Executive Director, Colony of Avalon Foundation Inc.
We seek an entrepreneurial and creative leader to guide our organization into the next phase of our development.
The Colony of Avalon Foundation Inc.(CoA) is a non-profit,charitable organization located in Ferryland, Newfoundland, approximately one hour south of St. John’s. Established in 1994, our current facilities and programming include a professional archaeological program (including collections management and conservation), a visitors’ centre and giftshop, re-created 17th-century kitchen and gardens, plus school and public programming. Today, we are recognized as one of Newfoundland’s anchor heritage attractions (for more information, head to www.colonyofavalon.ca).
In 2013, the CoA’s Board of Directors adopted a new strategic plan that identified goals for financial sustainability, increased relevance and audience growth. Additionally, the CoA is actively planning for 2021, which will mark the 400th anniversary of the founding of the original Colony of Avalon by Lord Baltimore in 1621. We have ambitious plans for this milestone anniversary including significant capital projects and a renewal of our visitor experience. The CoA seeks a leader with the vision, confidence and expertise required to achieve these goals.
Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors of the Colony of Avalon Foundation, the Executive Director will be responsible for the leadership and oversight of the CoA, including:
• Operations - Manage CoA’s activities, staff, services and operations; prepare and maintain records; write organizational policies; document the CoA’s operations in accordance with the law and best practices; maintain physical plant and identify capital improvement needs.
• Financial Management - Develop and manage the CoA’s budget; assure compliance with contractual agreements and legal or program requirements; administer revenue, grants and other site funds; meet regularly with the CoA’s Board to ensure effective financial planning and management.
• Strategic Leadership - Prepare, develop, and implement strategies and initiatives to achieve long-range plans and advance the CoA’s mission. Assess organizational needs and develop goals, objectives, and performance measures.
• Fund Development – Work with the CoA’s Board and external expertise to establish development initiatives and play a supporting role in fundraising. Assist in the identification and development of strategic, revenue-producing partnerships, research and prepare grant applications, and maintain relationships with key funders.
• Human Resources – Maintain/update operating plan which identifies staffing and volunteer needs. Select, assign, train and supervise staff and volunteers. Promote and expand volunteer participation.
• Visitor Experience - Advise and assist in the development, implementation and monitoring of public and educational programming as identified in the strategic plan.
• Communications - Seek out and cultivate strategic and programmatic partnerships with other heritage organizations, local businesses and community groups to build capacity and audience. Inform the public of the CoA’s operations, services and activities; prepare informational materials including press releases; ensure effective distribution of marketing collateral.
• Board Relations - Provide Board and committee members with information and support while maintaining engagement.
Qualifications
Our ideal candidate possesses:
• The ability to manage significant financial and human resources
• An entrepreneurial approach
• Enthusiasm for new ideas
• The ability to build processes that support innovation
• A willingness to find original solutions to the complex challenges of sustainability and relevance
• Strategic vision
• Management experience
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
You’re able to work independently, to prioritize, and to execute on time and on budget. You’re also skilled at interpersonal relationships, motivating others, and building internal and external relationships around a shared vision.
You’ll have a degree in an appropriate discipline or equivalent combination of education and at least 5 years increasing responsibility in a similar organization. Prior experience in nonprofit management is desirable. However, the Colony is open to candidates from non-traditional backgrounds (e.g. an entrepreneurial venture and/or small business management). If you think you have what it takes to lead our organization, we want to hear from you. Please note, technical expertise in archaeology or collections management is not a requirement.
Working Conditions
This is a full-time, professional position. The Colony of Avalon is open to the public from May - October. During our visitor season, work will be performed at the Colony’s offices in Ferryland with regular office hours. Some additional night and weekend work will be required (e.g during special events, board meetings, etc.). The Colony is open to considering alternative, off-site work arrangements during our off-season.
Compensation
Competitive compensation, commensurate with experience.
Applications and Inquiries
Please submit a letter, resumé and three professional references no later than 4:00 pm, Friday, February 6th by e-mail to info@colonyofavalon.ca. Inquiries can be directed to info@colonyofavalon.ca or 709-432-3200.
