Executive Director – Canadian Institute of Forestry

Manitoba Eco Network; St. Jones Within; Hybrid; CAD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental organization is looking for an Executive Director to oversee operations, ensure financial health, and guide strategic growth. The role requires a strong leader with experience in non-profit management and excellent communication skills, dedicated to sustainability and stakeholder engagement in the forestry sector.

Benefits

Paid vacation

Extended health benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing budgets, fundraising, and grant writing.
• Strong background working with Boards, volunteers, and government bodies.
• Familiarity with the Canadian forestry sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and align operations with the Institute’s goals.
• Manage the approved annual budget with fiscal responsibility.
• Explore and develop new funding models and revenue streams.

Skills

Leadership

Financial Acumen

Communication Skills

Negotiation

Education

3+ years of executive or senior management experience

Tools

Office technology and virtual communication tools

Job description

Executive Director – Canadian Institute of Forestry

About the position

Job Title:

Job Title:

Executive Director – Canadian Institute of Forestry

Rate of Pay:

90K to $110K commensurate with experience

Job Title: Executive Director
Employer: Canadian Institute of Forestry – Institut forestier du Canada
Reports To: The CIF-IFC Executive Committee
Position Type: Permanent
Location: Remote (within Canada)
Start Date: Immediate start available
Compensation: 90K to $110K commensurate with experience

Job Purpose

The Executive Director leads the Canadian Institute of Forestry / Institut forestier du Canada
(CIF-IFC), guiding the organization through strategic growth and operational excellence. This role ensures the long-term sustainability of the Institute through sound governance, financial stewardship, and stakeholder engagement.
The Executive Director works closely with a small team, the Executive Committee, and a broad national network of members, volunteers and partners. They are accountable to the Board of Directors and collaborate with committees, staff, members, sponsors, and regions across Canada.

Duties & Responsibilities

Overall Responsibilities:
Leadership and Governance
• Lead strategic planning and align operations with the Institute’s goals
• Set a strong ethical and collaborative culture across the organization
• Act as the primary spokesperson and represent the Institute in public
Financial Oversight
• Manage the approved annual budget with fiscal responsibility
• Provide timely and accurate financial reports to the Board
• Ensure compliance with legal, tax, and accounting standards
Revenue and Partnerships
• Explore and develop new funding models and revenue streams
• Oversee fundraising activities and sponsorship initiatives
• Maintain strong relationships with donors, clients, and partners
Membership and Board Engagement
• Foster clear, consistent communication with members and the Board
• Promote member feedback and enhance programs and services
• Support Board decisions and ensure smooth governance operations

Staff Management and Operations
• Oversee daily operations and manage the internal team
• Build a positive workplace culture and encourage staff development
• Ensure programs and services run efficiently and effectively
Perform other related duties.
Qualifications
• Proven experience managing budgets, fundraising, and grant writing
• 3+ years of executive or senior management experience, ideally in non-profit or
forestry-related roles
• Strong background working with Boards, volunteers, and government bodies
• Familiarity with the Canadian forestry sector
• Experience in project planning, evaluation, and reporting
• Proficient in office technology and virtual communication tools
• English required, French an asset

Core Competencies
• Strategic leadership and team management
• Strong financial acumen and risk management
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to build consensus and foster collaboration
• High initiative, adaptability, and sound judgment
• Excellent negotiation and presentation skills

Working Conditions
• Full-time, remote position with core hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to
Friday
• Paid vacation and extended health benefits provided
• Occasional travel and overnight stays required
• Must be available during off-hours for urgent matters
• High-pressure decision-making may be required in certain situations

Individuals with the requisite qualifications are invited to apply by submitting a CV and cover letter stating how they meet the position requirements. Please submit no more than four (4) pages total.
All applications can be submitted via email in confidence to Margaret Symon, President, CIF-IFC at [e-mail] . While we thank all individuals who apply, only candidates who are being considered for interview will be contacted.

Closing Date for Applications: Monday, July 21, 2025