Position Description

A TRANSFORMATIVE LEGACY OF HOPE

For over a century, the Yonge Street Mission (YSM) has been at the forefront of transformational change in Toronto, weaving together faith, innovation, and action to create lasting solutions to urban poverty.

As a Christ-centered organization, YSM's mission transcends traditional charity—the organization acts as architects of sustainable change, working collaboratively across communities to dismantle barriers and create pathways to thriving lives. Through an integrated approach of meeting immediate needs, fostering personal growth, building resilient communities, and influencing systemic change, YSM is creating a city where human potential flourishes.

OPPORTUNITY OVERVIEW

The organization seeks an exceptional Vice President, Operations who shares its passion for faith-inspired social innovation and brings strategic acumen to the mission. This role offers the unique opportunity to:

• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to pioneer innovative solutions
• Steward resources and relationships with excellence
• Shape organizational culture that reflects both professional excellence and Christian values
• Partner in building Kingdom impact through practical, transformative action

This pivotal role helps drive YSM's strategic vision to transform lives, build thriving communities, and create lasting positive change in Toronto.  A key member of YSM's Senior Leadership Team, the VP, Operations reports directly to the President & CEO and collaborates with the VPs of Philanthropy, Programs, and Partnerships & Impact.

The position also provides strategic oversight of comprehensive shared services that empowers the fulfillment of YSM's mission, leading an accomplished team across three essential areas: Financial Services (including legal and insurance), Property and Facilities, and Information Technology. Direct reports include: Director of Finance, Director IS&T, and Manager, Property Services.

The Ideal Candidate

We seek a seasoned leader who combines professional excellence with authentic Christian faith and servant leadership. The successful candidate will be:

• A strategic thinker with proven business acumen
• A collaborative leader who builds strong teams and relationships
• An innovative problem-solver who navigates complexity with wisdom
• A mission-focused professional who aligns operations with organizational values
• A humble leader who models Christian service in the workplace

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development

• Partners with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board of Directors to advance YSM's strategic direction across diverse communities and stakeholder groups
• Guides teams in executing shared service strategies aligned with organizational mission
• Facilitates cross-functional collaboration to achieve organizational objectives
• Shapes executive-level reporting and analysis to guide strategic decision-making

Operational Excellence & Innovation

• Develops and implements comprehensive business practices across all shared service functions, ensuring alignment with organizational strategies and biblical foundations
• Oversees the creation and execution of:
• Robust accounting and financial reporting systems.
• Long-range fiscal planning integrated with operational strategies.
• Internal control frameworks and risk management protocols.
• Forward-thinking IT and communications infrastructure.
• Effective property and asset management programs, including new construction. 
• Builds and maintains strategic partnerships with key stakeholders and service providers.

Scope of Impact & Complexity

• Provides comprehensive oversight of integrated business functions requiring expert knowledge of finance, accounting, business development, IT, legal, insurance, and facilities management
• Shapes strategic direction through collaboration with executive leadership and diverse stakeholder groups
• Leads transformative initiatives that advance organizational capabilities
• Makes high-level decisions within broad organizational frameworks

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERTISE

Leadership Competencies

• Executive Presence: Demonstrates ability to lead, equip, and empower senior leaders.
• Strategic Acumen: Develops comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics and opportunities.
• Integrity: Maintains highest standards of personal and professional conduct.
• Decision-Making: Applies sound judgment and analytical thinking to complex challenges.
• Collaborative Leadership: Fosters team-based approaches and effective partnerships.
• Business Insight: Leverages deep understanding of operational and financial drivers.
• Change Management: Successfully navigates organizational transformation.

Advanced Project Management & Financial Modelling Expertise

• Leads complex shared services projects from inception to completion.
• Directs technical, financial and legal due diligence processes.
• Develops financial models for new initiatives.
• Drives cross-functional project planning and execution.

Other Technical Competencies

• Advanced transaction management capabilities.
• Comprehensive understanding of accounting and IT best practices.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships.
• Proficiency with key organizational systems including Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, Planful, Financial Edge, and BambooHR.

Faith-Based Leadership

YSM embraces a rich tapestry of Christian faith traditions, with staff members representing Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and evangelical communities. This denominational diversity strengthens its Christian identity and creates an inclusive environment where all Christians can authentically serve the mission together.

As an integral part of YSM's Christian mission, this role requires:

• Commitment to sign and uphold YSM's Articles of Faith and Doctrine
• Active modeling of Biblical Foundations in professional practice
• Engaged participation in organizational spiritual life, including worship, prayer, study, and community-building activities
• Leadership in fostering an authentic Christian workplace culture

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Compensation and Benefits

• Comprehensive health plan
• Vacation - 5 weeks
• Staff development fund
• Paid professional dues
• Group RRSP
• Financial planning advisory support service
• Company paid cell phone

Workplace Environment

• Office located at: 306 Gerrard Street East, Toronto
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements (3 days in, 2 days out)
• Casual dress/atmosphere
• Free on-site parking

YSM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT

At Yonge Street Mission (YSM) all assistance is given strictly on the basis of need, regardless of colour, culture, religion, economic status, gender, sexual orientation or social condition. We believe that all individuals deserve the opportunity for full and just participation in society. YSM prioritizes diversity and inclusion by creating safe spaces to serve the community with dignity. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination or verbal, physical, emotional abuse or disrespect towards community members, volunteers or staff. Any demonstration of such behaviour is addressed immediately. We hold ourselves accountable to model respect, living by our core organizational values and our deep appreciation for all people groups.