Chief Operating Officer

About Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary

Nestled in the heart of the Calgary Metropolitan area, the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC) stands as a beacon of hope and support for Aboriginal peoples. As a dedicated non-profit organization, AFCC is driven by a passionate mandate to weave together social, cultural, educational, and employment services, fostering a strong and vibrant Indigenous community.

AFCC plays a vital role in the everyday lives of its members, offering a diverse array of services that speak to the needs of our community. From nurturing care for our children and compassionate support for the elderly to aiding those facing hardships and homelessness, AFCC is there at every turn. The Centre acts as a bridge to cultural and spiritual enrichment, providing crucial access to traditional practices and wellness resources. With a commitment to empowerment, AFCC facilitates referrals for essential needs such as housing, food, and clothing, while also championing the pursuit of education and skill development through various training programs. This commitment helps to cultivate a resourceful and resilient Aboriginal community, where individuals are encouraged to thrive.

The non-profit family at AFCC embodies the values we hold dear, reflecting who we are, where we find solace, and how we extend a helping hand to one another in times of need. Recognized as a community leader, AFCC advocates vigorously for Indigenous social and cultural services, serving not only as a vital resource for its members but also as a collaborative partner for Indigenous service agencies at the local, provincial, and national levels. Together, we forge a path toward a brighter future, fostering connections, resilience, and unity within our community.

Position Summary:

The Chief Operating Officer partners closely with the CEO to oversee funding, administration, program delivery, reporting, and strategic initiatives. This role involves managing the Centre's daily operations in collaboration with the CEO, Director of Programs and Services, Director of Development, staff, and volunteers. The Chief Operating Officer is also responsible for building relationships with community partners to strengthen the Centre's presence in the city and among local residents. They are accountable for driving the organization’s strategic priorities to ensure its long-term sustainability and success. This position is offered as a one-year contract with strong intention to renew based on performance and funding. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the CEO to develop and implement short and long-term strategic and operational plans that support the organization’s values, mission, and general objectives.
• Work in partnership with the Senior Leadership team to realize effective and efficient organizational operations
• Seek out opportunities to enhance program offerings and effectively support community members
• Ensure ongoing collaboration between various AFCC programs and locations to provide coordinated services
• Plan, develop, and coordinate organizational capacity and capability to best serve AFCC’s mission
• Identify opportunities to improve cross-functional operations in terms of technology, workflow, process, and structure
• Maintain strong lines of communication, ensuring accurate and timely information is presented to the CEO
• Maintain ongoing knowledge of best and emerging practices the nonprofit sector
• Build and maintain relationships with AFCC’s volunteers and staff regarding operational and strategic goals and activities
• Uphold and enforce organization policies and standards, ensuring proper compliance as determined
• Provide ongoing support to the CEO as required
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, laws and accreditation standards

Qualifications:

• Deep understanding of urban Indigenous realities, intergenerational trauma, cultural safety, and strengths-based community engagement.
• Experience overseeing capital, housing, infrastructure, or multi-site expansion projects is strongly preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit operations, including at least 5-10 years in a leadership role with experience working in the human services sector
• Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and resource allocation
• Strong background in team management and collaborative leadership
• Experience in reporting, and compliance with government or foundation requirements
• Construction project management experience considered a strong asset
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels, from community members to team members, especially vulnerable populations
• Proficiency with data analysis and performance tracking to measure program success and improve operations
• Passion for the mission and values of AFCC
• Implementation of board-approved strategic plan
• Must have experience in the delivery and management of community-based programs