• Full-time, 1-year fixed term contract with possibility of extension
• Position is based in Yellowknife, but remote work arrangements from other communities in the NWT will be considered

Northern Youth Leadership (NYL) is seeking a candidate with extensive experience in non-profit management and grant writing, with a passion for empowering youth through land-based programming for the position of Project Director. The Project Director is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the organization to ensure the success of its land-based programming. This includes grant writing and donor stewardship, organizing camp logistics, assessing and managing risk, maintaining budgets, writing reports, building partnerships, and developing and adapting camp content. The Project Director is also responsible for supervising a full-time Program Coordinator, and working collaboratively with them to mentor and train seasonal youth staff through the Leadership Development Program.

The Project Director is answerable to a committed group of volunteer Steering Committee members and works closely with MakeWay Charitable Society to successfully implement and maintain operating, financial and administrative systems, and policies and procedures that support NYL programming.

We recognize that many excellent candidates may not meet every requirement listed below, therefore if you are excited about this position and think you would do a great job and meet many of the requirements, we encourage you to apply! Please note that applicants must be able to work in Canada.

Working and Living Conditions:

• During times of the year when programming is active, particularly the summer, this position requires working some additional hours and weekends.
• While this is an office-based position, depending on the successful candidate’s interest and skills, there may be opportunities for participating on NYL’s remote wilderness camps, which involves working in unfavourable environmental conditions, additional physical demands associated with remote wilderness trips, as well as travel by boat and small aircraft.

How to Apply:

• With “Application for Project Director” in the subject line, please email your resume and cover letter to hr@northernyouth.ca.
• This posting will remain open until the position is filled.

• Provide strategic leadership for the planning and successful execution of NYL land-based programming including day-to-day operations and program monitoring and evaluation.
• Ensure the financial health of the project by implementing a fundraising strategy to secure a strong, diversified and sustainable funding base through grant writing and funder stewardship.
• Lead the preparation of the annual budget for Steering Committee and MakeWay approval and prepare regular budget updates.
• Manage project finances including submission of expenses and invoices, review of financial reports and ensuring accurate documentation in line with MakeWay policy and procedures.
• Develop and nurture positive working relationships with key stakeholders including program participants, parents, staff, volunteers, partners, community agencies and service providers.
• Ensure compliance with all grant agreements and all policies and procedures of MakeWay Charitable Society.
• Organize and implement full cycle HR process with employees, contractors and volunteers in accordance with MakeWay HR guidelines, including: recruitment, orientation, training, development, and performance management.
• Represent NYL, with responsibility for implementing effective branding, social media, media relations, and partnerships.
• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator to run NYL land-based programming including its development, preparation, implementation, clean-up and debriefing.
• Be responsible for the health and safety of all campers, volunteers, and staff including their social and emotional well-being.
• Understand and implement all NYL policies and procedures and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas.

• 3-5 years’ experience managing non-profit projects with annual budgets of at least $300,000
• 3-5 years’ experience with grant writing (private, provincial/territorial and federal) and donor stewardship leading to annual revenue generation of at least $300,000.
• Bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, business, social work, or other related fields, or equivalent experience
• Experience leading substantial projects and/or other organizations (budgets, strategy, accountability, etc.)
• Experience with staff training and performance management
• Strong collaborative leadership and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced setting
• Self-starter who takes initiative and can work with minimal supervision
• Organized, detail-oriented and efficient, with strong time management and prioritization skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to interact tactfully, respectfully, and non-judgmentally with everyone (colleagues, youth and general public)
• Knowledge of Northern social and cultural context
• Valid Driver’s License
• Ability to provide a clear vulnerable sector check

The following criteria is not essential, but would be considered assets:

• 3-5 years’ experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds
• Wilderness First Aid
• Mental Health First Aid and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training certifications
• Experience working in remote Northern communities
• Experience with planning, logistics, and camp preparation of extended remote wilderness trips
• Ability to lead other people in a wilderness setting through exceptional skills such as risk management, decision-making, leadership and team building.

NYL is a project on MakeWay Charitable Society’s shared platform. NYL brings together youth from across the NWT and the Canadian Arctic for remote land-based programming to develop leadership skills, life skills, emotional resilience, and to engage in positive risk-taking. MakeWay builds partnerships and solutions to help nature and communities thrive together. The Shared Platform is home to over 60 projects working on community-led solutions that further MakeWay’s mission.