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
