About Yaletown House

Yaletown House is a respected, not-for-profit long-term care home dedicated to person-centred care, dignity, and community connection. We are seeking a Director, Communications & Community Relations to join our Leadership Team and provide senior-level leadership in communications, community engagement, staff recognition, and fundraising for both Yaletown House Society and the Yaletown House Foundation.

Yaletown House is home to 127 vulnerable seniors with advanced health care challenges. The population ranges in age from 55 to 98 years, with the majority in their 80’s and includes seniors who are physically and mentally frail, older adults with brain injuries and early onset dementia or stroke impairment, persons with addictions, and individuals with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Since opening in 1985, the Yaletown House Team has cared for over 1,700 individuals and provided peace of mind to their immediate and extended families. The team at Yaletown House comprises of dedicated professionals across nursing, care, support services, recreation, and administration. Alongside its skilled staff and leaders, the organization is supported by a vibrant community that includes families, neighbours, and volunteers, all of whom are integral members of the Yaletown House family.

To learn more, please visit the Yaletown House’s website: www.yaletown.org

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director, Communications & Community Relations to join our leadership team. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director leads all communications, community relations, staff engagement, and fundraising activities. This role is responsible for growing and sustaining donor support, strengthening Yaletown House’s public profile, and fostering a positive and connected workplace culture.

The Director will work closely with Foundation Board members, volunteers, donors, staff, residents, families, and community partners to advance the mission, vision, and long-term sustainability of Yaletown House.

This role requires exceptional fundraising connections and skills, communication skills, computer and social media skills, strategic thinking, and a passion for enhancing the lives of seniors in long-term care.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Donor Relations

• Lead the development and execution of annual fundraising strategies and campaigns
• Cultivate and steward donor relationships including major, memorial, planned and corporate gifts
• Research, prepare, and submit grant and funding applications
• Oversee donor recognition programs and all fundraising events
• Ensure accurate charitable receipting and compliance with all regulatory requirements
• Manage Provincial Gaming applications and reporting

Communications & Community Engagement

• Develop and implement comprehensive internal and external communication strategies
• Develop electronic newsletters, publications, website content, and digital communications
• Enhance Yaletown House’s public and community profile through media, events, and partnerships
• Represent the organization at community and stakeholder events

Staff Recognition & Engagement

• Lead staff recognition and engagement initiatives
• Chair the Human Resources Team and coordinate recognition events, prizes, and donor-supported initiatives
• Support the Leadership Team with creating staff orientation and education materials

Leadership, Planning & Accountability

Participate as a key member of the Leadership Team

• Develop and manage departmental budgets and contracts
• Prepare reports for the Executive Director and Society and Foundation Boards
• Support continuous quality improvement through performance measurement and reporting

Qualifications

Education:

• University degree in Communications, Public Relations, English, or related field.
• Fundraising education from recognized programs.
• Membership in relevant professional associations preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years in fundraising and community relations, preferably in healthcare or long-term care.
• Minimum 10 years in senior leadership roles with proven success in strategic communications and donor development.
• Expertise in event planning, budgeting, and volunteer coordination.

Skills & Abilities:

• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic fundraising initiatives, including donor engagement, sponsorship acquisition, and community partnership building.
• Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under tight deadlines.
• Strategic thinker with strong organizational and project management abilities
• Confident leader who thrives in a collaborative, unionized healthcare environment
• Knowledge of healthcare best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Commitment to person-centred care and seniors’ wellbeing
• Proficiency with related software applications and IT systems.

Compensation:

• Compensation is set in accordance with HEABC and PSEC guidelines, with performance-based increases.

Why Join Us?

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors and their families.
• Work in a collaborative, supportive environment that values innovation and excellence.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.

Hours:

• 24 to 30 hours per week

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Discounted or free food
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Vision care