Executive Director, WindReach Farm
As the Executive Director, you are responsible for the functional leadership of WindReach Farm, and you are accountable to the Board of Directors for implementing the organization’s long-term strategic direction and guiding its successful evolution. Working with a team of dedicated program and service delivery staff, you will find ways to deliver cost-effective programs and services that maximize the use of the facilities for individuals with disabilities and other users; oversee the care and operation of all aspects of the Farm in a manner that is respectful of the mission and vision of WindReach, and the natural environment, and ensures the safety of all staff, volunteers, participants, visitors, and animals; and achieve operational/financial goals through effective management and innovative revenue generating practices.
Position is Filled for this Role
What We Do
WindReach Farm uses an accessible farm environment to provide therapeutic programs and services for individuals of all abilities. We offer learning and experiential opportunities with the goal of engaging with our participants in order to strengthen skills, independence, and physical well-being in a safe and nurturing environment.
Vision: WindReach Farm inspires, empowers and enriches lives.
Mission: WindReach Farm strives to enrich the lives of persons of all ages with disabilities or special needs by providing opportunities to enjoy experiences in farming, nature, outdoor recreation and other activities and to share those experiences with family and friends.
Values: Integrity, Ethics, Professionalism, Respect, Compassion, Quality, Accessibility
Opportunity
Executive Director
As the Executive Director you are responsible for the functional leadership of WindReach Farm, and you are accountable to the Board of Directors for implementing the organization’s long-term strategic direction and guiding its successful evolution. Working with a team of dedicated program and service delivery staff, you will find ways to deliver cost-effective programs and services that maximize the use of the facilities for individuals with disabilities and other users; oversee the care and operation of all aspects of the Farm in a manner that is respectful of the mission and vision of WindReach, and the natural environment, and ensures the safety of all staff, volunteers, participants, visitors, and animals; and achieve operational/financial goals through effective management and innovative revenue generating practices.
Looking Forward
Inspired by over 25 years of mission delivery, WindReach Farm is embarking on a future forward journey. Imagining a next level expression of program delivery and customer experience, creating and delivering on a vision driven by commitment and investment towards renewal and transformation.
Future Focused Leadership
- You are a transformative, change-focused leader, energized by the prospect of leading an exciting next chapter at WindReach Farm.
- You are a “practical visionary” - Honouring heritage and legacy you will, not just rivaling the past, envision and build a unique and inspired future.
- You are a confident, empathetic, and self-aware leader able to develop, equip, and empower all staff, volunteers and stakeholders towards the reimagination of WindReach Farm.
- You enjoy building authentic relationships, embracing teamwork and collaboration with others.
- You are committed to delivering high-level customer service and experience as you engage with clients and their families.
How Others Describe Your Leadership
- People-Focused and Personally Engaging
- Team Oriented, Energetic, and Highly Participatory
- Customer Experience Centred
- Entrepreneurial and Growth Focused
- Strategic Innovator
- Authentic Relationship Builder
- Collaborative and Adaptable
- Passionate About Vision and Mission
- Embraces Change and Complexity
Key Responsibilities
Leadership Responsibilities
- Together with the Board, define the future of WindReach, assessing and implementing the Farm’s strategic plan.
- Develops a strong working relationship with the Board of Directors, to support the mission and vision of the organization.
- Reports operational results to the Board of Directors based on established goals and plans.
- Management of volunteers plus 16 full time staff, as well as a handful of part-time and seasonal staff. Eight direct reports.
- Responsible for oversight of all recruitment, orientation, coordination, development, and evaluation of employees and volunteers.
- It is expected that the Executive Director will continually review the organizational structure and make recommendations on changes to enhance the operations of the Farm.
Stakeholder Relations and Business Development
- Leads the organization in developing and maintaining strong working relationships and partnerships with the community at large, and specifically other not for profits, community programs and organizations relating to WindReach Farm’s mandate, and works with and supports others (Board, Foundation leadership) in building relationships with the corporate sector, individual donors, community agencies, government, and funding providers.
- Builds strong relationships with clients and their families; providing opportunities for dialogue and feedback on service quality, gaps, needs and concerns.
- Leads the staff and volunteers in creating an atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of belonging for program participants and encourages their integration into the community or “family” of WindReach Farm and supports their involvement contributing alongside all volunteers of varying abilities.
- Develops strategies for increasing the service footprint and capacity of WindReach.
- Creates sound business development strategies to increase the operational capacity of WindReach, and increase awareness and profile of programming and services.
- Establishes an atmosphere that promotes effective communication both internally and externally.
- Ensures effective and appropriate use of volunteers;
- Represents the organization in all aspects of media and public relations, and acts as chief spokesperson with the community, government representatives, and funding partners.
- Understands and appreciates the unique evolution of WindReach Farm and the contribution of the Founder.
Program Planning & Organizational Development
- Empowers program coordinators in the planning, development, delivery, and evaluation of the Farm’s programs, services, and activities.
- Identifies new program opportunities that enhance the service output of the Farm, and align with the mission and vision of WindReach.
- Identifies critical risks that may affect the organization and plans, develops, and implements appropriate mitigation strategies.
- Leads the staff and volunteers in the implementation of the organization’s strategic plan.
- Monitors the development of the Farm’s operating policies and procedures, and ensures adherence to such policies.
- Oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring that the programs and services delivered are consistent with the mission, plans, and policies established by the Board.
- Ensures proper health and safety protocols are in place.
Human Resources
- Develops and maintains a supportive and inclusive organizational culture for staff and volunteers.
- Ensures human resources practices are consistent with, and support, the mission, vision, and guiding principles of the organization, human resources policies and procedures, and relevant employment legislation.
- Ensures consistency in the application of human resources policies and procedures through providing advice and guidance to staff and program leads;
- In conjunction with the Board, makes all final decisions on hiring and termination.
- Ensures that the responsibilities, authorities, and accountability of all direct reports are defined, understood, and followed. This includes coaching and regular supervision meetings, annual performance reviews, and assisting with ongoing professional development.
- Ensures all employees and volunteers have signed the appropriate WindReach policy documents.
Financial Planning and Management
- Responsible for the daily management of all financial matters regarding the Farm including income from programs and the management of expenses.
- Ensures financial practices are consistent with, and support, the mission, vision, and guiding principles of the organization, and adhere to applicable financial policies and procedures of the organization.
- Develops and monitors the annual business plan and operating budget through consultation with the Board to ensure that financial resources are available to meet organizational goals.
Landlord Duties
- Manages the recruitment of tenants to live in the farmhouse and complete night checks of the animals and property.
- Ensures that the tenants follow the conditions outlined in the lease.
- Oversees the removal of tenants that are not following the conditions of the lease.
Information & Social Media Links
Experience, Education and Skills
- Organizational leadership and team management experience in a senior executive role.
- Superior Oral and Written Communication, including Public Speaking.
- Superior Stakeholder Relations, including Government and Donors.
- Proven ability to innovate, drive change, and develop new approaches regarding capital investment, operations, and programming to enhance all of WindReach Farm’s initiatives.
- Demonstrated success in developing and driving sustainable business revenue, including results-focused financial and operational management.
- Experience working with a volunteer Board of Directors, collaboratively achieving governance excellence.
- Program-level volunteer engagement and management.
- Program development and implementation with special emphasis on client-based programming addressing social, physical, emotional and other special needs would be a significant asset.
- A graduate degree preferred (MBA ideal) or equivalent experience in leadership and management roles.
- Non-profit/Charity leadership/board experience an asset.
- Experience as a landlord would be an asset.
- MS Office/Google Suite/Website Skills.
Helpful Knowledge / Experience
- Marketing/Communications
- Project Management, Specifically Capital Project Management
- Media/Public Relations
- Risk Management
- Event Planning/Logistics
Before You Apply
Compensation
WindReach Farm will provide a six-figure salary and benefits package, appropriately negotiated with the candidate whose experience, capabilities, and qualifications align with the needs of the charity.
Given the nature of the organization and role, it is expected that the Executive Director will be available to attend and participate in work-related responsibilities, activities, and events, outside of standard office hours, including evenings and weekends. This includes, but is not limited to, Board meetings, donor meetings, and fundraising events.
Benefits to be Negotiated
Workplace Environment
- Given the nature of WindReach Farm’s programs and operations, the Executive Director is expected to work onsite at 312 Townline Road, Ashburn, Ontario.
Checks and Verifications
- The successful candidate will be required to provide a satisfactory Police and Vulnerable Sector Check dated within two (2) months from date of hire.
- Valid driver's license.
- Work related leadership references.
Apply For This Role
Cause Leadership Inc. is managing this leadership search on behalf
of WindReach Farm.
Individuals interested in being considered for this opportunity are invited to send your cover letter and resume to [email protected].
The search will remain open until a successful candidate is selected. We thank all interested parties but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
