The Company
A leader in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions for care, our client is an employee-owned, B-Corp, social service organization that has been transforming lives for over 40 years. Their delivery of social services, including programs for children and families and assistance for individuals with complex needs, includes care plans and therapeutic services as well as community-based support, aimed at promoting the independence, and overall well-being of the clients they serve. Their dedication to creating a better society is reflected in the quality of their services and the impact they make in communities across Canada.
People who join this company, join a vibrant community where their contributions directly impact the lives of those they serve. Within the organization, diversity thrives, growth is nurtured, and success is a collective celebration. As part of the employee-owned structure, employees have the opportunity to invest in their future and participate in the company’s shared achievements, reinforcing a commitment to excellence and innovation. Joining them comes with comprehensive benefits, flexible work arrangements, and robust professional development opportunities.
The Position
Chief Operating Officer
Position Mandate
The Chief Operating Officer plays a crucial role in steering the operational strategies and implementation across the organization, aligning them with their core mission, vision, and goals. This position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is pivotal in enhancing the operational effectiveness and efficiencies of functional business units including HR, IT, Quality, and Communications.
Location and Travel
The head office is located in the Greater Vancouver area; the role can be hybrid with the ability to commute to the office and, as well, requires occasional travel to other company locations.
Position Contributions, and Impact
- Strategic Operational Leadership: In collaboration with the CEO, co-develop and implement operational strategies that support the overarching mission and objectives of the company. The COO is responsible for the management and enhancement of all functional business units, ensuring they support the delivery of innovative and effective programs and services that meet the evolving needs of our clients and communities.
- Process Optimization: Continuously streamline processes and systems to improve productivity, efficiency, and scalability. The COO ensures that operations are agile and responsive to the dynamic needs of the organization and the sectors we serve.
- Team Management and Development: Lead and inspire a diverse team of operational Directors and staff. The COO fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture that promotes innovation, excellence, and professional growth. This role involves mentoring team members and providing them with opportunities for professional development to enhance their skills and capabilities.
- Performance and Resource Management: Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess and enhance operational performance across departments. Collaborate with other executive team members to develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring optimal allocation and utilization of resources. The COO also leads initiatives for cost-efficiency without compromising the quality of service.
- Technology Integration and Management: Oversee the integration and optimization of technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency and service delivery. The COO ensures that existing technological infrastructures are effectively utilized and continuously evaluates new technologies that could enhance operational effectiveness.
- Internal and External Communication: Enhance internal communication strategies to ensure alignment and collaborative efforts across various departments. Externally, the COO assists in directing communication strategies that effectively convey the company’s brand, values, and visions to the public and relevant stakeholders.
- Risk Management: Proactively identify and manage risks that could impact operational stability and effectiveness. Implement strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure the organization’s resilience in facing operational challenges.
Candidate Profile
As the leader of a mission driven organization at a pivotal time in its history, the COO is an operational executor, who excels at managing operations to achieve strategic goals and growth objectives.
Background and Experience
- Industry Experience: Experience in a senior leadership role, ideally within the social services or a closely related industry with a proven track record of managing complex operations and leading diverse teams.
- Operational Management: Extensive experience implementing operational strategies to result in achieving business goals.
- Strategic Development: Experience participating in organizational strategic planning process with the ability to assess operational implementation of strategy.
- Performance Optimization: Skilled in setting and managing performance metrics (KPIs); experience in process improvement and implementing best practices across operational functions.
- Resource Management: Proven ability managing budgets and resources effectively, working collaboratively with financial officers to ensure fiscal responsibility while maximizing operational output.
- Technology Proficiency: Experience overseeing the integration and management of technology to improve operational efficiencies. Should have the foresight to leverage new technologies that support the organization’s strategic needs.
- Leadership and Team Development: Exceptional leadership qualities, capable of mentoring and developing a diverse team.
- Communication Skills: Strong internal and external communication abilities, with experience managing stakeholder relationships. Must be able to effectively convey the organization’s mission, strategies, and policies.
- Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks that could impact operational stability and effectiveness.
- Educational Background: A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Management, Human Resources, Information Technology, or a related field. An advanced degree such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent practical experience is highly preferred.
Core Competencies
- Operational Efficiency: Proficiency in managing and optimizing day-to-day operations across multiple departments, ensuring that processes are streamlined, resources are effectively utilized, and operations are scalable. Client Service Orientation: Deep understanding of the needs of the frontline staff with the ability to craft and design plans and communication to create change.
- People Management: Strong leadership skills that inspire and motivate teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement. This includes the ability to mentor and develop staff, manage team dynamics, and lead change initiatives.
- Financial Acumen: Capability to manage budgets, forecast financial needs, and work closely with financial officers to maintain fiscal health of the organization. Understanding the financial implications of strategic decisions and managing resources prudently.
- Organizational Acumen: Emotional intelligence and awareness to navigate organizational dynamics while fostering change and innovation within the context of an environment that requires safety and operational stability and predictability.
- Problem Solving and Decision-Making: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make informed decisions based on data, insights, and best practices. This involves identifying issues, generating solutions, and implementing changes to improve performance.
- Project Management: Process orientation and time management with the ability to organize and motivate teams to complete projects on time and on budget.
- Commitment to Social Impact: A genuine passion for making a positive impact on the community and improving the lives of individuals served by the company aligning with the organization’s commitment to creating a better society.
Other Requirements
- Clear Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving abstract.
- Access to a reliable vehicle for travel between multiple sites.
Values Alignment
- Empathy and Compassion: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, particularly in the context of providing social services, which is crucial for fostering an environment of care and support.
- Integrity and Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and being accountable for one’s actions, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness in all dealings within and outside the organization.
- Inclusivity and Diversity: Embracing diversity in all its forms and fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported.
- Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Seeking innovative solutions to challenges, promoting continuous improvement, and being open to change and new ideas to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Being able to cope with and adapt to changes or challenges, maintaining effectiveness in varying environments and with different tasks, responsibilities, or people.
- Professionalism and Excellence: Demonstrating professional conduct and striving for excellence in all aspects of work, including service delivery and interactions with colleagues and clients.
- Advocacy and Leadership in Community Development: Actively advocating for the needs and rights of clients and communities and taking a leadership role in community development initiatives.
- Sustainability and Long-term Planning: Committing to sustainable practices and long-term planning, ensuring that the organization can continue to fulfill its mission effectively for years to come.
Compensation and Benefits
The compensation range for this position is $135,000 to $160,000 annually, with the potential for a variable component based on organizational and personal KPIs. This range is based on market location and may vary depending on related background, experience, and competencies.
DEI and Accommodation Statement
The company is committed to fostering a workplace where diversity is valued, equity is sought, and inclusivity is practiced. They believe their strength lies in their diversity and that the varied experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of their employees drive success.
The company is an equal opportunity employer, and encourages applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, disabilities, and sexual orientations to apply. They are committed to providing an inclusive and respectful environment for all members of their staff and community.
SUBMIT INTEREST