General Manager

Organization Overview

The Mel Jr. & Marty Zajac Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Vancouver, BC, dedicated to supporting children and young adults with complex medical needs through inclusive, life-changing experiences. Our primary program, Zajac Ranch, operates on 41 acres along Stave Lake in Mission, BC, delivering fully accessible summer medical camps and year-round rental programs. Revenue generated through group bookings and events directly supports our camp programs.

Reports To:

Wendy Zajac

Direct Reports

• Director, Camp Operations & Recreation
• Director of Facilities
• Chef/Kitchen Manager
• Head of Housekeeping

Position Summary:

The General Manager is responsible for the overall operational leadership and performance of Zajac Ranch, ensuring the site is safe, well-maintained, efficiently run, and delivering high-quality experiences for campers, guests, and partners.

This role oversees day-to-day Ranch operations, staff leadership, facilities and site standards, and on-site guest experience, while working closely with the Foundation’s leadership and sales team to support revenue growth and strategic alignment.

The General Manager is the primary on-site leader and decision-maker, accountable for ensuring that all aspects of Ranch operations are executed to a high standard.

Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership & Site Oversight

• Lead and oversee all day-to-day Ranch operations, including programming, rentals, hospitality services, and guest experience.
• Ensure the Ranch environment is consistently safe, clean, organized, and fully operational across all facilities, buildings, and outdoor spaces.
• Conduct regular site walk-throughs and inspections to ensure spaces are properly maintained, used appropriately, and secured (including lights, heating, windows, and general upkeep).
• Ensure seamless operations during all on-site user groups, proactively addressing issues and maintaining a high standard of service delivery.
• Serve as the primary on-site decision-maker, resolving operational issues in a timely and effective manner.
  

2. Staff Leadership, Supervision & Accountability

• Provide direct leadership and supervision to all department heads, ensuring clarity of roles, expectations, and performance standards.
• Conduct regular 1:1 check-ins with all direct reports, with key updates, priorities, follow-up items, and support needs tracked in Monday.com or another approved tracking system to ensure visibility, accountability, and consistency. The format of these check-ins may vary depending on the role and operational needs; however, all direct reports should receive regular support, guidance, and follow-up.
  • Review priorities, tasks, and deliverables
  • Track progress and address challenges
  • Ensure alignment with organizational goals
• Lead monthly department head meetings to coordinate operations, align priorities, and ensure cross-functional collaboration.
• Ensure all teams are working from clear workplans, task lists, or project boards (e.g., Monday.com) with visibility into progress and accountability.
• Oversee performance management, including goal setting, ongoing feedback, and performance reviews.
• Foster a culture of accountability, communication, and teamwork across the Ranch.

3. Facilities & Operational Standards

• Oversee the care, maintenance, and functionality of all Ranch facilities, equipment, and infrastructure in collaboration with the Facilities team.
• Ensure proactive planning for maintenance, repairs, and operational readiness.
• Maintain high standards for cleanliness, safety, and presentation across all spaces.
• Identify operational gaps and escalate capital needs appropriately (while not directly managing capital projects).

4. Sales Support & Revenue Growth

• Support the growth of Ranch revenue by working closely with the Foundation’s sales and marketing team and Executive Director by conducting the following:
  • Actively contribute to lead generation and relationship-building, including identifying opportunities and connecting the sales team with new prospects.
  • Ensure strong on-site execution of rentals and events, supporting client satisfaction, retention, and repeat bookings.
  • Provide operational insight to support pricing, offerings, and overall rental strategy.

5. Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Support the development and management of certain aspects of the Ranch’s operational budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Monitor operational expenses and contribute to cost-effective decision-making.
• Ensure appropriate use and tracking of resources, supplies, and services.

6. Risk Management & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements, including BC Camp Association (BCCA) standards.
• Lead emergency preparedness and response planning for the Ranch.
• Promote a culture of safety and accountability across all teams.

7. Organizational Alignment & Communication

• Maintain strong alignment between Ranch operations and the Foundation’s strategic priorities.
• Provide regular updates to the Executive Team on operations, staffing, risks, and performance.
• Ensure clear communication across teams and departments.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• A well-run, organized, and high-functioning Ranch environment
• Strong staff performance and accountability, with consistent communication and follow-through
• High-quality camper, guest, and rental experiences
• Clear visibility into tasks, priorities, and operational progress
• Effective collaboration between Ranch operations and the Foundation team
• Proactive identification and resolution of operational challenges

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum 8+ years of senior leadership experience in operations, hospitality, camp, or a related environment
• Proven experience managing teams, budgets, and complex operations
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Experience in facility oversight and/or site operations
• Background in camp, outdoor education, or hospitality environments preferred
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong systems-thinking approach with experience using tools such as CRM systems or project management platforms

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Extended health and dental benefits
• On-site accommodation option available (if required)
• Paid vacation and time off

Schedule & Location:

• Full-time, primarily on-site in Mission, BC
• Some evenings and weekends required based on operational needs