Environmental, social & economic sustainability

Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Sustainable Kingston
Location: Kingston, Ontario

• Salary: $70,000 – $75,000 / year + health benefits
• Position Type: Permanent, Full-Time

ABOUT SUSTAINABLE KINGSTON

Sustainable Kingston's vision is to be an organization that facilitates the effective transition towards environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability. To raise awareness and establish strategic partnerships to inspire community engagement and foster more livable and resilient communities.

SUMMARY

The Executive Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational management, and overall performance of Sustainable Kingston. This role ensures alignment with the organization's mission, oversees staff and program delivery, builds community partnerships, and manages resources sustainably, responsibly, and transparently.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Governance & Strategic Leadership

• Collaborate with the Chair of the Board of Directors to set agendas for monthly Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Provide regular progress reports and support effective Board governance.
• Develop and implement strategic plans with Board input; measure and report organizational performance.
• Guide new initiative development, including research, funding, alignment with City of Kingston priorities, and risk management.

2. Program Oversight & Operations

• Lead program delivery in line with City of Kingston Service Level Agreements (SLA).
• Maintain and grow the community partner network.
• Support the Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator in the execution of programs, events, and outreach.
• Oversee deliverables, timelines, and budget adherence for all initiatives.
• Lead development and reporting of community sustainability metrics.
• Lead the Local Climate Partnership.
• Support strategic initiatives, including but not limited to:
• Climate Leadership Plan – Participate in working group.
• Sustainably.eco – Strategy, member engagement, communications.
• Policy Engagement – Provide strategic oversight and support.

3. Grant Writing & Fund Development

• Proactively identify grant opportunities and funding streams to support operational needs and program growth.
• Write, coordinate, and submit grant applications aligned with Sustainable Kingston’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Maintain relationships with current and prospective funders, including governments, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
• Track and fulfill grant deliverables, deadlines, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance.
• Collaborate with the Board to develop fundraising strategies and diversify revenue sources beyond core funding from the City of Kingston.

4. Financial Management

• Oversee annual budgeting and regular financial reporting, including year-end audit preparation and liaison activities with external auditors.
• Administer payroll and manage day-to-day financial operations:
• Accounts payable and receivable
• Bank deposits and reconciliations
• Vendor payments and invoice processing
• Revenue tracking and cash receipt recording
• Respond to financial inquiries and maintain financial integrity across the organization.

5. Team Leadership & HR Management

• Lead recruitment, onboarding, development, and performance management of staff and volunteers.
• Conduct regular 1:1s, team check-ins, and biweekly staff meetings.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and support professional development.
• Foster cross-functional communication and collaboration.

6. Community Relations & Communications

• Serve as the public face of Sustainable Kingston at local events, media engagements, and strategic forums.
• Support and supervise the development of the organization’s Communications Strategy.
• Maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders including:
• Community partners and political leaders
• Grantors, sponsors, and funders
• Corporate and institutional supporters
• Respond to all media inquiries and ensure consistent external messaging.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

• Post-Secondary degree/diploma in social sciences, business administration and/or equivalent education and professional experience.
• 2+ years of experience in a similar role, as a senior leader, and/or with equivalent fundraising, management or supervisory functions, and leadership capabilities.
• Experience with engagement and collaboration with community-based organizations.
• Experience with grant writing, administration and reporting.
• Experience with Microsoft 365.
• Experience with QuickBooks, and/or financial management.

Knowledge and Skills

• Passion for sustainability and for improving the resiliency and livability of Kingston.
• Skill at activating community-based leadership and partnerships.
• Experience with human resources, supporting management and staff, and a history of contributing to a healthy organizational culture. This includes knowledge of best practices relating to accessibility, diversity and inclusion.
• Track record of building and growing an organization or initiative that engages a broad diversity of supporters across geographic, political and social spheres.
• A proven ability to think strategically, develop and implement plans and manage complex and changing projects.
• Experience reporting to or sitting on a Board of Directors, Steering Committee, or similar advisory group.

At Sustainable Kingston, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment. We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community.

To Apply

Please submit your application in confidence to: jsalter-keane@cityofkingston.ca

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Applications close on 20 May 2025.