Established in 1959 by St. Francis Xavier University (StFX), the Coady Institute is committed to accompanying generations of global leaders skilled in the application of citizen-led, asset-based, and community-driven leadership for economic and social change. The Institute continues to build upon the principles of the Antigonish Movement and the work of the StFX Extension Department by providing educational opportunities, networking, and capacity building support for emerging and established community leaders and their organizations both locally and globally. The Institute is a place where community leaders come together in person and online to share their experiences and innovations. In collaboration with partners across Canada and around the globe, the Institute is committed to reducing poverty and transforming societies by strengthening local economies, building resilient communities, and by promoting social accountability and good governance. Through relevant adult education programs, effective partnerships, and applicable research, the Institute is equipping community leaders and their organizations with the knowledge and practical tools needed to bring about the change they want for themselves. The Institute is home to the International Centre for Women’s Leadership which includes a focus on Indigenous women leaders through the work of the Circle of Abundance and the Centre for Employment Innovation concentrates on helping members of under-represented populations gain access to meaningful employment in Nova Scotia, and advance understandings of the future of work locally and globally.
StFX is seeking an innovative, collaborative leader to assume the position of Executive Director for a renewable four- to six-year term. Reporting to the Academic Vice-President and Provost, the Executive Director works closely with Institute leadership and staff to develop and execute the Institute’s strategic and operational plans. Providing culturally responsive leadership for a team of 36 skilled academic and non-academic professionals, the successful candidate will grow and develop the local and international offerings of the Institute. This includes relevant adult education and community development programs, building effective partnerships with, among others, community groups, governments, and funding agencies, and championing applied research. They will build and diversify the support and funding base for the Institute through new and strategic partnerships with government, philanthropic organizations, and other current and potential donors.
The ideal candidate for Executive Director will have extensive experience in the community development sector in Canada and internationally along with an advanced degree (Master’s, PhD or equivalent). They will bring experience in capacity building and non-profit leadership along with a commitment to furthering adult education and facilitating citizen-led, asset-based and community-driven leadership development in an educational context. The ability to foster and maintain relationships with external partners including other development organizations and government agencies will be key. Additionally, they will need proven capacity to conceptualize and execute projects and strong track record of applying for and securing project/program funding. The successful candidate will also have experience overseeing a large, hybrid team of professionals with a multi-million dollar budget.
The Coady Institute was named in honour of Rev. Dr. Moses Coady, a prominent founder of the Antigonish Movement and now includes a network of more than 10,000 graduates in 146 countries globally. To learn more about the Institute, visit coady.stfx.ca.
The work of the Institute is guided by the University’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan. Outlining a bold vision for the future of StFX, the Plan is focused on our shared vision: To build our University the way it is meant to be. To learn more about the Plan, visit stfx.ca/strategic-initiatives.
Salary Rate: $126,867.00 to $155,005.50 CAD
How to apply
Application Instructions
For more information on this position or to apply, please contact Daniel Draper, Director, People and Culture at ddraper@stfx.ca or Alison Sampson, People and Culture Advisor at asampson@stfx.ca.
Consideration of applications by the Selection Committee will commence May 1, 2023, and will continue until a successful candidate has been selected.
St. Francis Xavier University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People.
Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Indigenous persons (especially Mi’kmaq), racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians), persons with disabilities, those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA+, and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community.
Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at hr@stfx.ca or 902-867-5038.