Executive Director
The Central Student Association (CSA) represents and serves undergraduate students at the University of Guelph. Through advocacy, services, events, student supports, and business operations, the CSA works to enhance student experience and strengthen campus life.
We are seeking an experienced and collaborative Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the organization.
As a permanent staff member, the Executive Director must uphold and support the CSA's Mandate and Approach and work towards the overall success of the CSA and the Team as we serve our members.
Position summary
Reporting to a Supervisory Committee of the Board or Directors and working closely with the elected student Executive Team, the Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and operational management of the CSA.
The Executive Director provides guidance and support to staff and student leaders, ensures the effective delivery of services and programs, oversees organizational finances and human resources, and helps advance the long-term goals of the organization. This role requires a strong leader who can balance strategic thinking with day-to-day operational excellence in a dynamic, student-centered environment.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership
· Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the organization.
· Support the Board of Directors and Executive Team in achieving organizational goals and priorities.
· Foster a positive, collaborative, and student-focused organizational culture.
· Identify opportunities for growth, partnerships, and service enhancement.
· Ensure organizational policies, procedures, and practices align with legal and regulatory requirements.
· Support the annual Executive Transition process and ongoing skills development of the Executive Team, in collaboration with the Policy & Transition Coordinator.
Operations and Administration
· Oversee the day-to-day operations of the CSA, including services, programs, facilities, and business functions.
· Ensure effective administrative systems, processes, and organizational record keeping.
· Support long-term planning, risk management, and organizational sustainability.
· Maintain relationships with university partners, community organizations, vendors, and external stakeholders.
Financial Management
· Support the development and administration of annual operating budgets.
· Oversee financial controls, reporting processes, and organizational accountability measures.
· Monitor organizational financial performance and support long-term financial planning.
· Assist with contract management, asset management, and organizational risk mitigation.
Human Resources Leadership
· Provide leadership and act as the Direct Supervisor of the Permanent Staff Team.
· Support recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and professional development initiatives.
· Promote a healthy, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture.
· Ensure compliance with applicable employment legislation and organizational policies.
Governance Support
· Serve as a resource to the Board of Directors and Executive Team on operational matters.
· Prepare reports and recommendations related to organizational performance, risks, and opportunities.
· Support governance processes, strategic planning, and policy development.
qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess:
· A university degree in business, public administration, nonprofit management, human resources, or related fields.
· Significant leadership and management experience, preferably within a nonprofit, student association, membership-based organization, or similar environment.
· Experience overseeing organizational operations, finances, and human resources.
· Strong understanding of governance structures and working with Boards of Directors.
· Excellent communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.
· Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities, and navigate organizational change.
· Experience working within a post-secondary environment is considered an asset.
What we’re looking for
We are seeking a leader who is:
· Strategic and forward-thinking.
· Collaborative and approachable.
· Committed to accountability, transparency, and integrity.
· Passionate about supporting students and fostering organizational success.
· Comfortable working in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
Employment details
· Full-time, permanent position.
· Three-month probationary period.
· Evening work to attend Board of Directors and committee meetings.
· Compensation: $80,000 - 100,000
Deadline for applications is August 14, 2026 at 5:00pm.
Resumes and Cover letters should be submitted online through the CSA application process found at
https://csaonline.ca/get-involved/job-opportunities/
For a complete copy of the CSA Hiring Policy, visit https://csaonline.ca/about/bylaws-policies. The CSA hiring policy is found in Appendix C of the Policy Manual, Section 4.0.
The CSA is a committed to employment equity and to the creation of a working environment that is welcoming for all applicants. We particularly encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, racialized people, international students and members of Queer communities.
The Central Student Association welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. To arrange accommodations, please contact [email protected]
New hires who require an Accommodation Plan must request a meeting with the CSA President, prior to the hire date specified in the employment contract. This meeting will be confidential and specific to the individual’s needs.
The successful candidate will be required to complete and satisfactorily pass pre-employment screening, which may include verification of identity, education and employment history, professional credentials (if applicable), reference checks, a Criminal Record Check, and other job-related background checks. Any required checks will be conducted only with the candidate’s consent and in accordance with applicable legislation.
Pay: $80,000.00-$100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
