Executive Director, John Tavares Foundation

About the John Tavares Foundation 

The John Tavares Foundation, established in 2020, is dedicated to ensuring that children have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. We focus on empowering young people to participate actively in their communities, explore their passions, and transform their potential into meaningful possibilities.

Our work centres on creating and strengthening initiatives that provide children and families with essential tools to reach their full potential. Children are our future, and we believe in empowering kids to be kids, families to be families, and communities to grow stronger together.

Our Mission 

Our mission is to create lasting change for marginalized and underserved children and families in Canada by ensuring access to nutritious food, health resources, and community support.

Our Vision 

Our vision is to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to partake in their inner-passions and give underserved communities a chance to thrive.

Our Giving Pillars 

1. Food: Access to and importance of proper nutrition 
2. Resources: Tools and resources to encourage change 
3. Activity: Fun and inspiring ways to be more active 
4. Connection: Opportunities for community economic development 

Position Summary 

The Executive Director is a values-aligned operator who serves as the John Tavares Foundation's chief steward of mission, donors, and day-to-day execution. Reporting to the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Director (CEO), the Executive Director translates Board direction into action by leading fundraising and sponsorship efforts, managing donor relationships, and overseeing the operational workflow that keeps the Foundation running smoothly. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who moves comfortably between strategic thinking and the detailed administrative work of running a charitable organization. The ideal candidate brings a multifaceted experience in the charitable sector, strong relationship-building skills, and a genuine commitment to the Foundation's mission and values.

Hybrid role

Employment Type: Full-time or part-time

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Sponsorships 

• Lead the development and execution of fundraising and sponsorship strategies 
• Identify, cultivate, and secure new sponsorship and funding opportunities 
• Prepare and distribute fundraising and sponsorship materials, proposals, and reports to current and prospective partners 

Donor Relations & Stewardship 

• Build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners 
• Develop and implement donor stewardship plans to ensure recognition, retention, and continued engagement 
• Serve as a primary point of contact for donor inquiries and relationship management

Administration & Compliance 

• Oversee the preparation and distribution of official donation receipts in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements 
• Maintain accurate donor and financial records to support compliance and reporting
• Ensure administrative processes align with applicable charitable-sector regulations and best practices 
• Oversee event management and activation of foundation programming 

Events & Program Activation 

• Oversee planning and execution of all foundation events, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives 
• Lead the activation of foundation programming, coordinating partners, resources, and timelines to deliver high-impact community initiatives 

Operations & Organizational Workflow 

• Manage day-to-day operations, ensuring the Foundation runs efficiently and effectively
• Establish and refine workflows, systems, and processes to support organizational growth 
• Oversee budgeting, financial tracking, and resource allocation in support of Foundation priorities 

Community Engagement 

• Serve as an ambassador for the Foundation within the community
• Cultivate relationships with community organizations, partners, and stakeholders to advance the Foundation's mission 
• Identify opportunities for collaboration and partnership that extend the Foundation's reach and impact 

Board Relations & Execution 

• Serve as the primary link between the Board and day-to-day operations, translating Board direction into actionable plans 
• Provide regular updates and reporting to the Board on fundraising, operations, and progress toward goals 
• Support Board governance functions and participate in Board meetings as required 

Qualifications & Experience 

A minimum of 7+ years of relevant experience in fundraising, non-profit management, or a related field. Must be based in Canada.

Candidates must demonstrate:

• A proven fundraising track record
• Be a self-starter who drives action
• Show strong financial management and attention to detail
• Excel in communication, relationship building, organization, and community engagement
• Bring event implementation experience to support high-quality program and activation delivery

What We Offer 

• Full-time salary: $80,000 
• Part-time salary: (0.5–0.65 FTE) 
• Hybrid role
• Benefits negotiable based on the needs and experience of the successful candidate.