Youth Empowerment

Youth Empowerment & Support Services CanadaPermanent, Full-timeJob detailsJob typePermanentFull-timeShift and scheduleMonday to FridayLocationCanadaBenefitsPulled from the full

job description
Employee assistance programExtended health careOn-site parkingFull

job description
Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) is currently seeking a qualified Full-Time Permanent Chief Programs Officer (CPO). This position is onsite in Edmonton, Alberta. We welcome applicants from across Canada who are willing to relocate.
What We Do:YESS is a not-for-profit agency working with youth facing difficult realities. Based in Edmonton, our Youth Support Centre (YSC) provides immediate and low-barrier 24/7 sleep support and individualized wrap-around supports for young people aged 15 -24.
We work collaboratively within a network of care focused on the prevention of youth homelessness by providing youth with the necessary supports to stabilize their housing, improve their wellbeing, build life skills, connect with community, and avoid re-entry into homelessness.
At YESS, we care about the well-being of our team. Our onsite dedicated Wellness Practitioner supports staff through challenges, provide guidance on stress management, and promote overall health and balance. Whether it’s a quick check-in, a confidential conversation, or resources to help you thrive, our Wellness Practitioner is here to ensure you feel supported both personally and professionally.
Job SummaryThe Chief Programs Officer (CPO) is a hands-on executive leader who drives the design, delivery, and evolution of YESS’ youth-serving programs. Reporting directly to the President & CEO and serving as a key member of the Executive Team, the CPO leads the strategic direction, integration, and performance of all YESS youth focused programming.
Rooted in a deep understanding of youth work and community systems, the CPO ensures that every YESS service is trauma-informed, evidence-based, and responsive to the voices and needs of youth. This role is both strategic and relational, shaping the future of youth services while fostering authentic partnerships with staff, government, and the broader community.
The CPO plays a critical role in building a culture of learning, accountability, and connection, ensuring that YESS continues to be a leader and collaborator in supporting youth in crisis and creating pathways to healing and independence.
Reports to: President & Chief Executive OfficerHybrid: Four days on-site at Youth Support Centre (YSC) (9310–82 Ave, Edmonton, AB) and Admin Office (17511–108 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB).
Work Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility to work outside these hours as needed to visit YSC as the Programs Department Head or attend external meetings.
Strategic Leadership and PlanningLead the strategic design and evolution of all YESS youth focused programing to align with the organization’s mission and five-year roadmap.
Translate vision into clear, measurable strategies that deliver meaningful outcomes for youth and families.
Champion program innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring all initiatives reflect leading practices in trauma-informed care, prevention, and supporting youth in crisis.
Advise the President & CEO on service trends, system change opportunities, and risk mitigation related to program delivery.
Serve as a senior thought partner in shaping the organization’s strategy, culture, and long-term sustainability.
Program Excellence and Youth ImpactHold executive accountability for all program design, implementation, and evaluation across YESS sites, ensuring alignment with accreditation standards, values, and youth voice.
Foster a culture of data-informed decision-making, using key performance indicators (KPIs) and outcomes to improve service quality and demonstrate community impact.
Ensure programs are responsive to the diversity of youth experiences, including identity, trauma history, and systemic barriers.
Encourage and support frontline innovation; empowering teams to test, learn, and implement promising practices.
Lead and empower a multidisciplinary team that supports youth in crisis through coordinated, evidence-informed, and relationship-centered programming that strengthens outcomes and community connections.
Cultivate cross-sector partnerships to co-design and pilot cutting-edge initiatives that address emerging needs and expand YESS’ reach and impact.
Embed continuous learning and professional development within program teams to strengthen expertise, adaptability, and excellence in youth engagement and outcomes.
Fiscal Management and Risk OversightMaintain oversight of annual budget for programs ensuring fiscal responsibility, transparency, and sustainability.
Partner with Finance and Marketing & Development teams to align funding opportunities with program goals.
Oversee safe and effective management of all YESS programming, ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.
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