Autism Nova Scotia is a community-based organization that builds understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for Autistics/individuals on the autism spectrum and their families through leadership, advocacy, education, training, and programming across the lifespan. ANS has grown to be a national leader in providing social, educational, and employment supports for people with Autism, their families, caregivers, and professionals, delivering programming in ten communities across Nova Scotia through its Regional Autism Centers.

The role:

Accountable to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for ensuring strategic direction, operational leadership and long-term growth for Autism Nova Scotia through development of a talented and passionate team of employees, volunteers and partners committed to building awareness, acceptance and inclusion for our province’s autism community.

The Executive Director works closely with the Board to set strategic priorities, advocate with all levels of government, continue program innovation, and ensure the strength of the strategic relationships required to realize the aims of the organization. The Executive Director ensures the financial health of the organization and demonstrates the business acumen required to run an organization with a diversity of funding sources, dispersed delivery network and significant integration with other public services.

The ideal candidate brings:

• A passion for the cause along with non-profit or public sector leadership experience.
• Exceptional communication skills with a proven ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, partner organizations and the media.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with families and individuals within the disability community.
• Proven expertise in managing complex financial portfolios, including grants, budget allocations, and reporting requirements. You are well versed in the philanthropic, project-based and funding realities of our sector.
• Solution-orientation and the promotion of innovative programs which capitalize on resource sharing possible with partnerships.
• A track record of displaying integrity, confidence, transparency, and empathy in professional settings.

Preference for candidates with previous experience advocating for people with autism or neurodivergence. Barring this, a demonstrated willingness to learn, engage with the community, and quickly develop a deep understanding of autism and its complexities is crucial.

Autism Nova Scotia and KBRS will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation in order to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact or communicate your needs to the recruitment professional named in the job description.