Executive Director

Science Teachers’ Association of Ontario

Summary:

The Science Teachers’ Association of Ontario (STAO) Board of Directors is seeking an Executive Director to lead our volunteer team and to be the face of the organization within the science education community, and with key partners and stakeholders. The Executive Director will be responsible for strategic planning, day-to-day operational management, and working to achieve key objectives, as determined in collaboration with the volunteer Management Team and STAO Board of Directors. The STAO Board of Directors is searching for a leader with strong non-profit management experience and who is passionate about science education, to continue to expand our membership and provide leadership to our diverse community in Ontario.

Our Organization:

The Executive Director’s Responsibilities:

1. Reporting to the Board of Directors. The Executive Director:

• Supports the strategic plan, mission, vision, and values of the organization;
• Provides accurate and timely reports to the Board on the status of membership,
• operations, finances, and volunteer resources;
• Provides the Board with the information it requires to govern effectively; and
• Provides administrative support to the Board and its committees as required.

2. Leading the Management Team. The Executive Director:

• Conducts the work of the organization within the parameters and policies established by the Board;
• Leads the creation and expansion of new opportunities for membership growth, professional learning, resource development, marketing, as well as other opportunities as they arise;
• Manages the organization’s finances, including working with an external bookkeeper and coordinating the annual audit;
• Develops and implements plans for revenue generation, fundraising, and sponsorships to support the financial sustainability of STAO;
• Oversees the work of STAO’s volunteer Management Team, Committees, and several external vendors and consultants to execute STAO’s annual plan; and
• Oversees the communications work of the organization, including the website, the biweekly member newsletter, social media, the STAO blog, etc.

3. Organizational Leadership. The Executive Director:

• Exemplifies behaviours, actions, and attitudes that are consistent with STAO’s vision, mission, and values;
• Develops and maintains a supportive, inclusive, and engaging environment for STAO members and volunteers through regular meetings and communications;
• Provides leadership to all volunteers in a manner that encourages collaboration and supports the delivery of excellent science education in Ontario;
• Oversees development and implementation of policies and procedures which comply with legislated requirements and addresses the needs of staff and volunteers;
• Oversees recruitment, orientation, coordination, development, and evaluation of employees and volunteers;
• Identifies critical risks that may affect the organization, and plans, develops, and implements appropriate mitigation strategies; and
• Oversees the execution of professional learning events, awards ceremonies, volunteer engagement events, and STAO’s AGM.

4. External Relations. The Executive Director:

• Leads the organization in developing and maintaining relationships and partnerships with the community at large, and specifically organizations related to the mission of STAO;
• Maintains a positive working relationship with Ministry of Education representatives to advocate for member needs, provide expert advice on matters of science education, and secure funding opportunities; and
• Advocates for diversity, inclusion, and equity in science education in Ontario.

This position is a remote position that may be based anywhere within the GTHA. Due to the nature of this work and the requirement to work closely with volunteers (who are mostly teachers working during the day), the Executive Director will need to be available to work flexible hours, including frequent evenings and weekends. The STAO Board of Directors encourages a healthy work-life balance and will work with the chosen candidate to create a schedule that meets both the needs of the organization and the new Executive Director.

Qualifications: