Executive Director – We Are Young (WAY)

At We Are Young (WAY), a registered Canadian charity, we enrich the lives of older adults across Atlantic Canada and Ontario by granting unfulfilled wishes and fostering meaningful intergenerational connections. Through this work, we raise awareness of the inequalities older adults face, promote respect and appreciation for their contributions, and inspire inclusion and belonging within communities.

As WAY enters its second decade of growth and transformation, we are seeking a visionary and dynamic Executive Director to lead its next chapter. This is a unique opportunity to expand WAY’s impact, reach, and sustainability while advancing a positive and inclusive narrative that redefines how society views and values aging.

As Executive Director, you will serve as the strategic and fundraising leader for We Are Young. You will report to and work closely with a volunteer Board of Directors, a small but dedicated team, and community partners to develop innovative revenue streams, strengthen organizational systems, and expand programming that enriches the lives of seniors. This pivotal role serves as the organization’s primary spokesperson, responsible for building strong relationships with current and future donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders. The successful candidate will champion the mission of inclusion, respect, and intergenerational connection for older adults.

We are seeking a mission-driven leader who thrives in a nonprofit or community-focused environment. You have a proven track record of fundraising, partnership development, and organizational growth, and you bring strong business and financial acumen to the role. Your leadership style is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and solutions-oriented, balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution. You are an exceptional communicator, capable of inspiring diverse audiences and representing the organization publicly. This role is remote, with frequent meetings and events in the Halifax area.

In this impactful role, you will:

• Provide visionary, hands-on leadership to guide WAY’s growth, transformation, and long-term sustainability in alignment with its mission, values, and strategic priorities.
• Manage the creation and execution of a diversified fundraising and partnership strategy that grows philanthropic support through individual giving, corporate partnerships, grants, sponsorships, and events.
• Lead organizational operations and financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility, efficient systems, and accurate reporting through effective budgeting, forecasting, and performance measurement.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to refine and implement strategic and operational plans, ensuring effective governance, compliance, and transparent reporting.
• Serve as a visible and inspiring spokesperson, fostering relationships with donors, sponsors, community partners, and volunteers to enhance awareness, engagement, and advocacy for seniors.

If you are ready to lead a committed team, expand the impact of a mission-driven organization, and make a lasting difference in the lives of seniors, we invite you to apply.

We Are Young values diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion, and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to self-identify in their resume or cover letter. We particularly welcome applications from Indigenous persons, racially visible persons, persons with a disability, women, and persons of a minority sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

To learn more about We Are Young please visit: https://www.weareyoung.ca/

Please submit your resume online by clicking “Apply.” For more information, contact Erica Armstrong confidentially at earmstrong@royerthompson.com. If you need accommodation during the selection process, please let us know.

We believe in employment equity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We encourage applications from the following under-represented groups to self-identify in their resume or cover letter: Indigenous persons, racially visible persons, persons with a disability, women, and persons of a minority sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Facet is a recruitment firm with an unshakeable belief that change is a good thing. People are not only our purpose, they are also our passion. Facet was created to recruit talented, established professionals who aspire to lead organizations. We are inspired by these individuals and believe they are at the core of building purpose-driven, dynamic, and forward-thinking workplaces.