Location: Canada

Venture for Canada is a national charity dedicated to fostering the entrepreneurial skills and mindsets of young Canadians. The organization envisions a Canada where young people can equitably realize their entrepreneurial potential to build the most prosperous place in the world. Since its incorporation in 2013, Venture for Canada has facilitated over 12,000 work-integrated placements, supported more than 2,400 startups and SMEs, and supported over 7,000 young Canadians through its programs. Through immersive training, real-world experiences, and a supportive community, Venture for Canada equips emerging leaders with the tools they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy. As the organization looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate a generation of changemakers poised to drive economic growth and social impact across the country.​

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will provide dynamic, visionary, and strategic leadership, recognizing that Venture for Canada has transitioned beyond its early-stage startup phase and is now a more mature, mission-driven social enterprise. The CEO will lead strategic planning and execution, foster a culture of innovation and inclusion, and oversee the development of strong, sustainable funding models by expanding government, philanthropic, and corporate partnerships. Acting as VFC’s key ambassador to funders, policymakers, alumni, academia, and the broader innovation community, the CEO will build on a foundation of collaboration to strengthen community connections and drive impact, with a focus on scaling programs, enhancing national visibility, and deepening VFC’s influence across Canada. They will empower and support a high-performing, remote team, uphold a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure sound governance and long-term strategic alignment.

As the ideal candidate, you are an entrepreneurial and visionary leader with a passion for scaling purpose-driven organizations. You bring strategic foresight, operational excellence, and a reputation for integrity, coupled with strong political acumen, a non-partisan approach, and a sound understanding of public policy. A natural relationship builder, you excel at convening diverse stakeholders across sectors to mobilize collective action and secure sustainable partnerships. You are a compelling communicator and trusted advocate, with demonstrated success in fundraising and financial stewardship. As an inclusive and empowering leader, you promote a culture of transparency, equity, and collaboration, and offer strong governance experience in working with engaged Boards. Above all, you are inspired by the opportunity to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders and create lasting impact across Canada. Bilingualism, or a willingness to strengthen French language skills, is considered an asset.

If interested, or to learn more, please email Eric Lathrop, Maja Messam, and Mike Young () and please state the title of the position in the subject line of your e-mail.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those under consideration for the role will be contacted. VFC is strongly committed to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. VFC invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including members of racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.