Executive Director [Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division (CMHA NS)]

About

The Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division (CMHA NS) is dedicated to advancing mental wellness and supporting individuals affected by mental health and addiction challenges throughout the province.

As a key player in a national network, CMHA NS focuses on advocacy, high-quality program delivery, and influencing public policy to improve mental health services.

As a leading advocate for mental health, CMHA NS collaborates with branches in Halifax-Dartmouth, Colchester East-Hants, and Southwest Nova to provide evidence-based education and connect individuals with vital resources.

Guided by values of inclusivity, steadfast commitment, progressiveness, proactivity, compassion, and collaboration, CMHA NS strives to create a supportive and effective mental health environment for all Nova Scotians.

CMHA NS is poised to enter a new chapter of growth and innovation and is looking for a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to guide the organization into this exciting future.

Position Overview

The Executive Director will report to the Board Chairperson and maintain accountability to the Board of Directors. This role requires a strategic leader with a strong ability to drive organizational development and sustainability.

The Executive Director will be responsible for managing CMHA NS, ensuring a psychologically safe and positive culture, engaging with government and stakeholders to influence public policy, and overseeing the organization's financial health.

This includes stewarding private donations, seeking new funding opportunities, and developing strong relationships with community health partners.

The role also involves leading the organization through periods of change, making strategic decisions, and implementing new models to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.

As the ideal candidate, you will bring a blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and the ability to navigate complex funding landscapes while fostering a culture of compassion and inclusivity.

Experience, coupled with a deep understanding of nonprofit management, along with knowledge in the mental health field will be especially advantageous.

As the ideal candidate, you excel in relationship building and bring an innovative mindset. You offer creative solutions while maintaining high standards of client service.

Your strong decision-making skills are evident in your experience guiding decisions related to programs, services, and process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Programs & Services
• Leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs and services, ensuring they align with CMHA NS's strategy and vision.
• Provides guidance on emerging issues, manages operational changes, and evaluates program effectiveness.
• Supports policy development and capacity building.
• Financial & Fund Management
• Oversees budgets exceeding $1 million, ensuring effective allocation and financial compliance.
• Develops and implements funding strategies, manages grant applications, and resolves financial challenges.
• Association Management
• Manages day-to-day operations, including staff, office services, and facilities.
• Supports provincial and national CMHA initiatives, maintains brand integrity, and ensures a strong social media presence.
• Acts as a spokesperson and builds sustainability within the organization.
• Leadership
• Sets performance targets, promotes a healthy workplace, and leads staff development.
• Communicates organizational goals and values, supports succession planning, and fosters internal collaboration.
• Collaboration & Relationship Building
• Influences mental health policy and planning, builds strategic partnerships, and acts as a liaison between CMHA NS, its branches, and CMHA National.
• Engages with community and government to support mental health awareness and community engagement.
• Governance
• Provides operational support to the Board, assists with board recruitment and policy development, and ensures alignment with the strategic plan.
• Keeps the board informed and ensures effective communication and execution of board decisions.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in social services, psychology, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in a senior leadership role within the nonprofit sector.
• Proven track record of strategic leadership, organizational change management, and operational excellence.
• Experience in mental health or related fields is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of governance relations and the ability to collaborate effectively with a Board of Directors.
• Excellent communication, fundraising, and organizational skills.
• Experience in navigating funding complexities and implementing financial sustainability strategies.
• Ability to balance strategic vision with day-to-day operations and make difficult decisions when necessary.

Why Join CMHA NS

CMHA NS offers a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic organization committed to improving mental health services across Nova Scotia.

As the Executive Director, you will have the opportunity to work in a supportive and compassionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community.

Interested candidates can reach out to Shardeigh McGillivray via [email protected] and Nada Hallaweh via [email protected] in confidence.

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