Executive Director, Industry Relations

Executive Director, Industry RelationsLocation: Thornhill, ONType: Full-timeDescription:Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA)
Thornhill, ON L3T 7W8Executive Director, Industry RelationsFull-time positionHybrid role based in
Thornhill, Ontario (GTA)Approximately
20% domestic and international travelAre you a seasoned automotive industry professional with strong strategic thinking and relationship-building skills? Do you understand the dynamics between automobile manufacturers and dealerships and enjoy representing industry interests at a senior level?We’re looking for an experienced leader who can strengthen industry partnerships, anticipate emerging trends, and help shape strategies that support Canada's automotive retail sector.We’re the
Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA)
— the national association representing franchised new car and truck dealerships across Canada since 1941. Through our advocacy, member services, and programs, and industry leadership, we support dealerships and the broader automotive retail industry.Come join our team.The Role
Reporting to the President & CEO, the
Executive Director, Industry Relations
will represent dealer interests in discussions with automobile manufacturers and industry stakeholders. You will lead industry relations initiatives, develop strategies to address evolving industry challenges, and strengthen relationships with dealers, provincial associations, manufacturers, and international partners.You will also oversee key CADA programs, industry research, publications, events, and departmental budgets while collaborating with the executive team to advance the association’s strategic priorities.More specifically, you will:
Monitor Canadian and global automotive industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging risks, developing strategies to protect dealer interests.Build and maintain relationships with manufacturers, dealer principals, dealer councils, provincial associations, and international industry organizations.Lead Dealer Industry Relations Committee activities and oversee Industry Relations funding programs.Collaborate with CADA’s Government Relations team on issues affecting dealers and their businesses.Oversee the annual CADA Summit, ensuring successful planning and delivery.Lead the annual Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) Survey, including analysis, reporting, and presentations to manufacturers and dealer councils.Oversee industry publications and resources, including the Quarterly Directors Newsletter, Dealer Council Guide, and CADA Year in Review.Establish departmental success measures, monitor strategic initiatives, and evaluate results.Manage the $1.5 million Industry Relations Fund and departmental operating budget.Lead a small team and oversee external consultants, contractors, suppliers, and vendors.What Makes Someone Successful in This Role
You are a strategic and collaborative leader who understands the automotive industry and can build productive relationships with senior stakeholders. You combine industry knowledge with strong analytical, communication, and decision-making skills.You are someone who:Anticipates industry trends and develops proactive strategies.Communicates complex issues clearly and persuasively.Builds trust and partnerships across diverse stakeholder groups.Leads teams and cross-functional initiatives effectively.Manages competing priorities, budgets, and deadlines with strong attention to detail.Demonstrates sound judgment, professionalism, and integrity.Working With Us
This is a
full-time hybrid position
based in our Thornhill office, near Highways 404 and 407.Our current work arrangement includes
three days in-office (Monday–Wednesday), with remote work options on Thursday and Friday.The role includes moderate travel within the GTA and approximately
20% overnight travel within Canada and internationally. Some extended hours may be required during busy periods, industry events, and critical deadlines.You’ll join a professional, collaborative team where your expertise and leadership will help advance the interests of Canada's automotive retail industry.Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Automotive Management, Economics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.Minimum 15 years of relevant automotive industry experience, with progressively responsible roles.Experience within
both automobile manufacturers (OEMs) and dealerships
is strongly preferred.Excellent understanding of franchised dealership operations and manufacturer‑dealer relationships.Fluency in English and French, both written and spoken, would be highly desirable.Demonstrated strategic planning, analytical, leadership, and relationship management skills.Strong communication, presentation, and problem‑solving abilities.Experience managing budgets, projects, teams, and external partners.Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.International automotive experience, not‑for‑profit or association experience, an MBA or relevant master’s degree, and a Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation are assets.Compensation & Benefits
You’ll earn a competitive salary commensurate with your experience and will be eligible to participate in a highly competitive group health and savings plan.We strive to build a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, people identifying as LGBTQ2SI, veterans, and people with disabilities.If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact us using the
“Help” button
within the application.We look forward to hearing from you.
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