Job Description
| Position Title: | Executive Director |
| Reports to: | The Superior of the Jesuits of Canada through the Board of Directors |
| Office Location: | Toronto, Canada |
| Type of employment: | Permanent, full-time (with a 6-month probationary period). This is currently a hybrid position with 3 to 4 days a week at the office. This could be subject to change. |
| Size of staff: | 9 people |
| Staring salary range: | $95,000 to $105,000 |
| Benefits: | Yearly COLA increases; 5% contribution to RRSP; benefits package; starting vacation three weeks (to increase up to 5 weeks). |
About Canadian Jesuits International
Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) is the international solidarity agency of the Jesuits of Canada. It is a non-profit, non-governmental, faith-based organization dedicated to sustainable international solidarity. CJI supports Jesuits and other partners in Africa, Asia, Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean to promote social, economic and ecological justice, human rights, peace and reconciliation, and to provide humanitarian assistance. These activities are carried out in coordination with the global network of Jesuit organizations. CJI also carries out public education and advocacy in Canada to promote social justice and global solidarity. It sustains its activities through the generous donations of Canadians.
CJI is a small, dynamic and professional team of 9 people that provides the environment and the opportunities to make a difference through prophetic, human rights-focused work.
Summary of the role
CJI is seeking a visionary and values-driven Executive Director, who will lead the organization to ensure its smooth operation, its development and its sustainability, all in compliance with its mission, culture and values. Motivated by a faith that does justice, Catholic Social Teaching and Ignatian Spirituality and deeply committed to international solidarity, the Executive Director will be a steward of our mission, a champion for justice, and a catalyst for impact.
The CJI Executive Director is appointed by the Provincial of the Jesuits of Canada and is accountable to the Provincial Superior through the Board of Directors.
The Executive Director is responsible for the fulfillment of the mission of CJI, the development and implementation of the strategic plan, the sound management of the overall activities of the organization, and the nurturing and strengthening of its national and international network, in close collaboration with the Board, staff, and partners. The Executive Director will ensure that CJI work not only meets urgent needs but also contributes to prophetic social change.
Key Responsibilities
Vision and Strategy
- Inspire and guide the organization with mission-aligned leadership
- Drive a shared vision for global justice and equity, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, ensuring programs respond to the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve
- Cultivate innovation and learning, so that our work remains relevant in a rapidly changing world
- Work closely with the Board of Directors to strengthen governance, accountability, and organizational growth
- Collaborate with leaders of the Jesuits of Canada and of Jesuit apostolates across Canada to promote engagement on social justice and international solidarity
- Monitor and evaluate program impact and adapt strategies as needed
- Establish and maintain meaningful relationships in Canada and abroad with relevant government departments, the international development sector, institutional donors and like-minded organizations working for social change
- Act as the chief spokesperson and advocate for the organization’s mission
Program Impact
- Support the strengthening of Jesuit social justice initiatives in the Global South
- Ensure that programs are community-driven, evidence-based, and transformative
- Strengthen partnerships with Jesuit affiliated organizations, as well as grassroots organizations and movements, recognizing their leadership and amplifying their voices
- Advocate at the national and international level for policies, resources and practices that advance human rights and sustainable development
Advocacy and Awareness Raising
- Strengthen the development of an awareness raising and advocacy program in Canada to build a network of people, especially youth, who are committed to building a more just society
- Work closely with Jesuits and Jesuit affiliated institutions worldwide to support the universal mission of the Society of Jesus with advocacy and solidarity actions for social justice and peace
Resource Mobilization
- Build strong, trust-based relationships with donors and partners who share our values
- Diversify funding streams to sustain and grow our mission-driven work and to ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization
- Tell the story of our impact in ways that move people to act, give, and join us
- Lead resource mobilization strategies, including cultivating and managing relationships with institutional donors, foundations, governments, and the private sector
Stewardship and Accountability
- Promote a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all relevant laws and regulations and foster a work climate of mutual respect for team operation
- Nurture an inclusive organizational culture where staff feel valued, supported, and inspired
- Ensure financial integrity, transparency, and accountability to the communities we serve, the Board, the staff, the members, and donors
- Ensure sound financial management, budgeting, and accountability in line with donor requirements and international standards
- Oversee risk management, compliance, and legal obligations across multiple jurisdictions
- Model ethical leadership grounded in equity, justice, and care
Other duties
- Carry out other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Advanced degree in social sciences, international development, public administration, or related field
- At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in international development, social justice, or related fields
- Experience working in the non-profit sector in the Global South and in Canada
- Excellent knowledge and understanding of Canadian socio-economic, political and cultural realities, as well as of current social justice and international development issues
- Deep understanding of and commitment to Catholic Social Teaching and Ignatian spirituality, with attention to the prophetic mission of CJI, and a commitment to discernment and decision by consensus as much as possible
- Proven track record in strategic management, program development, and fundraising
- Experience working across multiple countries and cultural contexts
- Strong understanding of international development trends, donor landscape, and global policy issues
Skills and Competencies
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Strong financial and organizational management abilities
- Ability to build trust and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and participatory approaches
- Fluency in English required; proficiency in French and Spanish required
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)
- Ability to travel nationally and internationally
- A valid Driver’s License
