Lead the wave of innovation as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Advantage St. John’s: Harnessing potential for Economic Growth in Canada’s historic coastal hub. Join us on the edge of adventure and propel our global impact in renewable energy, ocean technology, and economic expansion.

Advantage St. John’s will be the arms-length, not for profit, regional economic development agency, serving the municipalities of City of St. John’s and Towns of Paradise and Conception Bay South. The agency will be primarily externally focused in its efforts and be entrusted to develop investment and business development initiatives, programs, projects, and associated marketing plans. These activities will be developed in alignment with a strategic plan and the advancement of the work of the agency.

Reporting to the Advantage St. John’s Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for establishing the agency as a significant economic development player in the region. They will hold a pivotal role within the organization, responsible for a comprehensive array of tasks and initiatives aimed at the successful establishment and sustainable growth of Advantage St. John’s. The CEO’s responsibilities encompass establishing the organization, developing a robust strategic plan for economic growth, overseeing daily operations, managing finances and human resources, building strategic partnerships, ensuring alignment with the strategic plan, collecting and reporting data, managing business ventures and contracts, effectively communicating Advantage St. John’s roles and responsibilities, providing resource allocation recommendations, pursuing professional development, and serving as an enthusiastic champion in the region, all of which are essential to Advantage St. John’s mission of creating long-term economic opportunities and value-added employment.

As the ideal candidate for this role, you will have a Bachelor’s degree in a field closely related to economic development or business, coupled with an impressive track record of relevant experience. You should demonstrate a strong emphasis on partnership development within the realms of public, private, and educational sectors. Furthermore, you should exhibit a comprehensive understanding of economic development policy, programs, local value propositions, and the various economic drivers and opportunities within the community. Proven experience and familiarity with operating in a not-for-profit environment and reporting to a Board of Directors is essential. You should also showcase your effective staff management skills, proficiency in project management, and a successful history of crafting and executing strategic plans and associated operational plans. Demonstrated ability in preparing funding proposals and expertise in business financial planning and management is expected. Lastly, you should excel in public communications and public speaking to effectively convey Advantage St. John’s mission and goals.

Advantage St. John’s embraces a culture of belonging in the workplace. No matter who you are, where you’re from, how you think, what you believe in, or who you love, your application is welcome. Diversity is appreciated and there is understanding that we all come from different backgrounds and different walks of life, bringing in unique perspectives and experiences. Applications from 2SLGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC), women, newcomers to Canada, and people with disabilities are encouraged. If you require any accommodation in the application and interview process, please let us know.

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact Ryan Thistle at rthistle@venor.ca, or Beverley Evans at bevans@venor.ca.