Executive Director

Lead. Influence. Grow. Shape the future of business in Cowichan.

The Opportunity

Are you a visionary, community-minded leader ready to make a lasting impact in one of

Vancouver Island’s most vibrant regions? The Duncan Cowichan Chamber of

Commerce is seeking a dynamic Executive Director to lead the organization into its next

chapter of growth, influence, prosperity and community impact.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for the overall

leadership, strategy, and operations of both the Chamber and the Cowichan Regional

Visitor Centre. This role serves as the primary voice of the business community and

plays a key role in regional advocacy, partnership building, and economic development.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected, long-established organization while living

and working in the Cowichan Valley, often referred to as “Canada’s Provence” for its

wineries, outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and exceptional quality of life.

Target start date: August 1, 2026.

About the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1908, the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce is the largest business

advocacy and networking organization in the Cowichan Valley. Representing more than

650 member businesses across retail, hospitality, construction, professional services,

agriculture, tourism, and more, the Chamber is the principal voice of business in the

region.

Guided by its mission to Build a Strong Community Through Strength in Business, the

Chamber delivers value through advocacy, professional development, marketing,

networking, and signature events such as the Black-Tie Business Achievement Awards

and the Dine & Sip Cowichan Festival.

In addition to core Chamber operations, the organization manages the Cowichan

Regional Visitor Centre, welcoming more than 25,000 visitors annually and supporting

tourism promotion across the region. This dual mandate creates a diverse and

rewarding leadership role with impact across business and tourism.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

Provide strong, forward-looking leadership and implement the Board-approved

strategic plan. Drive organizational performance across all programs, services, and

initiatives while identifying opportunities to grow membership, partnerships, and

revenue.

Advocacy and Government Relations

Serve as the Chamber’s primary spokesperson and lead advocacy efforts at municipal,

provincial, and federal levels. Build trusted relationships with government, Indigenous

partners, business leaders, and community stakeholders. Collaborate with regional

and provincial Chamber networks, including the BC Chamber of Commerce.

Membership and Community Engagement

Strengthen member recruitment, retention, and engagement through meaningful

programming, services, and connection opportunities. Maintain a visible community

presence and ensure the Chamber remains relevant, responsive, and member focused.

Event Planning and Execution

Oversee the planning and delivery of signature events, including the Black-Tie Business

Achievement Awards and Dine & Sip Cowichan Festival, as well as networking events,

workshops, and community programs. Manage budgets, sponsorships, vendors, and

logistics to ensure high-quality, impactful events.

Operations and Financial Oversight

Lead day-to-day operations including finance, human resources, and administration.

Ensure financial sustainability through effective budgeting, sound internal controls, and

transparent reporting. Work closely with the Treasurer and Board to manage and report

on the annual budget.

Visitor Centre Oversight

Provide leadership for the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre, ensuring an exceptional

visitor experience and alignment with regional tourism priorities. Support partnerships

and initiatives that promote the Cowichan Valley as a premier destination.

Team Leadership

Lead, mentor, and support staff and volunteers while fostering a collaborative,

inclusive, and high-performing organizational culture.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate brings a combination of leadership experience, strategic insight,

and strong community engagement skills:

• A minimum of 3 years of senior leadership experience in a chamber, association,

nonprofit, tourism, or related environment

• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, operations, and organizational

growth

• Experience working with Boards of Directors in a governance setting
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills
• Proven stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and government relations experience
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking abilities
• Experience in membership growth, event planning, or tourism is an asset
• Post-secondary education in business, public administration, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field is preferred; a graduate degree (MPA, MBA, or equivalent) is considered an asset
• Knowledge of the Cowichan region is considered an asset

Compensation and Benefits

The Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce offers a competitive compensation

package, including:

• Salary range of $80,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience
• Health and dental benefits, no waiting period
• Paid vacation 6%, 3 weeks and flexible work arrangements
• Professional development support

How to Apply

Email: ***email_hidden***

Subject Line: Executive Director Application

Application Deadline: June 12, 2026

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be

contacted. No phone calls, please.

Help us build a stronger, more connected Cowichan. Your leadership starts here.

The Chamber respectfully acknowledges that they are located on the unceded territory of the Cowichan, part of the Coast Salish, Hul’qu’minum Language dialect.