Manager, Community Engagement

About this position

Dress for Success Toronto® is part of a global movement for change. We are a local affiliate of an international not-for-profit organization operating in over 150 cities in 30 countries. Since 2009, we have helped over 15,000 women in the GTA transition from unemployment to economic independence. We work together with agency partners, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and over 300 dedicated volunteers to create a real impact in women’s lives.

The mission of Dress for Success® is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success Toronto is operated by The Live to Give Relief Organization, Canadian Registered Charity No. 889786216RR0001.

We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic, community-minded leader to oversee the operations of our popular Boutique. This includes managing a robust Volunteer Program and supervising the intake of clothing donations from generous individuals and corporate groups. Reporting to the Director, Programs you will manage a team of two full-time coordinators and 1-2 part-time students to facilitate the flow of relevant inventory and the ongoing development of respectful, safe, and effective experiences for Clients and Volunteers. This role also works closely with the Manager, Programs to build and foster relationships with external agencies focused on supporting racialized and marginalized communities.

You will be a self-directed and compassionate individual with exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship building skills, along with an ability to convey a compelling narrative about the impact of our work. You will develop and meet monthly impact objectives, prioritize human-centered experiences, and contribute to a positive environment of teamwork and collaboration.

Core Competencies

• Program Management
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Community Development
• Staff and Student/Volunteer management
• Strategic Thinking & Proactive Decision-Making
• Working with Diverse Populations
• Reporting and Evaluation

• Work closely with Director, Programs to develop operational plans, budgets, and corporate relationships related to clothing drives
• Collaborate with Manager, Programs to streamline and increase Client and agency engagement
• Develop and deliver online and in person information sessions about DFST programs and services
• Evaluate and monitor Volunteer Program and donation strategies to enhance impact of annual objectives in accordance with the organization’s strategy and vision

• Support Volunteer Coordinator to execute on all stages of the Volunteer Engagement Cycle and identify strategies to increase volunteer involvement for individuals, agencies, and corporate groups including new and/or expanded roles and opportunities
• Support Boutique Coordinator in maintaining a steady flow of quality inventory, ongoing merchandising, and clear identification of relevant items based on Client needs
• Identify needs and oversee hiring process and supervision of placement students

• Advise DFS Toronto staff on key community engagement and sector trends
• Track expenses in line with program budgets and report quantitative metrics
• Contribute content for Volunteer and Client newsletters, web updates and resources

• Ability to work in-person Monday - Wednesday; evenings and weekends as needed
• 3-5 years non-profit sector, Community/Volunteer Engagement or equivalent experience
• Effective use of processes and systems to stay organized with demonstrated follow-through
• Demonstrated success managing staff and students or volunteers
• Clear and thoughtful communicator (online, over the phone, and in person)
• Understanding of how efficiently communicate insights/updates with staff members
• Passionate about supporting diverse women facing intersecting barriers
• Ability to work well independently while contributing to a team environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with ability to quickly learn new digital platforms
• Human Resources, mental health, social work, or Diversity, Equity & Inclusion training an asset