Program Manager (Member Experience)

Laing House; Halifax; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

An established nonprofit organization is seeking a passionate Program Manager to lead dynamic programs for youth experiencing mental health challenges. This pivotal role involves developing impactful strategies, overseeing member engagement, and fostering a supportive environment. Join a dedicated team committed to empowering young people and shaping a brighter future. If you are enthusiastic about making a meaningful difference in the lives of youth and thrive in a collaborative setting, this opportunity is perfect for you. Embrace the chance to contribute to a transformative mission and help create inclusive spaces for growth and recovery.

Benefits

Medical and Dental Coverage

RRSP Matching

Generous Paid Time Off

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• 3+ years in a management role with proven leadership skills.
• Experience working with youth facing mental health challenges.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies for member engagement.
• Lead and mentor a team to support youth effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Program Development

Community Engagement

Mental Health Knowledge

Education

Post-secondary degree in Social Work

Post-secondary diploma in Occupational Therapy

Job description

Job Title: Program Manager (Member Experience)

Reports To: Executive Director

Direct Reports: Community Support Workers, Program Assistants

Key Collaborators: Programming Team, Fund Development Manager

Location: Halifax, NS

Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Unionized Salary Expectation: $70,000-$85,000

This is an exciting time to join Laing House as we plan for a revitalized future. In August 2024, we made the strategic decision to pause operations to re-evaluate and reimagine our programs and structure. We are now in a pivotal rebuilding phase, and this role is key to shaping and supporting the reopening of Laing House. If you're passionate about youth mental health and energized by meaningful change, this is your opportunity to help lead a bold new chapter in our story.

About Laing House

Laing House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people aged 16-29 with lived experience of mental health challenges. Our philosophy, "Come as You Are”, drives our mission to create inclusive social hubs where members can access the resources they need for their mental health recovery while benefiting from a strong peer support network.

Our team collaborates with youth members to design holistic plans that focus on goal setting, life skills development, and resilience-building. At Laing House, we foster curiosity, confidence, and a deep sense of community. Our mental health recovery model includes one-on-one support, social programming, learning opportunities, food access initiatives, and leadership development.

Position Overview

The Program Manager (Member Experience and Wellness) plays a critical role in developing and delivering dynamic programs that empower youth (aged 16-29) living with mental illness. This role ensures all members feel welcomed, supported, and actively engaged in their recovery journey. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role oversees the member journey, develops impactful programs, and leads a dedicated team to support youth and young adults on their mental health journey.

Key Responsibilities

Member Engagement & Support

·Develop and implement strategies to recruit, onboard, and retain youth members.

·Oversee the member database and generate reports to track engagement and outcomes.

·Coordinate and contribute to member communication strategies.

·Cultivate a welcoming, inclusive, and empowering environment for all members.

Program Development & Management

• Develop, implement, and evaluate program standards, ensuring alignment with Laing House’s mission.
• Oversee a portfolio of programs supporting mental health recovery, including peer support, goal setting, life skills and healthy living
• Guide and support the member led Peer Advisory Committee and clubs.
• Ensure programs are trauma-informed, culturally responsive and member-driven.

Team Leadership & People Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team to support members effectively.
• Oversee hiring, onboarding, and training of new staff.
• Provide regular performance feedback and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment.
• In conjunction with the other program manager ensure the house is staffed appropriately

Strategic & Financial Responsibilities

• Develop and manage program budgets in collaboration with senior management.
• Contribute to the organization’s strategic plan by setting annual goals and objectives for assigned areas.
• Support fundraising and grant applications as needed to enhance program sustainability.

Qualifications & Key Competencies

• Education: Post-secondary degree or diploma in Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Recreation Therapy, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Certifications: Standard First Aid & CPR, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, ASIST (or commitment to obtain within four months of employment).
• Other Requirements: Satisfactory criminal record check, including vulnerable sector search and child abuse register check.
• Experience:
• Minimum 3 years in a management role, with proven leadership and team development skills.
• Professional experience working with youth and young adults with mental health challenges in a community setting.
• Knowledge of mental health recovery-oriented models.
• Strong background in program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Experience in community engagement and partnership management.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Skills & Attributes:

oExcellent communication and leadership abilities.

oAbility to navigate and lead through change.

oStrong professional boundaries and self-care practices.

oSelf-starter with a deep commitment to Laing House’s mission.

Working Conditions & What We Offer

·This role is based at Laing House in the heart of downtown Halifax. While the position is primarily in-person to support our vibrant community space, there is flexibility for remote work when appropriate.

·While Laing House is open Monday to Saturday from 12–8 PM, the typical hours for this position are Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM. Some flexibility is appreciated for occasional evenings, weekends, or on-call support to help keep our space running smoothly.

·We care deeply about staff well-being and are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package, which includes medical and dental coverage, RRSP matching, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, and more.

How to apply:

·To apply, please send one document that includes both your cover letter and resume to [e-mail]. We’d love to hear your story—tell us how your experiences, strengths, and values align with our mission in a thoughtful, personalized cover letter.

·Laing House is committed to building an equitable and diverse team that reflects the communities we serve and embodies our “Come as You Are” philosophy. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges. We also welcome and encourage candidates from equity-deserving groups to self-identify in their applications—including Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian, Black, Indigenous/First Nations, racialized, newcomer, 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and people with disabilities—who share our values and commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space.

·If you're invited to an interview and require any accommodations, just let us know by email—we’d be happy to make arrangements to support you.

·We’ll be reviewing applications as they come in, so if this role feels like a good fit, we encourage you to apply soon! The position will remain open until filled.

·If you have any questions about the opportunity, please reach out to Jenn Ross, Executive Director, at [e-mail]