Executive Director

Connor, Clark & Lunn Financial Group Ltd.•Toronto, ON

51d•CA$100,000 - CA$150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Interested in joining one of Canada’s top performing asset managers? We are looking for an Executive Director to join the Connor, Clark & Lunn Foundation for a newly created leadership role supporting the Foundation and its Board of Directors. The Connor, Clark & Lunn Foundation was established over 25 years ago to support philanthropy across CC&L Financial Group and its Canadian affiliates. Since 1999, the Foundation has distributed more than $15 million to over 700 charitable organizations across Canada. The Foundation is now entering an exciting new chapter with a renewed governance framework, updated granting policies and procedures, and a dedicated Executive Director role to lead the Foundation’s operations and strategic evolution. This is an opportunity for a collaborative, purpose-driven leader to shape the future of the Foundation by strengthening governance, enhancing granting processes, engaging employees and partners across the firm, and deepening the Foundation’s impact in communities across Canada. The Executive Director will report directly to the Board of Directors and serve as the Foundation’s sole dedicated employee, while drawing upon internal resources and support teams across CC&L Financial Group and its affiliates. The position may be based in Toronto or Vancouver and operates within a flexible hybrid work model.

Requirements

Leadership experience within the charitable or nonprofit sector in Canada, ideally within a granting foundation or philanthropic organization
Strong understanding of the Canadian charitable and social profit landscape, including grantmaking practices and charitable governance requirements
Experience working closely with volunteer Boards of Directors in a collaborative and strategic capacity
Demonstrated ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on operational execution
Exceptional relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence without direct authority
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and emotional intelligence
Strong financial management, budgeting, reporting, and organizational skills
Experience leading projects, implementing process improvements, and managing competing priorities and timelines
Comfort engaging with a broad range of stakeholders, including applicants, volunteers, senior leaders, and community organizations across Canada
Knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements for Canadian charitable organizations, including CRA compliance obligations
Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a commitment to transparency, accountability, and service excellence
Proficiency with technology, reporting systems, and tools used to support governance, communications, and operational effectiveness

Nice To Haves

Experience developing communications, engagement, or volunteer initiatives is considered an asset

Responsibilities

Lead the implementation of the Foundation’s new governance framework and strategic recommendations approved by the Board
Oversee all operational activities of the Foundation, including coordination of financial, administrative, and internal support resources
Develop and maintain operational processes, policies, and reporting frameworks to support effective governance and granting activities
Support the development and implementation of annual operating budgets and ongoing financial reporting to the Board
Ensure all statutory, legal, and regulatory obligations of the Foundation are met, including CRA compliance, receipting, record keeping, and reporting requirements
Maintain and regularly review risk management frameworks, policies, and governance documentation with the Board
Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and support the Board in fulfilling its governance responsibilities
Coordinate Board and committee meetings, including preparation of materials, agenda development, minutes, and follow-up actions
Support the Applications Committee in reviewing grant applications and making recommendations to the Board using consistent and transparent criteria
Develop reporting and tracking processes to support grant decision-making, funding oversight, and trend analysis
Assist the Board in developing and reviewing governance policies, committee structures, recruitment practices, and an investment policy for the Foundation
Lead the administration and due diligence process for all grant applications
Develop and refine granting processes, funding agreements, and grantee reporting practices
Build and maintain systems and databases to track grant applications, funding decisions, and historical disbursements
Foster strong relationships with applicants, grantees, employees, partners, and external stakeholders
Support employees and partners in connecting clients and communities to the Foundation’s work and impact
Lead the Foundation’s internal and external communications strategy
Promote awareness and engagement with the Foundation across CC&L Financial Group and Canadian affiliates
Develop and implement strategies for volunteerism, employee engagement, and the Foundation’s annual Week of Giving initiative
Act as the primary public representative and spokesperson for the Foundation