We’re Looking for an Executive Director

Are you ready to lead a dynamic team, champion community interests, and shape the future of Toronto’s urban landscape? The Yonge + St. Clair BIA is seeking an Executive Director who is passionate about driving strategic change, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact. If this sounds like you, we invite you to explore the opportunity and apply today!

Job Description:

Reporting to the Yonge + St. Clair Board of Management through the Chair of the Board, the Executive Director is responsible for helping to develop and successfully execute the Yonge + St. Clair BIA’s strategic plan. This includes acting upon the motions of the board and of the advisement of the BIA Chair.

This position plays a critical role in developing the BIA, providing expert leadership to drive community initiatives, streetscape and economic development improvements, execution of programs, event and project management, communications and stakeholder relationships including forming productive coalitions, all in support of the BIA Board of Management.

Full Time
Salary starting at: $86K, commensurate on experience

Leadership:

• Strategic Direction: Set and communicate the long-term vision of the BIA, working closely with the Board of Directors to establish and implement a strategic plan that enhances the area’s economic vitality and community engagement.

• Daily Team Management: Lead daily team meetings to ensure all projects are progressing smoothly, addressing any operational or interpersonal challenges to maintain momentum.

• Team Guidance: Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Develop, and foster top talent to ensure the team is aligned with the BIA’s goals.

Innovation:

• Innovative Approaches: Identify and implement innovative programs (events, marketing, BIA-specific administration standards, streetscape) that enhance the BIA’s competitiveness and promote urban revitalization. Stay ahead of trends in community engagement, community advocacy and urban development.

Strategic Planning:

• Governance: Collaborate with the Board to manage all governance matters, implementing internal controls, project and staff work plans, and strategic initiatives that align with the BIA’s mission.

• Opportunity and Risk Management: Proactively identify, monitor and capitalize on opportunities (i.e. strategic initiatives, grants, public engagements) and foresee risks or crises to protect the best interests of the BIA. Lead the BIA through change and ensure resilience in the face of challenges.

• Financial Stewardship and Accuracy: Oversee budget management, interpret financial reports, and provide expert recommendations to the Board. Ensure transparency, timeliness and accountability in financial decision-making.

Engagement:

• Stakeholder Strategy: Develop and maintain a comprehensive engagement strategy to ensure that Board members, business owners, local residents, and city officials are informed, involved, and invested in the BIA’s initiatives.

• Advocacy: Lead local advocacy efforts and build coalitions to effectively represent the BIA’s strategic interests within the community. Act as the primary ambassador for the BIA, representing its interests in public forums and negotiations.

• Partnerships and Communications: Cultivate strong relationships with City officials, local businesses, community organizations, and other BIAs. 

Communications:

• Community Outreach: Foster strong relationships with BIA members, encouraging participation and open dialogue. Engage in regular communication with stakeholders to support the BIA’s strategic plan and community ties.

• Public Relations Strategy: Develop and execute public relations plans, including media coverage, content creation, and distribution of press releases and news alerts to promote the BIA’s initiatives.

Management:

• Innovative Marketing:  Lead the exploration and implementation of new marketing initiatives in collaboration with the Marketing/Events Committee, positioning the BIA as a vibrant, local destination that resonates with the community while remaining open to opportunities for broader appeal.

• Event Planning: Plan, promote, and execute events that align with the BIA’s goals, ensure compliance with relevant regulations and ensure valuable participation from local businesses and members.

• Streetscape Strategy: Champion the BIA’s streetscape strategy, ensuring that the area’s physical environment aligns with the community’s vision and enhances its appeal.

• Capital Projects: Oversee the submission and execution of capital cost-share requests, collaborating with the Streetscape Committee and the City of Toronto to implement streetscape initiatives.

Qualifications

+ University degree in Commerce, Urban Planning, Business, Government Relations, or a related field, or equivalent experience in similar sectors.

+ Proven management experience in business, non-profit, or municipal organizations, with a focus on driving change and executing strategic initiatives.

+ Previous experience with Business Improvement Areas (BIA) is a strong asset.

+ Demonstrated success in implementing change and leading initiatives with measurable outcomes.

+ Solid understanding of contemporary leadership and management principles.

+ Experience working with municipal government structures and processes is an asset.

+ Professional experience working directly with small businesses, fostering strong community and business relationships.

+ Experience with budgeting and financial reporting is advantageous.

+ Experience organizing and managing large-scale public events is preferred.

+ Proficiency in digital and traditional marketing strategies, including social media marketing and communications.

+ Self-starter with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.

+ Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills, with a focus on effective stakeholder engagement.

+ Proficient in Google Suite and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 

Join Us: 

Interested candidates should email their cover letter and resume with the subject line “Executive Director + (Your Full Name)” to info@yongestclair.ca no later than 5:00 PM EST on September 18, 2024