Executive Director

Executive Director The People People, on behalf of our client, the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA), are seeking an exception leader with a passion for agriculture to serve as Executive Director . Join us in our innovative new work environment, designed for collaboration and success! If you’ve built your career on this style and excel in driving meaningful impact, we want to hear from you! The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) is a leading organization dedicated to the advancement and sustainability of agricultural practices in Ontario. The Executive Director (ED) plays a pivotal role in advancing OSCIA's mission by ensuring that the Association remains strong, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs of its members, staff, and the broader agricultural community. The role of the Executive Director requires a dedicated individual with a passion for agriculture and a commitment to excellence. By working in concert with the Board, the Executive Committee, the Leadership Council, staff, industry partners and the Association's members, the Executive Director will drive OSCIA forward, ensuring it remains a leader in promoting sustainable and innovative agricultural practices. Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Culture : Foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture that optimizes employee well-being, performance, and teamwork while attracting and retaining top talent.
• Talent Development : Lead, coach, and develop OSCIA's high-performing team; conduct annual performance reviews for direct reports.
• Board Collaboration : Provide the Board with the necessary information for effective governance and participate in an annual performance review with the Board Chair.
• Policy Oversight : Ensure appropriate insurance policies, employment policies, and legal compliance are established, communicated, and implemented.
• Legal Liaison : Serve as the primary point of contact with legal counsel to manage legal matters and compliance.
• Stakeholder Relationships : Articulate OSCIA’s mission and vision, cultivating positive relationships with stakeholders, including local/regional groups, funding agencies, and partners.
• Representation : Act as OSCIA’s spokesperson, positioning the organization as a leader in program delivery, knowledge transfer, and applied research.
• Strategic Alignment : Oversee strategic initiatives and ensure alignment with the Association’s goals and objectives.
• Leadership Council Support : Support the Leadership Council by securing funding, optimizing resources, and monitoring strategic progress.
• Project Implementation : Lead cross-departmental efforts to develop and implement key strategic projects.
• Industry Expertise : Stay informed of emerging agricultural technologies, practices, and regulations to guide OSCIA’s adaptation to industry changes.
• Funding & Resource Management : Collaborate with funding agencies to secure financial resources and explore new revenue streams

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental sciences, business or public administration, or a related field. An advanced degree in business management, nonprofit management or related field would be an asset.
• Completion of specialized courses or certifications in agricultural management, nonprofit leadership, or organizational strategy is an asset.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of professional experience with at least 5+ years in a senior management role.
• Demonstrated success in a senior management role with responsibilities that include strategic planning, team leadership, and organizational performance.
• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and managing relationships with diverse partners, including government agencies, industry leaders, and community groups.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including presenting to large and small audiences of diverse stakeholders.
• Proficient in modern office technologies and software, including the Microsoft Office Suite and cloud-based tools.

For full Job Description please refer to the following link: // Location: 1-367 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, Ontario OSCIA offers competitive compensation and is an equal opportunity employer. OSCIA offers a blended work week that allows for a minimum number of days in our Guelph office, but also the equipment and support to work remotely for a set number of days each week. Thank you for your interest in this position! ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT (AODA IN ONTARIO) OSCIA is committed to providing a barrier-free work environment in concert with the provincial guidelines for accessibility (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Ontario Only). As such, OSCIA will make accommodations available to applicants with disabilities upon request during the recruitment process. HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENT OSCIA strives to ensure that its employment practices are free from direct and indirect discrimination and is committed to upholding the human rights of those participating in the hiring process. In pursuit of this commitment, OSCIA will not condone or tolerate any acts of discrimination or harassment under any of the grounds protected under human rights legislation. This commitment extends to the hiring process and throughout the course of employment.