EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU)
Location: St. Catharines, Ontario
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: $130,000 – $150,000 annually
ABOUT BROCK UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION
Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) represents undergraduate students at Brock University and works to enhance student experience through advocacy, programs, services, businesses and opportunities. BUSU is committed to creating an inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment where students can connect, thrive and have their voices represented. With a diverse range of operations, services and student-focused initiatives, BUSU is a complex organization with a significant role within the Brock University community. BUSU is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as its next Executive Director.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Executive Director is BUSU’s senior administrative and operational leader and is accountable to the Board of Directors for the effective leadership and performance of the organization. Working closely with the Board of Directors and elected student Executives, the Executive Director will translate strategic priorities into organizational action while ensuring BUSU remains financially sustainable, operationally effective and focused on delivering value to students.
The Executive Director will lead and develop the management team, provide organizational continuity through annual student leadership transitions, oversee organizational risk and compliance, and ensure BUSU’s programs, services and operations are effectively managed. Externally, the Executive Director will serve as a senior representative of BUSU and build strong relationships with Brock University, community organizations, government, sector partners and other key stakeholders.
KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITYStrategic & Organizational Leadership
· Lead the implementation of BUSU’s strategic plan and translate Board priorities into measurable organizational objectives.
· Establish annual organizational priorities and performance measures.
· Provide strategic advice to the Board and student Executives.
· Identify emerging opportunities, challenges and risks affecting BUSU and its members.
· Lead organizational change, modernization and continuous improvement initiatives.
· Ensure organizational resources are aligned with strategic priorities.
People & Organizational Culture
· Lead, coach and develop BUSU’s senior management team.
· Establish clear performance expectations and accountability for senior leaders.
· Foster a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative organizational culture.
· Support effective recruitment, retention, leadership development and succession planning.
· Work with Human Resources to ensure effective and compliant people practices across the organization.
Financial Stewardship
· Provide overall financial leadership and stewardship of the organization.
· Oversee annual budgeting, forecasting and financial performance.
· Ensure appropriate financial controls, accountability and reporting are maintained.
· Support the long-term financial sustainability of BUSU.
· Oversee the organization’s investments, student fee framework and annual external audit process.
· Provide the Board with timely financial information, forecasts, risks and recommendations.
Operations & Risk Management
· Oversee BUSU’s programs, services, businesses and day-to-day operations.
· Ensure operational plans and performance measures support BUSU’s strategic objectives.
· Oversee organizational risk management and business continuity.
· Ensure appropriate health, safety and risk management practices are in place for BUSU’s facilities, events and activities.
· Oversee significant contracts, vendor relationships and organizational resources.
· Promote operational efficiency, innovation and continuous improvement.
Governance & Board Relations
· Serve as an ex-officio, non-voting member of the Board and committees as required
· Serve as the principal administrative advisor to the Board of Directors.
· Provide objective professional advice, organizational context and recommendations to support the Board in effective decision-making.
· Ensure the Board receives timely and relevant information regarding organizational performance, finances, strategic initiatives and significant risks.
· Maintain a clear distinction between Board governance and management responsibilities.
· Support the annual onboarding and transition of elected student Executives and Board members.
External & Institutional Relations
· Serve as a senior representative and ambassador for BUSU.
· Develop and maintain strong relationships with Brock University leadership and departments.
· Build relationships with, community organizations, strategic partners, and government.
· Represent BUSU at relevant community, post-secondary and sector events.
· Identify opportunities for partnerships and collaboration that advance BUSU’s strategic objectives.
· Support BUSU’s reputation as a professional, effective and student-focused organization.
Legal, Compliance & Organizational Risk
· Oversee BUSU’s legal and regulatory compliance.
· Ensure appropriate legal advice is obtained when required.
· Oversee the review and execution of contracts, agreements and other legally binding documents.
· Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, regulations, policies and governing agreements.
· Maintain appropriate insurance coverage for BUSU, and its operations.
· Identify and communicate significant legal, financial, operational and reputational risks to the Board.
WHAT YOU BRINGRequired Qualifications
· Post-secondary degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, Finance or a related field.
· 7-10+ years of progressive leadership experience.
· 6+ years of experience in senior management or executive leadership roles.
· Extensive experience working with a Board of Directors or formal governance body.
· Strong understanding of governance and the distinction between governance and operations.
· Experience leading and developing managers and senior leaders.
· Experience developing and implementing strategic plans.
· Experience managing organizational budgets and financial forecasting.
· Experience with financial reporting, controls and organizational risk management.
· Experience developing and implementing organizational policies and procedures.
· Experience building and maintaining relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders.
· Strong strategic thinking, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
· Strong communication, negotiation and relationship-management skills.
· Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, discretion and accountability.
Assets
· Experience working in a post-secondary institution, or not-for-profit organization.
· Experience working within the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act.
· Experience working in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.
· Master’s degree in a related field.
WHAT WE OFFER
· Competitive salary: $130,000 – $150,000
· Flexible work environment
· Extended health and dental benefits with employer-paid premiums
· Food allowance
· Wellness allowance
· Cell phone allowance
· Employer RRSP matching
· Parking Pass
· Annual professional development allowance
· Opportunities for leadership development and career growth
· Meaningful opportunity to make a direct impact on the Brock student experience
· Collaborative and engaging work environment
Pay: $130,000.00-$150,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- On-site parking
- RRSP match
Application question(s):
- Which of the following best describes your experience working with a Board of Directors or formal governance body?
- How many years of experience do you have working in a senior management or executive leadership role?
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Work Location: In person
