Organization:

Project Adult Literacy Society (PALS) is a non-profit organization that has been serving the Edmonton community since 1979. We believe that every person has the right to access services to improve their skills and be functionally literate. By providing access to relevant learning opportunities to adults, we allow them to take the next steps to create better opportunities for themselves and those around them.

We are guided by our values of dignity, inclusion, and respect. If these values are aligned to yours, consider joining our team.

Role Overview:

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management, operations and performance of PALS. This includes strategic planning, program oversight, financial stewardship, fund development, staff leadership, and community engagement. The Executive Director works closely with the Board to ensure strong governance, alignment with mission and values, and long-term organizational sustainability.

The strategic priorities for the Executive Director in the first year are:

• Strengthen strategic leadership and governance by supporting the Board and aligning organizational goals with the PALS mission.
• Enhance financial stewardship and diversify fundraising efforts to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Promote a positive workplace culture through effective staff management, development, and engagement.

Keys Areas of Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Serve as the primary advisor to the Board, supporting strategic planning and decision-making 
• Lead the development and implementation of organizational goals aligned with PALS’ mission
• Identify emerging trends, risks, and opportunities affecting adult literacy and community needs
• Foster a strong, collaborative relationship between the Board and staff
• Support Board operations, including meeting preparation, reporting, and policy development 
  

Financial Stewardship & Fund Development

• Provide overall financial leadership, ensuring responsible management of resources
• Work with the Board to develop and monitor budgets and financial plans and support the Board in its role in fundraising and resource development
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting to funders and stakeholders
• Support audits and maintain financial accountability
• Lead and support fundraising efforts, including grants, partnerships, and donor engagement
• Develop and implement diversified revenue strategies beyond grants, including individual giving, events, sponsorships, and community-based fundraising initiatives
• Strengthen donor relationships and build a culture of giving within the organization and broader community
• Explore diversified funding opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability

Human Resources Leadership

• Lead recruitment, supervision, and performance management of staff 
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture
• Support staff development through coaching, mentorship, and training
• Ensure compliance with employment standards and organizational policies
• Promote staff wellbeing, engagement, and retention 

Organizational Management

• Ensure effective daily operations and compliance with policies
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation within the organization

Program Leadership

• Oversee the development and evaluation of learner-centered programs
• Ensure programs address community needs and reflect best practices

Learning & Innovation

• Integrate emerging trends and technology to enhance adult literacy
• Support staff and volunteers in adopting new tools and approaches

Community Relations & Advocacy

• Act as spokesperson and build strong partnerships with stakeholders
• Promote awareness of adult literacy and adapt to community needs

Risk Management & Accountability

• Identify and address organizational risks while ensuring compliance
• Keep the Board informed of risks, challenges, and performance

Qualifications:

Education: Post-secondary education in Education, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field. A graduate degree is an asset.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit, adult education, or community-based organization
• Demonstrated success in financial stewardship, including developing and managing budgets, overseeing audits, ensuring compliance with funder requirements
• Track record of leading diversified fund development, including grant writing, donor cultivation, events, and partnership development
• Background in adult education, literacy, or learner centred program development, with experience overseeing program quality, evaluation, and continuous improvement
• Experience leading and developing staff teams, including recruitment, coaching, performance management, and fostering a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture
• Demonstrated ability to build strong community relationships within Edmonton and surrounding regions, including partnerships with nonprofits, funders, government, and community groups

Core Competencies

• Leadership: Clear, values-based leadership with the ability to guide people and systems
• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trust across stakeholders
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to connect day-to-day operations with long-term goals
• Financial Acumen: Confidence in managing budgets, funding agreements, and reporting
• Equity & Inclusion: Commitment to serving diverse learners with respect and cultural awareness
• Adult Learning: Strong understanding of adult education principles,
• Technology & Innovation: Ability to integrate technology and emerging tools, including AI, to support accessible, learner-centred programming

PALS strongly encourages applications from diverse candidates.

We would like to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates selected for a telephone prescreen will be contacted.