General Manager, Employment and Immigrant Services

**General Manager, Employment and Immigrant Services**

**Location**

Employment and Immigrant Services Office
- St. Catharines, Thorold and Niagara Falls, various locations across the Region as needed

**Pay**

$82,500.00-$95,000.00 per year reflective of qualifications; Health and Dental Benefits, Pension Plan, paid vacation, YMCA Membership; and other YMCA program discounts

**Employment Type**

Full-time (40 hours per week), Permanent, Hybrid Office Work environment, Hours may include evenings and weekends

**Placement Date**

April 2025

**Why Work for the YMCA?**

The YMCA of Niagara is a mission-driven organization committed to fueling a healthy, connected, and engaged Niagara. Our presence in over 100 program sites has been impacting the community with dedication and purpose for over 150 years.

Our legacy in the community is a testament to the transformative work we do. We serve a diverse range of individuals and families, with a commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and the wellbeing of all. As we move forward, we are embracing a revitalized approach to meet the evolving needs of the community and actively contribute to transforming lives across Niagara.

Guided by our shared values - advocacy, caring, health, honesty, inclusiveness, respect, advocacy, and responsibility - the YMCA provides our employees with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals and the health of our communities.

Our dynamic team is dedicated to maintaining our growth trajectory though continuously adapting and innovating our services and programs to meet the changing landscape in Niagara.

**Nature and Scope**

The General Manager of Employment and Newcomer Services (GM) is a strategic leader responsible for the oversight, growth, and continuous improvement of government-funded and other employment and settlement support programs at the YMCA of Niagara. This role represents the YMCA as a leader, innovator, and trusted partner in delivering high-impact, community-centred services that drive equitable outcomes for job seekers, newcomers, and employers.

The GM is accountable for ensuring the quality, compliance, and effectiveness of all Employment and Newcomer Services (ENS) programs. The portfolio currently includes 11 key programs; Leading a high-performing team of 3 direct reports and 75 staff members, the GM ensures program excellence across a diverse network of service locations, including 3 main offices and 30+ itinerant sites.

A critical component of this role involves proactively researching and securing new funding streams, fostering strategic partnerships, and influencing policy at the local, regional, provincial, and federal levels. The GM ensures that the team stays ahead of evolving labour market trends, economic shifts, and immigration policies to deliver innovative, responsive, and data-driven services that position the YMCA as a leader in employment and settlement services.

**Key Responsibilities**:
**Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development**:

- Lead the strategic planning and future direction of Employment and Newcomer Services in collaboration with the COO.
- Design, execute, and refine the long-term vision for EIS programs that aligns with the YMCA’s mission, strategic plans, and community needs.
- Ensure that YMCA of Niagara is recognized as a sector leader and advocate in employment and settlement services, driving innovation, community impact, and systemic change.
- Represent the YMCA in government consultations, policy discussions, and industry working groups to shape the future of employment and settlement services.
- Identify, assess, and pursue funding opportunities to sustain and grow services, including preparing and submitting Call for Proposals for government and private-sector grants.

**Operational Excellence & Program Oversight**:

- Oversee the effective execution of all ENS programs, ensuring compliance with contractual, legislative, and quality standards.
- Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and performance metrics to enhance service delivery, participant outcomes, and organizational sustainability.
- Maintain accountabilities for all financial, performance, and participation targets, ensuring programs are fiscally sound, client-cantered, and high-impact.
- Oversee data management and reporting systems (currently three government-mandated platforms) to ensure accuracy, compliance, and actionable insights.
- Lead continuous quality improvement efforts, including program audits, business planning, and evidence-based decision-making.
- Ensure that all relevant policies, procedures, and practices comply with applicable legislation, contracts, and service standards.

**Team Leadership & People Development**:

- Provide visionary leadership to a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence.
- Lead, mentor, and develop senior managers, supporting their efforts in recruitment, training, coa