Executive Director

About Us The Niagara Safety Village is a non-profit educational facility located on the Niagara College Campus in Welland, Ontario. Since 2003, we have been providing engaging, hands‑on safety education to children, families, and community members across Niagara. In partnership with Niagara Regional Police Service, Regional Fire Services, and Niagara Emergency Medical Services, our professional instructors teach essential safety skills in both classroom and practical settings. Our unique miniature village allows participants to put what they learn into practice in a safe, controlled environment, helping build the knowledge and confidence they need to stay safe in the real world.

Job Description Job Summary Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and day‑to‑day management of Niagara Safety Village. This role provides leadership to staff and service providers, oversees the implementation of funding initiatives, and fosters partnerships with community organizations, service clubs, businesses, and other community partners to promote safety and accident prevention education. The Executive Director ensures the effective, efficient, and safe operation of the organization while advancing its mission and long‑term sustainability.

Qualifications Education

Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Social Services, Business Administration, Public Administration, Human Resources or other related fields.

Knowledge

Minimum of five (5) years' experience in a senior management role, with previous experience in a non‐profit organization.

Demonstrated experience in the effective administration and operation of a non‑profit organization.

Proven leadership, communication, strategic planning, organization, implementation, and evaluation skills.

Strong ability to build and maintain effective relationships with community partners.

Experience working collaboratively in a team‑based environment and managing competing priorities.

Experience managing operational and capital budgets.

Proven ability to lead initiatives, including organizational design, culture development, and change management.

Experience working within a Board governance environment.

Advanced knowledge of leadership and management principles, strategic planning, and program development and implementation.

Responsibilities Strategic Leadership and Governance Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides strategic leadership and serves as the primary advisor to the Board on organizational planning, governance, operations, and emerging issues.

In consultation with the Board of Directors, lead and support the facilitation, development, implementation, and evaluation of the organization's multi‑year strategic plan and annual business plan, ensuring alignment with the mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, corporate policies, and reporting obligations.

Support effective governance by providing timely, accurate, and comprehensive information to enable informed Board decision‑making.

Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and organizational sustainability.

Engagement of Community Partners Provide leadership in advancing organizational priorities through collaborative planning and community engagement.

Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Niagara Safety Village, promoting its mission and strengthening its presence throughout the community.

Assess current and emerging community needs and recommend enhancements to programs and services.

Collaborate with our partners, community organizations, government, funders, businesses, educational institutions, and other community partners to advance the mission of Niagara Safety Village.

Promote the organization's programs and services while enhancing community awareness of the Niagara Safety Village and its Programs.

Financial Stewardship Provide responsible financial leadership to ensure the organization's long‑term sustainability and accountability.

Develop, administer, and monitor annual operating and capital budgets in alignment with strategic priorities.

Ensure sound financial management, transparency, accountability, and compliance with organizational financial policies and applicable legislation.

Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and provide regular financial reports and recommendations to the Board.

Negotiate and manage contracts and agreements as necessary.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with municipal, regional, provincial, and federal governments to advance organizational priorities and identify funding opportunities.

Lead fun