Executive Director / Social Planner

Potentia Human Resources Inc.; Vernon; Hybrid; CAD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent social planning organization is seeking an Executive Director / Social Planner to lead initiatives aimed at improving community welfare in Vernon, BC. This role involves collaboration with various stakeholders to address pressing social issues, requiring strong leadership, financial acumen, and a dedication to social equity. The ideal candidate will have a background in community development or urban planning, alongside exceptional communication and project management skills.

Benefits

Wellness & Sick Days

Lifestyle Account

Generous Vacation Time

RRSP Matching Program (up to 4% of gross salary)

Qualifications

• Experience in community development and social planning.
• Strong presentation skills to City Council.
• Experience working with IBPOC communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead community initiatives and oversee strategic projects.
• Manage financial budgets and monitor expenditures.
• Foster collaboration among non-profit and government entities.

Skills

Relationship-building

Collaboration

Financial acumen

Communication

Project management

Education

University degree in Community Development

Urban Planning or related field

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Our client The Social Planning Council for the North Okanagan (SPCNO) is dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents in the region. The society coordinates the Partners in Action model, focusing on areas such as homelessness, the toxic drug crisis, affordable housing, food security, Truth and Reconciliation, immigration, anti-racism and EDI (Equity Diversity and Inclusion).

The SPCNO is looking for a dynamic, self-driven Executive Director / Social Planner to spearhead community initiatives and deliver social planning services for the City of Vernon. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, as the successful candidate, you will play a pivotal role in cultivating strong partnerships and collaborating with non-profit organizations, government agencies, and community volunteers to address pressing social issues. You will be deeply passionate about community development, skilled at building meaningful relationships, and dedicated to creating lasting change for vulnerable and underrepresented populations. This position requires someone who can navigate evolving community landscapes and approach complex social challenges with a proactive, solution-focused mindset.

Responsibilities will include :

• Lead the Partners in Action Committees and oversee strategic community initiatives;
• Facilitate public education and awareness campaigns in conjunction with the Partners in Action Committees and Affordable Housing Committee;
• Foster collaboration between non-profit organizations, government and community partners to address social issues and community needs;
• Oversee the implementation of community strategies, including homelessness, harm reduction and immigration and settlement;
• Respond to urgent community issues as they arise using a collaborative approach;
• Oversee financial management, including budgets and expenditure monitoring in collaboration with the Board of Directors;
• Manage human, financial, and physical resources within allocated budgets;
• Prepare reports as required for the Board of Directors, City of Vernon, provincial and federal governments, and funding agencies;
• Support the board with policy development and strategic planning sessions;
• Secure funding and agency sustainability through grant applications and partnership development;
• Act as the spokesperson for SPCNO on social issues and community initiatives, maintaining positive relationships with media, community groups and government.

Requirements

• University degree in Community Development, Urban Planning, or related field;
• Prior experience in community development, social planning, or as an Executive Director;
• Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills, with experience working across diverse sectors;
• Experience working with IBPOC communities and commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, anti-racism, and EDI principles;
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, financial monitoring, and strategic planning;
• Experience in grant writing and proposal development;
• Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting to City Council and managing public relations;
• Strong project management and organizational abilities;
• Extensive knowledge of social planning, action plan development, and community engagement;
• Experience working with a Governance Board to align with organizational priorities;
• Familiarity with local government processes and navigating bureaucratic structures;
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
• Criminal record and background check required.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader passionate about social inclusion, socio-economic development, and community impact. The role averages 35 hours per week, with potential for additional hours as needed. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining in-office and remote work to accommodate shared office space. The compensation package includes an anticipated hourly rate of $41–$45, based on experience, along with the following benefits :

• Wellness & Sick Days
• Lifestyle Account
• Generous Vacation Time
• RRSP Matching Program (up to 4% of gross salary)

How to Apply :

If you are a dedicated leader with the ability to address complex social issues with a calm, diplomatic approach, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with SPCNO’s mission. This is your opportunity to lead meaningful initiatives and make a lasting impact in Vernon BC.