Executive Director

The Camrose Regional Exhibition (CRE) is a premier regional organization dedicated to celebrating agriculture, culture, and community in the Camrose area. For over 100 years, CRE has served as a cornerstone of the region, delivering exhibitions, events, and programs that educate, connect, and inspire. We are recognized for our commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and meaningful community engagement.

As a forward-thinking organization, CRE thrives on strong leadership and strategic vision. We are seeking a senior professional who can drive organizational growth, enhance community impact, and elevate the quality of experiences we provide. Our team is collaborative, high-performing, and deeply committed to advancing CRE’s mission while fostering sustainable development and long-term regional influence. Join us in shaping the future of one of Alberta’s most respected community institutions.

Position Overview

The Executive Director is responsible for elevating and promoting the CRE brand in the community and surrounding areas, developing strong partnerships and relationships. They ensure that all strategies and operational plans are aligned to achieve our mission, vision and values, and deliver IT experiences to our community, clients and guests.

A relocation package may be available for the right candidate, based on experience and business needs.

Accountabilities

Leadership

• Lead the full employee lifecycle and foster a culture of safety, integrity, service excellence, and results.
• Serve as primary liaison to the Board and lead strategic planning and execution of short- and long-term goals.
• Communicate plans clearly, motivate employees, and ensure compliance with all laws and safety requirements.
• Promote innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all departments.
• Provide guidance on escalated employee and client issues and maintain positive, professional communication.
• Oversee external consultants supporting IT, HR, marketing, grants, and other initiatives.
• Lead annual business planning and budgeting with the leadership and finance teams.
• Manage CRE’s P&L performance and adjust plans to meet revenue and profitability targets.
• Oversee gaming-related administrative activities.
• Identify and secure grants to support strategic and operational needs.
• Review and approve contracts, maintain standard templates, and engage legal counsel when needed.
• Serve as the primary contact for legal matters and work with the Board to assess and mitigate organizational risks.

Marketing & Business Development

• Lead strategic sales planning to grow the client base and revenue.
• Support staff with complex quotes and approve pricing aligned with standards.
• Build strong client relationships; attend key meetings and events.
• Oversee CRM/sales tools and collaborate on marketing plans and brand visibility.
• Conduct market analysis to identify new opportunities for programming and services.

Programming & Partnerships

• Oversee CRE programming and evaluate events to identify improvements or new opportunities.
• Manage collaboration partnerships and protect CRE’s interests and brand.
• Coordinate successful partner-produced events.

Government Relations

• Build relationships with government representatives to promote CRE’s work and the value of agricultural societies.
• Participate in community, government, and regional agricultural society meetings to advocate for CRE.

Operations

• Oversee major purchases to ensure competitive sourcing.
• Support the Operations Manager with staffing and training needs.
• Attend events to provide leadership, support the team, and engage with clients and guests.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Board President.

Experience Requirements

• 10+ years’ experience in events, agriculture, or related industries, including large-scale event management (5,000+).
• 8+ years in progressive leadership roles and 5+ years working with a Board of Directors (non-profit preferred).
• Experience in government relations with municipal and provincial officials.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning in leadership, non-profit management, and event best practices.
• Strong business and financial acumen, including budgeting, pricing, and P&L oversight.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft applications.

Key Attributes

• Strong understanding of non-profit values and governance.
• Inspiring leader skilled in coaching, mentoring, engagement, and team development.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, negotiation, and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Highly professional, ethical, and confidential with exceptional communication skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and time-management capabilities.
• Client-focused, collaborative, and committed to delivering high-quality outcomes.
• Able to balance short-term targets with long-term strategic goals.
• Safety-focused with the ability to motivate others to work safely.

Thank you for your interest in the position and for taking the time to submit your application. We appreciate the effort involved in applying and the interest shown in joining our team.

Please note that only candidates whose qualifications and experience closely align with the requirements of the role will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process. We wish you every success in your ongoing job search.