Job Title: Executive Director
Employer: Canadian Institute of Forestry – Institut forestier du Canada
Location: Remote (within Canada)

Reports To: The CIF-IFC Executive Committee
Position Type: Permanent
Start Date: Immediate start available
Compensation: 90K to $110K commensurate with experience

About CIF-IFC
The Canadian Institute of Forestry / Institut forestier du Canada (CIF-IFC) is a not-for-profit, member-based organization. Founded in 1908, the CIF-IFC is the oldest forest society in Canada, serving as the voice of forest practitioners representing foresters, forest technologists and technicians, ecologists, biologists, educators and many others with an interest in forests and forestry. cif-ifc.org

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: msymon@cif-ifc.org

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

Applications must be submitted via the above listed email; submissions through social media (or late submissions) will not be accepted.