Executive Director

Date posted: October 29, 2026

Job description:

About the Ontario Queer Chamber of Commerce

For over 25 years, the Ontario Queer Chamber of Commerce (OQCC) has championed 2SLGBTQI+ businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals by fostering meaningful connections, providing business resources, and advocating for inclusive economic opportunities across Ontario.

As the Chamber continues to strengthen its provincial presence, expand its membership, and advance its strategic priorities, OQCC is entering an exciting new phase of organizational growth and development.

With a renewed focus on membership engagement, strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and long-term sustainability, OQCC is seeking a dynamic and collaborative Executive Director to help shape the Chamber's future and expand its impact across Ontario.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership and organizational oversight to advance OQCC's mission, implement its strategic priorities, and strengthen its long-term sustainability.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, members, community partners, and stakeholders to drive membership growth, develop sustainable revenue opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and expand the Chamber's programs and services.

The Executive Director will oversee a small team supporting administration, operations, marketing, and communications, with opportunities to strengthen organizational capacity as funding and operational needs evolve.

This is an opportunity for a resourceful, relationship-driven leader who is passionate about economic empowerment, community development, and creating meaningful opportunities for Ontario's 2SLGBTQI+ business community.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development

• Lead the implementation of OQCC's strategic plan and governance initiatives in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Translate strategic priorities into actionable operational plans, measurable objectives, and organizational initiatives.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen the Chamber's provincial presence, relevance, and long-term sustainability.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and oversight to staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Establish clear organizational priorities, performance expectations, and accountability measures.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive organizational culture.

Membership Growth & Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to expand OQCC's membership across Ontario.
• Strengthen member retention, engagement, and satisfaction by ensuring membership benefits and services deliver meaningful value.
• Identify opportunities to reach underserved regions, sectors, and business communities.
• Build relationships with existing and prospective members, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Support the development of initiatives that encourage networking, collaboration, professional development, and business growth.

Partnerships, Sponsorships & Revenue Development

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with corporate partners, government agencies, community organizations, and business associations.
• Identify and pursue sponsorships, grants, funding opportunities, and other revenue-generating initiatives.
• Develop strategies to diversify organizational revenue through membership growth, partnerships, sponsorships, and programming.
• Strengthen OQCC's financial sustainability and reduce long-term reliance on individual funding sources.
• Represent the Chamber in partnership discussions and collaborative initiatives that advance its mission.

Program Development & Community Impact

• Provide strategic direction for the development and expansion of OQCC's programs, events, and member engagement initiatives.
• Ensure programming aligns with the Chamber's strategic priorities and the evolving needs of Ontario's 2SLGBTQI+ business community.
• Oversee program planning, implementation, evaluation, and reporting in collaboration with staff and community partners.
• Identify opportunities to expand OQCC's regional programming and strengthen engagement across Ontario.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Financial Management & Funding Accountability

• Oversee organizational financial performance, budgeting, and resource allocation in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Ensure sound financial management practices and appropriate internal controls.
• Monitor revenue development, funding commitments, and organizational expenditures.
• Oversee the implementation of funded initiatives, ensuring alignment with approved budgets, deliverables, and reporting requirements.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders and the Board of Directors.
• Work collaboratively with administrative and operational staff to maintain effective financial processes and reporting systems.

Organizational Operations & Team Leadership

• Provide oversight of the Chamber's day-to-day operations, ensuring effective systems, processes, and service delivery.
• Manage and support staff & contractors responsible for administration, operations, marketing, communications, revenue development, and program delivery.
• Work collaboratively with the Operations and Administration team to support effective membership management, financial administration, and organizational processes.
• Collaborate with contractors and volunteers to strengthen the Chamber's visibility, communications, and member engagement.
• Support organizational capacity-building, including recruitment, onboarding, and development of additional staff as funding and operational needs allow.
• Ensure organizational resources are used effectively to support strategic priorities.

Advocacy & External Relations

• Serve as a key representative and spokesperson for OQCC at events, meetings, and stakeholder engagements.
• Advocate for initiatives and opportunities that advance the interests of 2SLGBTQI+ businesses and entrepreneurs.
• Build and maintain relationships with government representatives, corporate leaders, community organizations, and business associations.
• Strengthen the Chamber's visibility and influence as a voice for inclusive economic development across Ontario.

Board Relations & Governance

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to support effective governance, strategic decision-making, and organizational accountability.
• Provide regular updates on organizational performance, financial results, membership development, funding commitments, and strategic initiatives.
• Support Board meetings, committee activities, and implementation of Board-approved decisions.
• Maintain clear communication between the Board and operational team.

Qualifications & Experience

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of strategic leadership, operational expertise, relationship-building skills, and a strong commitment to 2SLGBTQI+ economic empowerment.

We are seeking someone who demonstrates:

• Proven experience in nonprofit leadership, association management, business development, or a related field.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational leadership, and financial management skills.
• Experience developing partnerships, securing sponsorships, fundraising, or managing grant-funded initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to grow and engage membership-based or community-focused organizations.
• Experience overseeing staff, contractors, or volunteers and fostering collaborative teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience working with a Board of Directors or similar governance body.
• Strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Knowledge of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, inclusive business practices, and barriers facing equity-deserving entrepreneurs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and digital administration tools. Familiarity with QuickBooks, CRM platforms, and membership management systems is an asset.

Applicants with lived experience within 2SLGBTQI+ communities are strongly encouraged to apply. We recognize that relevant experience can be gained through professional roles, volunteer leadership, community involvement, and other pathways.

Working Conditions & Compensation

• Salary: $70,000 base salary + incentive package based on performance and experience.
• Contract Period: Up to 15 months, with potential for extension contingent on organizational performance, membership growth, and revenue diversification.
• Hours: Standard full time workweek, with flexibility required for evening/weekend events and stakeholder meetings.
• Travel: Business travel within Ontario may be required. Approved expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with OQCC policies.

Our Commitment to Equity & Inclusion

The Ontario Queer Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of diverse backgrounds, identities, experiences, and abilities. We particularly encourage individuals with lived experience within 2SLGBTQI+ communities to apply.

Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment and selection process. Applicants requiring accommodations may contact [email protected].

Application & Selection Process

Interested candidates are invited to complete the online Executive Director Application Form and submit their resume and cover letter.

• Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
• Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
• Those progressing through the selection process may be invited to multiple interviews with the Hiring Committee.
• Reference checks will be conducted prior to extending a formal offer.
• All applicants who participate in the interview process will be informed of the outcome.

For questions regarding the application process or accommodation requests, please contact [email protected].

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON (Toronto District)