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Position Title: Executive Director
Reports to: Board of Directors
Organization: Federation of Metro Tenants Associations

Location: Toronto, ON, Hybrid
Type: 6 Months with the possibility of becoming Full-time, Permanent

Organization Overview

The Federation of Metro Tenants' Associations (FMTA) is a non-profit organization that advocates for better tenants' rights. Founded in 1974, it is the oldest and largest Tenant Federation in Canada. The FMTA is comprised of affiliated Tenant Associations and individual members. We have over 3,000 members and continue to grow. The FMTA team works collaboratively to empower tenants and advocate for policies that will improve their rights.

Position Summary

The Executive Director will work to guide FMTA through a transformation period and will implement our new strategic plan. This is a unique opportunity to lead a non-profit organization that is on the frontline of advocating for tenants' rights and meaningful policies during a worsening housing crisis.

Core Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Lead FMTA’s strategic goals, focusing on the City of Toronto Purchase of Service Agreement and enhancing FMTA's influence in tenant advocacy. Provide leadership and direction to FMTA staff, lead the FMTA through the implementation of our new strategic plan, and ensure that we are meeting the goals of our members and funders.
• Program Management: Oversee FMTA’s daily operations, including program delivery (e.g., Hotline and Outreach), ensuring effective service delivery and alignment with FMTA's objectives, staff management, and organizational development.
• Board Collaboration: Work closely with the Board of Directors on governance, strategic planning, advocacy decisions and Board member recruitment to strengthen leadership and decision-making.
• Financial Stewardship: In partnership with the Treasurer, manage FMTA’s budget, ensuring financial health through fundraising, grant writing, and donor engagement. Responsible for overseeing funding agreements with the City of Toronto and other funders.
• Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with the City of Toronto and other levels of government, media, funders, tenant associations and members. Act as the primary spokesperson for the FMTA, representing the organization in media, public forums, and government advocacy.
• Human Resources & Labor Relations: Lead the unionized team, managing collective agreements, recruitment, training, and fostering diversity, equity, and Inclusion in the workplace.

Day-to-Day Tasks

• Oversee the operations of FMTA’s Hotline and Outreach & Organizing teams, ensuring smooth and effective service delivery.
• Manage unionized and non-unionized staff to ensure a cohesive workplace culture.
• Maintain relationships with community stakeholders, advocating for tenant rights in meetings with policymakers.
• Oversee financial reports, ensuring transparency and regular updates to the Board.
• Manage the publication of tenant resources like the Tenant Survival Manual, keeping information accessible and updated.
• Ensure the FMTA office and technological systems, VOIP call centre, and backups are working and maintained.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, non-profit management, business administration, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of leadership experience in non-profit or community advocacy, including managing unionized staff.
• Proven ability to lead teams, develop long-term strategies, and foster an inclusive and collaborative work environment.
• Strong financial management experience, including budget oversight and fundraising.
• Expertise in tenant rights and organizing, housing policies, and community engagement.
• Experience in advocating for policy changes at local, provincial, or federal levels.
• Strong stakeholder relationship and outreach skills including writing media releases, calls to action, newsletters, public speaking, etc. Strong relationship building skills, with experience working with government, media, and community stakeholders.
• Experience in overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and implementing organizational policies and procedures.
• Experience in office software and technologies (Nationbuilder, MS Office, databases, help desk).
• Government relations experience and knowledge of Toronto municipal government.
• Demonstrated commitment to anti-oppression, anti-racism, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

Why Join FMTA?

FMTA offers a unique opportunity to lead a highly respected organization at a time when tenant rights are at the forefront of public discourse. As Executive Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tenant advocacy and the human right to housing in Toronto, leading innovative programs, and driving strategic initiatives that impact thousands of tenants.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume outlining their qualifications and vision for FMTA’s future to board@torontotenants.org . Please include “Executive Director Application” in the subject line. Please indicate you saw this posting at GoodWork.ca.

Application Deadline: October 18, 2024

For more information about FMTA, please visit torontotenants.org