Executive Director

Canadian Network of Agencies for Regulation (CNAR)

The Canadian Network of Agencies for Regulation (CNAR) was established in 2003 as a federation of national organizations whose provincial and territorial members are responsible for protecting the public through profession and occupation regulation Today, CNAR connects Canada’s provincial and national regulators, licensing boards, accrediting agencies, examining bodies, and government officials at all levels to discuss challenges, share ideas and develop best practices related to a wide range of issues relevant to organizations engaged in the regulation of professions and occupations.

CNAR’s mission is to advance excellence in profession and occupation regulation by providing high-quality educational programming, fostering networking opportunities, and supporting regulatory best practices across diverse professions and occupations. Through an annual conference, communities of practice, and other educational initiatives, CNAR serves as a hub for knowledge sharing and innovation within the regulatory sector.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The CNAR Board of Directors is seeking an Executive Director (ED) to provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the organization, advancing CNAR’s mission of fostering engagement among Canada’s professional regulatory community and enhancing regulatory excellence through its programming. The ED will also ensure alignment of CNAR’s programming and initiatives with the evolving needs and priorities of its members, while building meaningful relationships and delivering measurable value to its members.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate brings extensive senior leadership experience in non-profit management, professional associations, or regulatory organizations, coupled with strong governance expertise and a demonstrated ability to deliver impactful programs. Having exceptional political acumen and strategic insight, the ED will be positioned to interpret and navigate a complex regulatory landscape and diverse environments.

A proven relationship builder, the ideal candidate excels in fostering trust, collaboration, and consensus across members, Board of Directors, government agencies, and community partners. They are driven to support members’ priorities and regulatory excellence, leveraging a deep network to gather input, expertise, and support to advance CNAR’s mission.

The Executive Director will be a dynamic and innovative leader, skilled at balancing competing priorities and finding practical solutions that maximize value for the organization and its members. With a keen ability to communicate clearly and professionally, they will elevate CNAR’s presence and influence while promoting a culture of engagement and inclusion.

Success in this role requires a collaborative, resilient leader who can align the organization’s vision with actionable strategies, ensuring the effective delivery of programs and services to its members. The ideal candidate demonstrates personal credibility, confidence, and a nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives, inspiring teams and partners alike to achieve CNAR’s strategic objectives.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a national organization that is at the forefront of regulatory excellence. As Executive Director, you’ll have the flexibility of working remotely while overseeing a team that is dedicated to advancing CNAR’s mission. Join CNAR in shaping the future of Canada’s regulatory community.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Contributing to the Board’s strategic plan by offering expertise and insights to shape strategic priorities, while aligning programs and initiatives with CNAR’s mission and goals and advancing organizational excellence and sustainability.
• Overseeing financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and supporting organizational sustainability.
• Operationalizing the strategic plan by developing annual plans aligned with CNAR’s long-term objectives and leading staff and contractors to execute programs and initiatives effectively.
• Providing expert governance support to the Board, including delivering data-driven insights and actionable recommendations to inform decision-making.
• Adapting strategies to respond to changes in the regulatory landscape and supporting CNAR’s growth.
• Leading the expansion and innovation of programming, that embodies high-quality, accessible regulatory education and networking opportunities.
• Communicating CNAR’s mission through impactful communication strategies.
• Ensuring the success of flagship events and other member-focused initiatives that foster engagement and collaboration.

QUALIFICATIONS & KEY ATTRIBUTES

• Leadership Experience: 10+ years of senior management experience in government, private sector, or professional associations, with a focus on leadership and administration of related services. Extensive experience working with Boards, associations, government officials, and diverse communities at all levels.
• Education: Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, organizational leadership, or a related field preferred (other equivalent education and experience will be considered); certifications in governance, non-profit management, or regulatory affairs are an asset.
• Strategic Expertise: Proven ability to develop and implement multi-faceted strategic plans, setting priorities, aligning resources, and achieving organizational goals.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of Canada’s regulatory environment and best practices in professional development.
• Problem-Solving and Data-Driven Decisions: Skilled at finding practical solutions and leveraging data to maximize outcomes.
• Exceptional Communication: Articulate, diplomatic, and engaging communicator, adept at building trust and rapport with members, staff, partners, and the Board, with strong writing skills to craft clear, persuasive, and professional documents and correspondence. Proficiency in both English and French is considered an asset.
• Relationship Building: Builds strong connections with partners, with a focus on understanding and responding to member needs to deliver exceptional value and foster collaboration.
• Team Leadership: Demonstrated ability to create a collaborative, inclusive, and safe organizational culture that values diverse perspectives.
• Integrity and Advocacy: High degree of self-awareness, transparency, and interpersonal skills, combined with a strong commitment to ethical leadership and advocacy.

COMPENSATION

CNAR offers a competitive salary range of $165,000–$185,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package, recognizing the importance of attracting and retaining top talent to advance its mission.

CONTACT US

If this opportunity aligns with your interest, experience, and qualifications, we invite you to apply in confidence by sending your cover letter and current resume to Arthur Lyons at arthur@wmc.on.ca.

This position will remain open until filled, with an initial review of applications beginning on January 31, 2025.

Please note: Leadership assessments and background checks will be conducted as part of the selection process. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted by CNAR.