Executive Director

Position Title: Executive Director – Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel
Position Type: Full-time, Permanent (40 hours per week)
Location: Calgary, AB
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Organization Overview
Established in 1978, the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP) is a not-for-profit organization that provides education, consultation, and advocacy in recreation and facility operations. AARFP is supported by a volunteer Board of Directors, dedicated staff, and a membership of over 1,400 professionals and 60+ associate organizations.
We offer a broad range of courses in areas such as arena operations, pool maintenance, parks and sport field management, building maintenance, curling, client service, and leadership. In addition, AARFP hosts an annual conference and trade show, an education symposium, and produces a variety of digital and print resources—including logbooks, webinars, and a quarterly magazine.
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Position Summary
The Executive Director (ED) is the chief administrative officer of AARFP. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED provides strategic leadership and operational oversight in accordance with the Societies Act of Alberta, and in alignment with AARFP’s mission, vision, and strategic plan.
This role is responsible for implementing board-approved policies, overseeing financial and human resource management, ensuring effective program delivery, and fostering relationships with members, partners, and stakeholders.
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Key Responsibilities
1 Governance & Board Support
     • Provide timely and accurate reports and information to support board decision-making.
     • Offer strategic advice, policy recommendations, and operational insights to the Board.
     • Implement board-approved policies, plans, and directives.
     • Attend all Board and key committee meetings or assign a delegate.
     • Maintain effective communication between Board and staff.
     • Support the Board in its fiduciary, strategic, and oversight responsibilities
2 Operational Leadership
     • Lead and manage the administrative team.
     • Develop and implement the Association’s business and operational plans.
     • Monitor the quality and effectiveness of programs and services.
     • Continuously improve internal processes and systems.
     • Expand delivery and reach of educational programs.
     • Negotiate and coordinate custom course offerings and consulting services.
3 Financial Oversight
     • Collaborate with the Treasurer, staff, and/or contractors to prepare annual budgets and financial reports.
     • Provide regular financial updates to the Board, including oversight of banking, investments, and auditor recommendations.
     • Oversee grant applications, service contracts, funding agreements, and required reporting.
     • Identify and pursue opportunities to diversify and grow revenue streams.
4 Stakeholder & External Relations
     • Represent the Association with government agencies, partner organizations, and industry stakeholders.
     • Advocate for consistent standards in recreation facility education.
     • Promote the Association at industry events, conferences, and trade shows.
5 Human Resources & Staff Management
     • Oversee HR functions, including recruitment, performance management, and staff development.
     • Ensure instructors and staff are adequately credentialed, supported, and evaluated.
     • Conduct annual and ongoing performance reviews for all employees.
     • Act as the Human Resources Officer in consultation with the Board President.
     • Recommend staffing, compensation, or workplace changes to the Board.
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Qualifications
     • Post-secondary education in business administration, not-for-profit leadership, recreation, or a related field (equivalent experience will be considered).
     • Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience, preferably in recreation, facility management, or the non-profit sector.
     • Proven ability to manage budgets, financial reporting, and contracts.
     • Experience with grant writing and government funding accountability.
     • Experience working with or reporting to a non-profit board is an asset.
     • Strong background in event coordination and volunteer engagement.
     • Knowledge of the Societies Act, bylaws, and governance best practices.
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Skills
     • Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
     • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
     • Strategic thinking and sound decision-making capabilities.
     • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
     • Experience as an AARFP instructor is considered an asset.
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Working Conditions
     • The role is primarily on-site in Calgary (Monday–Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm).
     • Occasional remote work may be accommodated, subject to approval.
     • The position involves occasional travel for meetings and program delivery; mileage is reimbursed according to organizational policy.
     • Required attendance at the annual conference, trade show, symposium, cadre, regular board meetings, and select industry events.
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Benefits
     • Health, wellness, and learning benefits
     • Paid vacation package
     • Paid sick leave for illness or medical appointments
     • Time off in lieu, subject to approval
     • Access to a Group Registered Savings Plan (Group RSP)

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