Executive Director

Executive Director

The Vanier Institute of the Family (“Vanier Institute”) seeks a visionary leader to provide strategic and operational leadership for a national charitable organization committed to enhancing family wellbeing in Canada.

The Vanier Institute is a national charitable organization that shares evidence and strengthens the understanding of families in Canada, supporting evidence‑based decisions that promote family wellbeing.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will lead the organization, build a powerful voice on families, and mobilize knowledge to increase the institute’s visibility, influence policy, and expand national reach.

• Strategic leadership, team development, and successful management of the organization.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson, championing the vision and mission and enhancing media, public relations, policy influence, and communications.
• Revitalize and update the strategic plan to seize opportunities for new cross‑sector partnerships and diversified funding.
• Drive media and public presence and expand the institute’s national audience.

• 7+ years of executive leadership experience within a not‑for‑profit organization or government.
• Track record of building strong partnerships and reporting to a Board of Directors.
• Background in family studies, social sciences, or a closely adjacent field and literacy in evaluating research.
• Strong experience influencing social policy is preferred.
• Proficiency in both English and French.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through collaboration, change management, and innovation.

Hybrid position in Ottawa. Candidates outside the Ottawa/Gatineau area must be willing to travel to Ottawa regularly or relocate. Target salary is $180,000 per year, commensurate with experience.

The Vanier Institute is an equal‑opportunity employer that welcomes candidates from equity‑deserving groups and is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. Contact  if you require accommodation during any aspect of the recruitment process.