Position: Executive Director
Responsible to: Board of Directors
Allotted Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week)

Ministry Context

LIFE Recovery Association is a Christian not-for-profit society and registered charity established to support women in overcoming substance use disorders. The person called to this ministry must be in agreement with LIFE Recovery's Confession of Faith, mission, vision, and core values, and must have a passion for discipling women. The individual must also agree with our Code of Conduct/Ethics and Community Standards, and live a life consistent with them.

Job Summary – Primary Focus

The Executive Director is an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors and reports to and works under the direction of the Board.
In this role, the Executive Director is responsible for implementing strategic and operational plans that reflect the vision and mission of LIFE Recovery.

This role provides strategic oversight of programs, operations, communications, and fundraising. It includes empowering and supporting staff and volunteers in the women’s residential recovery homes and thrift store while fostering a collaborative, team-based environment. This also includes building strong relationships with current donors and engaging new supporters in the vision of LIFE Recovery.

Specific Responsibilities

• Acts as the official spokesperson for the organization.
• Demonstrates proficiency in maintaining regular contact with donors and potential donors through a systematic and sensitive approach.
• Facilitates and pursues funding opportunities and grant applications.
• Establishes and maintains open and effective communication and relationships with a diverse range of constituents, both within and outside of LIFE Recovery.
• Provides organizational leadership and coordination, ensuring staff and resources are in place and operating efficiently.
• Collaborates with the board to develop and advise on annual operating plans and budgets for approval and oversees the day-to-day operations.
• Oversees the completion, updating, and implementation of policies and procedures.
• Ensures that programs and services are delivered in accordance with LIFE Recovery’s mandate and operational plans.
• Provides strategic oversight of the thrift stores in collaboration with the Thrift Store Managers.
• Ensures timely and appropriate reporting and presentations to the Board of Directors.
• Oversees staff hiring and supports the human resource management of the organization, including annual staff evaluations.
• Participates in strategic planning processes with the Board.
• Collaborates with staff on the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of program activities.

Core Competencies

• Leadership – Visionary, focused, inspiring, delegating, and strategic.
• Commitment – Embraces the goals and philosophy of LIFE Recovery Association.
• Communication – Clearly and effectively communicates in written and oral forms; proficient in using technology to enhance communication and organizational efficiency.
• Confidence – Self-aware and emotionally intelligent; handles criticism and mistakes with integrity and resilience.
• Listening Skills – Actively listens and thoughtfully responds; tuned into people’s needs.
• Poise – Manages stress and workload effectively; treats others with respect and kindness.
• Pragmatism – Develops practical, realistic, and sensible solutions.
• Efficiency – Uses resources economically and effectively.
• Organization – Plans, schedules, prioritizes, and anticipates needs; builds confidence and inspires others; recognizes and uplifts the work of others.
• Social Agility – Astute; skilled at navigating spheres of influence and building consensus.

Statement of Relationships

The Executive Director works under the authority of the elected Board of Directors and reports directly to the Board. This individual collaborates closely with the Board to shape and support the strategic direction of the ministry. The Executive Director delegates responsibilities to senior staff and provides leadership and management to support them in their roles.

Time Allocation of Responsibilities

The estimated allocation of time for this role is as follows:

1. Marketing/Fundraising – 30%
2. Recovery House/Operational Matters – 15%
3. Staff Meetings/HR Functions – 15%
4. Board Meetings/Strategic Matters – 10%
5. Thrift Store/Volunteer Matters – 10%
6. Administrative/Financial Matters – 20%

Qualifications & Experience

1. Educational background in communications, arts, administration, leadership, or a related field from a recognized, accredited post-secondary institution or equivalent training and experience. Alternatively, significant leadership experience in a similar ministry is acceptable. Experience in a recovery program is an asset.
2. Demonstrated organizational leadership and management experience.
3. Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Sage) and online communication platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) for effective communication and budget management.
4. Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
5. Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential material and situations with discretion.
6. Skilled in personnel management and knowledgeable in employment standards.
7. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, for special events, church presentations, or recovery house emergencies.
8. Demonstrated public speaking ability with large and small groups across various age ranges.
9. Agreement with LIFE Recovery’s Confession of Faith, Code of Conduct, and Community Standards.
10. Committed to living according to the teachings of Christ.
11. Active participation in a local church community (Hebrews 10:24–25).