Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for executing MHF’s strategic direction through the effective management of the organization’s day-to‑day operations for housing, program, and lodge services. This role oversees the development and implementation of actionable plans across their department to ensure MHF achieves its goals with operational excellence and consistent execution. This position provides oversight for program, housing, and lodge service initiatives.

Key responsibilities

Specific duties and responsibilities of this position shall include but not be limited to the following:

Strategic Leadership

• Strategic Planning: Lead the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of organizational, operational, and strategic plans aligned with the organization's purpose and long‑term objectives. Lead and support the implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance operational effectiveness, organizational sustainability, and service delivery outcomes. Collaborate with senior leadership to identify emerging opportunities, operational priorities, and organizational risks.
• Board & Executive Relations: Work closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), senior leadership and the Board of Directors to support strategic decision‑making and organizational governance. Prepare and present reports, operational updates, strategic recommendations, and performance data to the CEO and Board as required. Will be acting CEO during absences.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure organizational compliance with all applicable legal, regulatory, financial, and provincial requirements, as well as organizational policies and standards. Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate operational and organizational risks related to housing and lodge operations as well as service delivery. Implement and monitor policies, procedures, and internal controls approved by the CEO and applicable regulatory or legislative authorities.
• Budget Oversight: Develop, manage, and monitor operational department budgets to ensure financial sustainability, accountability, and alignment with current and projected organizational growth. Review departmental revenues and expenditures on a monthly basis and implement corrective actions as required to maintain fiscal performance. Identify and implement cost‑effective operational strategies that enhance service delivery while maximizing organizational resources. Participate in the development of the budget for employee wages with CEO and Director of Finance.
• Fundraising, Grants & Resource Development: Provide oversight and strategic direction to the Program Manager to support organizational fundraising and resource development initiatives including grants, loans, donations, charitable contributions, sponsorships, and private‑sector investments to support housing development and operational initiatives. Support the development of funding proposals, partnership opportunities, and stakeholder relationships that advance organizational sustainability and growth.
• Financial Reporting & Compliance: Ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in financial reporting in accordance with organizational policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. Collaborate with senior leadership teams to support financial planning, forecasting, reporting, and audit processes. Monitor financial risks and ensure appropriate internal controls and reporting practices are maintained.

Organizational Oversight:

• Operational Management: Identify operational gaps and opportunities across core business processes, systems, programs, services, and facilities. Lead the planning, development, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of operational programs and service delivery models. Ensure operational effectiveness, scalability, and alignment with organizational objectives and strategic priorities. Collaborate with the Program Manager to ensure program delivery needs are met for all departments.
• Performance Monitoring & Compliance: Develop and implement performance metrics and KPIs to evaluate operational and housing service delivery effectiveness. Analyze operational performance data to improve productivity, optimize resources, and reduce costs while maintaining service quality. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, industry standards, applicable legislation, and provincial regulatory requirements. Monitor operational risks and implement corrective actions and quality assurance measures as required.
• Process Improvement & Strategic Operations: Lead the development and implementation of operational strategies that support organizational growth and long‑term sustainability. Develop, implement, and maintain operational policies, procedures, and best practices to support consistent and effective operations.
• Staff Leadership: Provide leadership, mentorship, and performance management to direct reports and operational teams. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous learning, and high performance. Support workforce planning, staff development, succession planning, and employee engagement initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Community Engagement: Develop and maintain strong relationships with residents, community partners, government agencies, service providers, and other key stakeholders to support organizational objectives and community well‑being. Represent the organization at community meetings, networking events, public forums, and stakeholder consultations. Foster partnerships that enhance service delivery, housing initiatives, and organizational visibility within the community.
• Public Relations & Communications: Support and promote a positive public image of the organization through effective communication, stakeholder engagement, and public relations initiatives. Collaborate with the CEO and leadership team on public communications, media responses, presentations, and community outreach strategies. Review organizational communications, reports, promotional materials, and public‑facing content to ensure consistency and professionalism. Provides strategic oversight for organizational branding, marketing initiatives, public relations, community outreach, digital communications, and stakeholder engagement activities. Ensures consistent messaging and promotes awareness of organizational programs, services, housing opportunities, and community impact.
• Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations: Advocate for organizational priorities and housing initiatives with community partners, funding agencies, and government stakeholders. Build and maintain productive relationships with external stakeholders to support organizational growth, funding opportunities, and strategic initiatives. Promote Meridian Housing Foundations purpose and services through ongoing engagement and relationship‑building activities.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Business Administration, Public Administration, Social Work, or related field. Relevant professional certifications are often preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 7 years in a leadership role with experience leading/coaching employees. Experience in a non‑profit setting and housing background (supportive lodge living and housing) is preferred.
• Change Management: Experience with change leadership and change management.
• Collaboration & team building: Skilled at fostering inclusive team environments, encouraging open communication, and building strong working relationships in a fast‑paced environment.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to advocate effectively for the organization and its purpose.
• Housing Management Knowledge: Strong understanding of housing operations, regulations, tenant services, and property management. Experience with Accommodation Standards for Supportive Living Accommodation, Social Housing Accommodation regulations and the Continuing Care Act is preferred.
• Leadership: Excellent leadership skills with a proven track record of managing, mentoring, and motivating staff.
• Management: Strong administration/management skills pertaining to service delivery, financial and people management matters.
• Organization & Time Management: Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Problem‑Solving: Exceptional critical thinking and problem‑solving skills with the ability to navigate complex issues.
• Stakeholder Management: Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including residents, government agencies, developers, and community organizations.
• Technical skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Yardi and GoEasyCare is an asset.

Working conditions

• This position is office‑based in the Administration Office located in Stony Plain, AB.
• This position will require occasional travel for meetings and site visits at MHF properties.
• Flexible work hours may be necessary to accommodate board meetings and events outside regular office hours.
• Dress Code: Business casual.

Salary and benefits

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits package including health insurance, pension, and paid time off.