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THE ORGANIZATION
Our client was incorporated in 1994 following the privatization of the industry. Our client is a not for profit member organization that was formed to provide a unified voice for the industry in its dealing with all levels of government, the public, media and others with interests in the industry. Our client provides a code of ethics for members, a forum for the exchange of ideas, trends and initiatives with a view toward greater public service and industry well-being. Ultimately, the objective of our client is to ensure that the model for private retailers is sustained.

Our client currently represents more than 500 private retail locations. With a focus of supporting its current membership base through education, group buy programs, the provision of timely relevant information, and the mentality that the Association can accomplish more than the individual, our client has a mandate to increase its membership base.

THE POSITION
Reporting to a volunteer Board of Directors, the Executive Director will serve as the face of our client and its operational leader. In partnership with the Board, the Executive Director will ensure the accomplishment of the vision and mission; steward the accountability of our client to its stakeholders; provide overall management and leadership in implementing Board policy; and facilitate strong, positive relations with all stakeholders including, government representatives and officials, members, industry partners, staff, colleagues, volunteers , and outside agencies.

Key accountabilities include:

Government Relations / Lobbying

• Initiate and develop relationships with government officials and business organizations;
• Provide strategic advice to the Board regarding key stakeholder relations;
• Work with legislators, regulatory agencies, members, colleagues and volunteers to promote legislative and regulatory policies that address industry issues to the benefit of our client’s members;
• Maintain ongoing working relationships; the Commission, the Distribution Service company, and the Minister;
• Ensure MLA’s are informed of and supportive of our client and the Alberta model;
• Attend select legislative and government committee hearings, party conferences and other events;
• Undertake activities within the community that enhance the visibility of the our client;
• Represent our client on appropriate committees;
• Educate the Board on community development and effective lobbying;
• Arrange meetings with industry and government parties in co-operation with the Board Chair;
• Establish and maintain two-way communication with significant official bodies; and
• Maintain regular contact, in person and in writing, with politicians, civil servants, and/or staff in local authorities and regulatory bodies to brief them on our client’s work and concerns.

Implement Board Policy and Decisions

• Keep the Board informed, on a timely basis, of significant development in government policy, practices, protocol and relationships, non-governmental organization management, community development, lobbying, and the industry;
• Act as a resource to Board of Directors so that policy decisions are made on an informed basis;
• Gather, interpret and articulate information to Board about community trends and resources as they relate to enhancing the Board’s capacity for effective communication, decision-making and long-term and short-term planning;
• Provide guidance and advice to the Board on process issues such as establishing and interpreting terms of reference, decision-making and accountability; and
• Oversee the development and implementation of orientation for in-coming Board Members.

Management and Administration

• Bring the strategic plan of the Association to life through the engagement of those involved in its execution;
• Establish and maintain policies and procedures that are in accordance with the law and Board policy;
• Provide general oversight of all activities, manage the day-to-day operations, and assure the organization is operating in a smooth and efficient manner;
• Recommend a staffing structure and budget to the Board. In accordance with Board action, the Executive Director will recruit personnel, negotiate professional contracts, and ensure that appropriate salary structures are developed and maintained;
• Maintains confidentiality of all internal matters pertaining to the organization and its operations; and
• Develop and maintain appropriate job descriptions for all staff.

Financial Health

• Oversee the fiscal activities of our client including budgeting, reporting and audit;
• Maintain full awareness of the complete financial, statistical, and accounting records of our client;
• Ensure that operating results established in the annual budget are achieved and the control of operating expenses within budget;
• Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all financial accounting and reporting;
• Provide recommendations to the Board for any acquisitions or expenditures that are outside the approved budget;
• Authorize expenditures within the total budget; and
• Consider business opportunities that fit with our client’s vision and mission for the purpose of generating additional income and diversifying our client’s funding base.

The new Executive Director’s success will be determined by their ability to:

• Actively promote the Association and members to associated organizations, community groups, stakeholders and the public with a goal of increasing the membership base;
• Lead the Board in the planning and development of a strategic business plan, sales/marketing plan;
• Achieve key performance targets as laid out in the long-range and annual business and strategic plans;
• Manage the day-to-day business affairs of our client; and
• Ensure the consistent and organized coordination of all annual and special event activities and meetings.

THE INDIVIDUAL
Given the high profile, leading role this individual will be expected to play in achieving the objectives of our client, the Executive Director must convey a professional and positive image and attitude regarding our client and the industry; and demonstrate commitment to continued professional growth and development.

It is essential that the successful candidate possess the following core competencies, experience and attributes:

Candidate Core Competencies:

Commitment to Results - The Executive Director is a systems thinker who is customer focused and goal driven who will:

• Identify relevant information and help transform it into individual and organizational knowledge and learning;
• Be action-oriented and innovative;
• Translate broad goals into achievable steps;
• Anticipate and solve problems and take advantage of opportunities; and
• Is a self-starter and team player.

Stakeholder Relations - The Executive Director works to obtain goals through positive relationships with key stakeholders:

• Possess an appreciation and understanding of the industry and the people involved;
• Possess the ability to facilitate positive action while working in cooperation with others who share the same interests and initiatives;
• Communicate effectively and keeps stakeholders informed and involved; and
• Draw upon the strengths of others toward common goals.

Leading Change – The Executive Director will lead the organization through unchartered territory requiring the trust and support of stakeholders:

• Believe in our client’s vision, mission and values;
• Display integrity and model professional behavior;
• Deal effectively with demanding situations;
• Design and implement solutions;
• Influence others; and
• Empower others.

Business Acumen – As our client’s leader, the Executive Director must possess knowledge of and experience in management and administration:

• Knowledgeable in human resource management and finance;
• An excellent communicator (written and oral) and public speaker;
• Skilled at planning and evaluation;
• Knowledgeable of governance;
• Is skilled in making formal, persuasive presentations to groups; and
• Effectively address people from all segments of the community.

Ideal Personal Profile:

• A Bachelor Degree in Business or Political Science with a minimum of 5 years experience in a senior management or a government relations position is required;
• Experience leading a small team with limited resources;
• Hands on leader who understands policy development and lobbying;
• One who possesses excellent judgment, sound business acumen, and the ability to deal with competing demands;
• Seasoned negotiation skills and a diplomatic demeanor;
• A comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects of a successful operating enterprise.
• Superior interpersonal skills – a person who listens well, respects diversity of opinions and employs an open, clear and succinct communication style;
• A results oriented and decisive individual; and
• The knowledge, presence and contacts essential to establishing credibility and gaining support from stakeholder groups.

THE COMPENSATION
An excellent compensation package awaits the successful candidate.

LOCATION
Edmonton, Alberta

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT ANTARA SPITZIG (780) 432-5490 Ext. 407 OR KOREY JACKSON (780) 432-5490 Ext. 413 CONROY ROSS PARTNERS LIMITED

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