Operations Manager 

 

Position Name: Operations Manager

Reports To: Executive Director

Location: Ontario, Canada / Remote 

Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (must be able to work between the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time) 

Salary Range: CAD 30.00 to CAD 35.00 per hour, with an expected starting rate at CAD 30.00 per hour

Post Date: July 17, 2023

Close Date: July 30, 2023

About Indigenous Friends Association (IFA)

Indigenous Friends Association (IFA) is an Indigenous registered charity that was founded in 2015. It was established to address the needs of Indigenous youth in urban and post-secondary settings. IFA aims to curate better non-digital and digital safer spaces by connecting Indigenous youth with their peers and rekindling their relationships with traditional knowledge and values.

One of IFA's core objectives is to incorporate traditional knowledge and ceremony into virtual spaces. The organization has developed expertise in providing Indigenous software, mobile applications, and experience planning. By leveraging technology, IFA strives to create digital solutions that facilitate the sharing and preservation of traditional Indigenous practices and culture.

IFA operates with the goal of making a positive impact on Indigenous youth, fostering a sense of identity and connection to their heritage. By providing safer spaces, digital tools, and cultural resources, IFA aims to contribute to the well-being and success of Indigenous youth in urban and post-secondary environments.

Job Overview:

The Operations Manager at IFA will play a crucial role in providing inspired leadership and ensuring the efficiency of the organizational processes. IFA specializes in creating digital solutions that incorporate traditional knowledge and ceremony into virtual spaces. The Operations Manager will have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of IFA by overseeing the day-to-day activities in the delivery of all our programs.

The responsibilities will include handling multiple departments within the organization and ensuring maximum productivity. The Operations Manager will be responsible for making important policy and strategic decisions that align with IFA's goals and objectives. Additionally, they will play a pivotal role in the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures, ensuring that they are efficient, effective, and in line with industry best practices.

The Operations Manager will work closely with the executive team, program managers, and other stakeholders to streamline operations, optimize resource allocation, and maintain a positive and collaborative work environment. Their ability to communicate effectively and build relationships will be essential in coordinating efforts across departments and fostering a cohesive and productive work culture.

Overall, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of the Indigenous Friends Association by overseeing and enhancing its operational processes.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Operations Manager duties and responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks to ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of the organization. Here is an overview of the key areas they will be responsible for:

Leadership and Team Management:

• Provide strong leadership and guidance to the organization's staff, promoting a positive and inclusive work culture.
• Oversee and coordinate the work of multiple departments, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
• Set clear goals and objectives for department managers and team members, providing regular feedback and support.
• Foster professional development and training opportunities for staff to enhance their skills and capabilities.

Operational Planning and Implementation:

• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems that align with IFA's strategic goals.
• Collaborate with the executive team to establish annual budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiencies, implementing strategies to enhance productivity.
• Coordinate with program managers to ensure the timely and effective delivery of all IFA programs.

Strategic Decision Making:

• Collaborate with the executive team to develop and execute the organization's strategic plans and objectives.
• Make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, program development, and partnerships to drive growth and impact.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis of market trends, industry best practices, and funding opportunities.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current operations and identify areas for innovation and improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships:

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, partners, and funders.
• Collaborate with external organizations and individuals to enhance program offerings and expand IFA's reach.
• Represent IFA at meetings, conferences, and events to raise awareness and foster strategic partnerships.
• Respond to stakeholder inquiries and concerns in a timely and professional manner.

Program Management and Quality Assurance:

• Oversee the delivery of all IFA programs, ensuring they meet quality standards and align with organizational goals.
• Monitor program outcomes and evaluate their impact on Indigenous youth in urban and post-secondary settings.
• Collaborate with program managers to develop and improve program content, methodologies, and evaluation methods.
• Implement quality assurance measures to ensure program excellence and participant satisfaction.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards in all operational activities.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks by implementing appropriate controls and procedures.
• Monitor and evaluate potential risks, developing and implementing contingency plans as needed.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation to comply with legal requirements and facilitate reporting.

Qualifications Required (Minimum)

Education

• A bachelor's degree in program management, business or public administration, technical management, information systems, engineering, finance/accounting, or related fields is required.
• Alternatively, an acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Experience 

• The ideal candidate will have a minimum of five (5) years of recent project management experience in the non-profit sector.
• Proficiency in analyzing training needs/requirements and developing appropriate strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct comprehensive research for special projects, promptly respond to inquiries, and effectively present written and oral briefings.
• Aptitude for working with attention to detail and managing time-sensitive issues.
• Strong understanding of financial management principles and practices.
• Previous experience in operations management or a similar leadership role is highly desirable.
• Experience working in a nonprofit organization or the Indigenous community sector is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of successfully overseeing and managing multiple departments or teams is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated capability in managing and developing staff, providing constructive feedback, and cultivating a positive work culture.

Skills

• Exceptional leadership skills, capable of inspiring and motivating teams to accomplish organizational goals.
• Proficient problem-solving and decision-making abilities to tackle operational challenges and drive process improvements.
• Aptitude for establishing and nurturing relationships with Indigenous communities, funders, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation and collaboration skills to foster partnerships and advance organizational objectives.
• Tech-savvy with up-to-date knowledge of various technology concepts such as coding, UX/UI design, AI, cybersecurity, and related areas.
• (Desirable) Proficiency in Theory of Change: The successful candidate should demonstrate a deep understanding and ability to apply the Theory of Change in planning and monitoring projects. They should be adept at developing logical, results-based frameworks to guide the planning, implementation, and evaluation of initiatives.

Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, or Inuit) candidates are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to self-identify in their covering letter.  

Diversity Statement

IFA embraces Diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

Accessibility Statement

IFA strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our vision and mission.

IFA is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact HR Manager at hr@indigenousfriends.org. 

Thank you for your interest in a career at the INDIGENOUS FRIENDS ASSOCIATION!