Summary
This is a hands-on leadership role. In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives, the Operations Manager will actively support front-line programs, assist staff during busy periods, participate in community events, and help ensure the organization continues to provide exceptional service to both clients and their pets.
Description
Position Summary
The Operations Manager is responsible for the overall operational management of Parachutes for Pets. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position provides leadership across organizational operations, staff supervision, human resources, program support, financial oversight, and organizational systems.
This is a hands-on leadership role. In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives, the Operations Manager will actively support front-line programs, assist staff during busy periods, participate in community events, and help ensure the organization continues to provide exceptional service to both clients and their pets.
This position is primarily based in Calgary and will require occasional travel to the organization's Edmonton location, community events, partner organizations, and other operational sites.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Oversee the daily operations of the organization across multiple programs and locations.
- Develop, implement, and improve operational policies, procedures, and workflows.
- Ensure efficient organizational systems that support sustainable growth.
- Monitor organizational performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Ensure compliance with organizational policies and applicable legislation.
Team Leadership
- Supervise, mentor, and support staff and volunteers.
- Lead recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management.
- Foster a collaborative, positive, and inclusive workplace culture.
- Provide guidance and support in resolving operational challenges and staff concerns.
Financial & Administrative Oversight
- Assist with organizational budgeting and financial planning.
- Monitor operational expenditures and support responsible resource management.
- Maintain accurate organizational records and documentation.
- Support grant reporting and funding requirements where applicable.
Program Operations
- Support the successful delivery of all organizational programs and services.
- Collaborate with program staff to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery.
- Monitor program operations and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Assist with developing and implementing new programs and initiatives.
Front-Line Support
- Assist with client intakes and client services as operational needs require.
- Assist with volunteer groups, community events, fundraising initiatives, and outreach activities.
Strategic Planning
- Support organizational planning and long-term growth initiatives.
- Work closely with the Executive Director to implement strategic priorities.
- Develop systems and processes that improve organizational effectiveness.
Community & Partnership Development
- Build and maintain positive relationships with community partners, municipalities, funders, donors, and stakeholders.
- Represent Parachutes for Pets professionally within the community when required.
Qualifications
Required
- Minimum 3 years of progressive leadership or operations management experience, preferably within the nonprofit sector.
- Minimum 3 years of experience supervising staff and leading teams.
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Human Resources, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Valid Class 5 driver's licence and reliable transportation.
- Demonstrated experience managing organizational operations, budgets, and administrative systems.
- Strong knowledge of human resources practices and employment legislation.
- Experience developing and implementing organizational policies and procedures.
- Excellent organizational, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with moving pet food, donations, and event supplies.
- Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as operational needs require.
- Willingness and ability to travel between organizational locations and attend meetings, events, and community initiatives as required.
Preferred
- Experience working within the nonprofit, animal welfare, or social services sector.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations.
- Experience with grant-funded programming.
- Project management experience.
- Knowledge of nonprofit governance and board operations.
Who You Are
The ideal candidate is:
- An experienced and confident leader.
- Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
- Compassionate, approachable, and committed to serving the community.
- Comfortable making decisions and supporting staff in a fast-paced environment.
- Passionate about improving the lives of both people and their pets.
- Comfortable working in an environment with dogs, cats, and other companion animals.
- Willing to step in wherever needed to support the organization's mission and day-to-day operations.
