JOB POSTING: Executive Director
Surfrider Foundation Canada
Location: The position is located in Victoria, BC, Canada. Remote options may be considered and position includes travel.
Reports to: Board of Directors
Position Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary Range: $95,000-$115,000 CAD
About Surfrider Foundation Canada
Surfrider Foundation Canada (SFC) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of Canada’s oceans, waves, and coastlines—for all people. As part of the global Surfrider Foundation network, SFC supports and empowers volunteer-led chapters and clubs across Canada through community action, advocacy, education, and science-based initiatives.
SFC officially became an independent international affiliate of the global Surfrider Foundation (founded in 1984) in the spring of 2022. Currently supporting five active chapters in Canada and five clubs, Surfrider Foundation Canada is poised for thoughtful growth, with opportunities to expand its reach and impact nationally.
The Opportunity
Surfrider Foundation Canada is seeking a passionate, strategic, and collaborative Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization into the future.
The Executive Director is the organization’s senior leader, responsible for overall management, strategic direction, and organizational sustainability. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED provides visionary leadership across programs, operations, fundraising, partnerships, and team development, while serving as Surfrider Canada’s principal representative and spokesperson.
This is an exciting opportunity for a values-driven leader to build on Surfrider Canada’s strong foundation, work with a dedicated staff and volunteer network, and advance the protection of Canada’s oceans and coastlines at a national scale.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership & Strategy
Lead the implementation and evolution of Surfrider Foundation Canada’s strategic plan.
Develop annual work plans aligned with board-approved priorities.
Ensure programs and campaigns effectively advance Surfrider’s mission.
Strengthen Surfrider Canada’s national presence and relationships with partners, funders, and communities.
Board Relations & Governance
Work closely with the Board of Directors to support good governance and strategic decision-making.
Provide timely, accurate reporting to enable informed board oversight.
Support board and committee meetings and foster strong board engagement.
Financial Sustainability & Fundraising
Ensure the financial health and long-term sustainability of the organization.
Lead fundraising efforts, including individual giving, grants, and institutional funding.
Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal management.
Steward donors and maintain strong funder relationships.
Oversee donor systems (CRM) and recurring giving programs.
Operations & Team Leadership
Lead, support, and grow a high-performing staff team.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven organizational culture.
Oversee effective administration and operational systems.
Recruit, train, and support staff and volunteers across the national chapter network.
Review and approve contracts and organizational agreements.
Communications & Representation
Serve as Surfrider Canada’s primary spokesperson with media, partners, and the public.
Oversee marketing and communications in collaboration with staff and the Board.
Strengthen Surfrider Canada’s public profile and storytelling around impact.
Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (JEDI)
Champion justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion across organizational practices and programs.
Track progress and incorporate JEDI milestones into organizational reporting.
Demonstrate commitment to Indigenous rights and reconciliation processes.
Skills & Experience
The successful candidate will bring many (though not necessarily all) of the following:
Graduate degree in a relevant field (e.g., environmental or social sciences, law, conservation, public policy) or commensurate experience.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, including grants and donor development.
5+ years of senior nonprofit leadership or equivalent management experience including managing senior staff.
Strong knowledge of Canada’s environmental, geographic, and cultural context.
Experience working effectively with a Board of Directors.
Financial acumen, including budgeting, reporting, and fiscal oversight.
Media and public communications experience.
Knowledge of the Canadian charitable and regulatory environment.
Strong strategic thinking, organizational, and people leadership skills.
Proven ability to build partnerships and engage diverse stakeholders.
Commitment to Indigenous reconciliation and JEDI principles.
Excellent communication skills; collaborative, and values-driven leadership style.
Why Join Surfrider Foundation Canada?
Opportunity to lead a respected environmental organization with a powerful grassroots network.
Meaningful work protecting oceans, waves, and coastlines.
Supportive Board and passionate staff and volunteers.
Chance to shape the future growth and national impact of Surfrider Canada.
How to Apply
Please submit:
A cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience
Your résumé
Applications should be sent to: jobs@surfrider.ca
Applications will be accepted until the end of the day on January 22, 2026.
Surfrider Foundation Canada is committed to equity and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, people of colour, women, LGBTQ2S+ individuals, and persons with disabilities.
