Executive Director: Operations (1 Year Temporary Contract)

About this position

Disability Alliance BC (DABC) is a provincial not-for-profit organization. Founded in 1977, DABC’s mandate is to support people with all disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and as equal and full participants in the community. DABC champions issues impacting the lives of people with disabilities through its direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research, and publications.

DABC provides direct services to assist people with disabilities to access provincial and federal programs and a variety of other services. DABC also plays a leadership role in advocating for systemic change in various public policy domains, working with community stakeholders and government decision-makers using a collaborative and visionary approach to bring about positive change for the disability community.

DABC is led by a Board of Directors, all of whom have lived experience of disability. DABC uses a shared leadership model to employ two Executive Directors: an Executive Director of Operations and an Executive Director of Programs and Policy. The two Executive Directors (EDs) share responsibility for the whole organization, while also managing their own portfolio of expertise. The Board of Directors is now looking to temporarily fill the position of ED: Operations, to cover a 12-month maternity leave. This is a rare opportunity for an individual with vision, experience, and a passion for disability rights.

The Position

The ED: Operations is a fast paced and demanding position, and the successful candidate must be motivated to work towards positive social change for the disability community.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Managing a diverse range of issues with maturity, leadership, and vision.

• Work in close partnership with the ED: Programs and Policy.

• Lead a complex and dynamic team with individuals ranging in abilities.

• Respond in a thoughtful, mission focused, and timely manner to disability issues as they arise.

• Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors.

• Flexibility to work in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities and tight deadlines.

The Successful Candidate

Education and Experience:

• Post-secondary education in the social sciences, or a related discipline

• Minimum 5 years experience in a senior management position in the not-forprofit sector.

• Strong passion for disability rights and justice

• Superior oral and written communication skills, in addition to excellent organizational skills

• Advanced computer literacy, including social media platforms

• Ability to exercise a high degree of confidentiality, critical thinking, and judgment when dealing with issues that could have a significant impact on the image and credibility of DABC

The successful candidate must demonstrate they have the skills and experience to work calmly in a fast-paced and highly public role. These skills and experiences must include:

• Experience in fundraising, financial management, growing and maintaining strong funder/donor relations

• Human resources management experience

• Program/project development, operations, and management experience

• Experience with community and government relations

Working hours: This is a full-time position from mid-November 2020 until December 2021. The position will be primarily based out of DABC’s Vancouver office, and may also include some remote work until the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted.

DABC is an equal opportunity employer that promotes inclusive hiring practices and values diversity. We encourage applications from qualified applicants who are visible minority members, Indigenous persons, and of all sexual orientations, gender expressions and identities. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

If you are inspired to make a difference in the lives of persons with disabilities and believe you have the qualifications and experience for this position, please submit the following documents electronically to Pam Horton, Chair of DABC’s Board of Directors, at pam.horton@shaw.ca. 

• Cover letter and resume outlining your experience as it relates to this position

Please note only electronic applications will be accepted. No phone calls, or faxes please. While we thank all applicants for their interest, please note that only individuals shortlisted by the hiring committee will be contacted.