner Relations: Regular communication with funders, meetings with mayors, councilors and community partners about service delivery, and collaborating with partner organizations like Niagara Health, United Way and Niagara College for expanded services.
• Direct Client Impact & Site Visits: Hands‑on involvement with newcomer families, witnessing client successes and celebrating client achievements.
• Program Innovation & Expansion: Developing and pitching new initiatives for potential program expansion and trauma‑informed care partnerships.
• Community Engagement & Celebration: Attending community events like Pride gatherings with 2SLGBTQIA+ program participants, balancing office work with meaningful community presence.

Ready to Build Bridges?

Join us in creating equitable, respectful, and welcoming communities for immigrants and newcomers in Niagara. Your leadership will impact thousands of lives while positioning us as a model for settlement excellence.

Application Deadline

Application deadline: The Hiring Committee will begin reviewing applications on November 7, 2025. This posting will remain open until 11:59 p.m., December 31, 2025 or until a suitable candidate is selected.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume, three professional references (including at least one Board Chair or equivalent), salary expectations and availability to begin the role. Email your application package to [e-mail].

Contact

Questions can be directed to Chair of Hiring Committee, Abdul Rahimi at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bridges Niagara embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all qualified persons. Our goal is to attract and engage highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences, perspectives and skill sets. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.