Head of Programs

(interviews on a rolling basis)
Salary range (1

FTE): $90,000 – $100,000 CAD
Purpose of the role  The Head of Programs provides integrated strategic and operational leadership for Can Assist's programs across Employment, Education, and Health & Wellbeing. This role is responsible for both the design and quality of programs (what we deliver and why) and how participants, families, and partners experience them (how we deliver and with what effect).
A defining feature of this role is a commitment to data-informed decision-making and measurable outcomes. The Head of Programs leads the development and use of program performance frameworks, participant outcome indicators, and continuous learning systems that ensure Can Assist can demonstrate impact, adapt based on evidence, and make the case for sustained and expanded investment.
Using a systems-thinking lens, this role connects strategy, data, service quality, and lived experience to strengthen program coherence, reduce access barriers, and advance meaningful, measurable change for people with disabilities.
What does the Head of Programs do?  Outcomes, measurement, and learning  This is a core focus of the role. The Head of Programs is responsible for building and sustaining a program performance culture grounded in data, reflection, and accountability.
Develop and implement a program-wide outcomes and measurement framework, including logic models, indicators, data collection methods, and reporting processes across Employment, Education, and Health & Wellbeing.
Define meaningful participant outcome indicators, including access, engagement, progression, and impact, and ensure consistent tracking across all programs and service environments.
Lead regular review cycles using data to assess program effectiveness, identify gaps, and make evidence-based adjustments.
Translate program data into clear narratives for internal decision-making, funder reporting, and public accountability.

Foster a culture of learning and inquiry where evaluation is embedded into program design, not added on after delivery.
Synthesize insights across programs to identify patterns, surface systemic barriers, and inform strategic planning.
Use participant feedback, service experience data, and access indicators to ensure programs are improving over time.
Revenue generation and funding strategy   Use program data, evaluation findings, and outcome evidence to build compelling funding narratives that demonstrate impact and scalability.
Lead and contribute to grant applications, including budgets, logic models, and outcome frameworks, across Employment, Education, Health & Wellbeing, and assistive technology initiatives.
Collaborate with ED or other Heads to develop new service pathways and revenue opportunities grounded in program performance evidence.
Ensure high-quality, measurable participant experience and outcomes directly informs funder reporting and sustainability strategies.
Partner with funders, research institutions, and policy bodies to co-develop initiatives that generate revenue while advancing systemic change.
Strategic vision and program development   Lead the development of integrated program strategies across Employment, Education, and Health & Wellbeing.
Translate strategy into accessible, person-centred service models with clear outcome targets.
Ensure assistive technology considerations are embedded in program design, in collaboration with the Head of Inclusive Technology & Systems.
Identify and address access barriers across physical, digital, and socio-cultural environments.
Guide program evolution based on evidence, sector trends, and the lived experience of participants.
Service quality and participant experience   Ensure services are…