Executive Director

Are you called to work with The Contemplative Society (TCS)?

TCS is looking for a Canada-based Executive Director who will use their professional skills to facilitate the work of bringing the Christian Wisdom tradition to western North America. We are a Canadian charity based out of Victoria, BC (charity # 878177161RR0001).

The Society draws upon and promotes the work of Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault as one of the primary Wisdom teachers for The Contemplative Society. We do so by sponsoring retreats, wisdom schools, and workshops led by Cynthia and other distinguished teachers of the Christian contemplative path; through the sales of instructional and inspiration materials supportive of the contemplative life; by actively nurturing local teachers of the contemplative way; by maintaining communication among TCS members and friends; and by coordinating with other groups supporting Wisdom work.

The contract for Executive Director is for 60 hours per month, and may be performed remotely. Please see below for more information.

The Executive Director:

• is accountable to the Board of Directors;
• assists the Board in creating an effective organization structure;
• maintains and secures TCS files and records;
• creates and complies with TCS policies;
• coordinates, supports, and liaises with the various task groups and activities of TCS;
• coordinates volunteers and volunteer assignments;
• manages contract relationships (store manager, website development, book-keeping, donation appeals, event coordinators, tech support);
• manages personnel, including hiring and training;
• monitoring and maintaining TCS community engagement lists (Keela, Paypal, WooCommerce);
• ensures that TCS as a non-profit, charitable organization, complies with the BC Societies Act and Canada Revenue Agencies rules and regulations;
• ensures that TCS records, inventory and equipment are kept secure;
• attends meetings with Board and Committees as necessary;
• assists the Board in strategic planning and visioning future directions for TCS;
• collaborates with the Treasurer and Bookkeeper to ensure the financial viability and stability of TCS;
• oversees audio ministry (sales, editing team, new product development, promotion);
• supports the TCS store manager in ensuring that sales and inventory are managed effectively with timely order response, delivery, and high customer satisfaction;
• encourages transparency, good communication, member and employee satisfaction, and positive community engagement;
• develops and maintains relationships with other organizations within the contemplative network;
• develops and maintains communication with partner organizations, contemplative groups and hubs;
• work is performed remotely, which may include meetings.

Attendance of special events is not required, unless compensated as below (i.e., weekly compensation of $825 is maintained plus coverage of any fees, transportation, and accommodations. Work performed by the ED during this time, whether related to the event or other TCS business, will accordingly not exceed 15 hours/week).

Qualifications:

Postsecondary education (degree or diploma) and minimum of two years administrative experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills and Experience:

• Ability to work collaboratively with a board and its committees.
• Ability to work independently, with little supervision, amid competing priorities.
• Excellent time management, problem-solving, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Experience working with a not-for-profit organization, including fundraising.
• Adherence to financial policies and procedures.
• Excellent communication skills, including drafting correspondence, and responding to inquiries and requests.
• Experience maintaining databases and filing systems.
• Computer skills including experience in Word processing, Outlook, and Excel spreadsheets.
• Experience in bookkeeping software, website management, email marketing programs, and other computer applications, particularly a CRM.

Assets:

• Experience with QuickBooks, WordPress, and Keela specifically.
• A background in business, fundraising, and/or marketing.
• Knowledge of the Vision, Mission and Values of the Contemplative Society.
• Preference will be given to candidates with a personal centering prayer, meditation or contemplative practice of ANY religious, spiritual, or other similar affiliation.

Contract term:

The contract term is October 16, 2023 to October 15, 2024 or one year, with a 2-month probationary period. You will have the opportunity to renew the contract at the end of its term.

Compensation:

• $55/hour for 60 hours/month to a maximum total of $39,600 by end of term.
• Payment will be made on the last day of each month of the contract term, on receipt of invoice of hours worked.

Please contact us at admin@contemplative.org to submit your cover letter and résumé/CV, or with your questions. Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada, and preferably based in Victoria, BC.