Director, Shelter and Respite Services

**Employment Type**: Full-time, Permanent
**Department**: Shelter and Respite Services
**Union**: Excluded
**File #**: 24-SRS-37
**Posting Date**: October 11, 2024

**Position Summary**

As the Director, Shelter and Respite Services, you will lead the strategic direction, management, and coordination of our shelter and respite programs. This role is pivotal in ensuring the provision of safe, supportive, and empowering environments for individuals experiencing homelessness or in need of temporary respite care. The Director, Shelter and Respite will collaborate with the CEO, internal teams, community partners, and stakeholders to address the complex needs of our clients and advocate for sustainable solutions to homelessness.

**Duties and Responsibilities**
- Collaborate cross-functionally to develop and implement strategic plans for the shelter and respite services, aligning with the organization's mission, vision, and values.
- Oversee the day-to-day operation of our shelter and respite programs, ensuring they are safe, welcoming, and responsive to clients' needs.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and protocols to maintain high service delivery standards.
- Provide leadership and guidance to a multidisciplinary team of shelter staff, including frontline workers, case workers, and support staff.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations, offer professional development opportunities, and address any staffing issues as they arise.
- Establish performance metrics and targets for shelter and respite services in alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
- Monitor staff performance, provide regular feedback, and implement corrective action plans. Recognize and celebrate achievements to foster a positive work environment.
- Liaison between the organization and external stakeholders, including government agencies, community partners, funders, and advocacy groups.
- Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and public events to promote awareness of homelessness issues and advocate for policy change.
- Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of shelter facilities, ensuring they meet health, safety, and accessibility standards.
- Coordinate repairs, renovations, and upgrades as needed, collaborating with property management teams and contractors.
- Develop long-term plans for facility improvements and expansion to meet the growing needs of our community.
- Ensure compliance with Toronto Shelter and Respite Standards, Occupational Health and Safety regulations, the Employment Standards Act, and the Human Rights Code. Develop and implement policies and procedures to address legal requirements and uphold the rights and dignity of clients and staff.
- Manage the shelter and respite services budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency.
- Implement quality assurance measures to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of shelter and respite services.
- Collect and analyze data on client outcomes, program utilization, and satisfaction levels. Use findings to inform programmatic improvements and decision-making.
- Identify potential risks and challenges associated with shelter operations, such as health and safety concerns, staffing shortages, or funding fluctuations.
- Develop contingency plans and protocols to mitigate risks and ensure the continuity of services.
- Other duties as required.

**Qualifications**
- Bachelor's or Master’s degree in social work, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field or relevant work experience.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in the social services sector, focusing on emergency housing or homelessness prevention.
- Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles, and housing-first approaches.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and staff teams.
- Experience working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and marginalized populations.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and funding mechanisms related to Ontario's emergency housing and homelessness services.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with a deep understanding of the systemic barriers faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays to support 24/7 shelter operations.
- Must be qualified to work in Canada legally for the employer.
- Able to provide a Vulnerable Sector Screening check with a ‘Clear’ or satisfactory result that meets the operational requirements of the Agency.
- Must have up-to-date vaccinations against COVID-19 with a vaccine that has been approved for use in Canada.

Dixon Hall is dedicated to fostering an inclusive selection process and work environment, guided by their Race Relations and Employment Equity Policies. If selected for an interview, please inform the hiring ma