Job Description

Leadership growth is something we celebrate at YWCA Calgary. An internal promotion into the CEO role has created two Vice President opportunities for leaders who want to help drive meaningful change.

The Vice President, Advancement and Engagement is an influential executive leader who advances YWCA Calgary’s presence, partnerships and impact through strategic engagement across the community, sector and public landscape. This leader brings deep expertise in external relations, advocacy, communications and philanthropic partnership development, and champions YWCA Calgary’s mission by building strong, meaningful relationships that advance organizational priorities, strengthen financial sustainability and enhance visibility and influence.

A connector and advocate at heart, the Vice President represents YWCA Calgary in the community, positioning the organization as a leader in intersectional feminism, social justice and community well‑being. Working closely with the CEO, CFO and Board of Directors, they support strategic direction, funding diversification and long‑term sustainability through partnerships, social enterprise opportunities and external engagement strategies.

The Vice President leads a high‑performing team responsible for external relations, government and stakeholder engagement, communications, marketing and philanthropic partnerships. They foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and accountability, ensuring YWCA Calgary’s voice is strong, credible and aligned with organizational values.

This position typically works 37.5 hours per week and follows a hybrid work arrangement, with four days in the office and one day remote.

WHAT WE OFFER

Truly rewarding work; contribute to lasting, positive change for individuals and our community
Flexible schedules and a hybrid work arrangement to help our employees manage work and life
A supportive team environment and opportunities for professional development
Comprehensive benefits
Onsite fitness and childcare facilities

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Strategic External Leadership & Organizational Positioning

Partner with the CEO, Executive Team and Board to advance YWCA Calgary’s strategic direction through external engagement and influence
Position YWCA Calgary as a sector leader in community in safety, equity and community well-being
Lead the development and execution of external engagement strategies that strengthen visibility, credibility and impact
Represent YWCA Calgary at municipal, provincial and national levels, including government consultations, sector tables and public forums
Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and Board on external risks, opportunities and emerging issues

Philanthropic Partnerships, Fund Development & Revenue Diversification

Strengthen relationships with major donors, corporate partners, foundations and philanthropic stakeholders
Support fundraising and capital campaign initiatives through strategic relationship building and external representation
Partner with the Director of Philanthropy & Development to align external engagement with fundraising strategies
Identify opportunities for social enterprise, diversified revenue streams and innovative funding models
Represent YWCA Calgary in conversations with funders and partners to advance long‑term financial sustainability

Communications, Brand & Public Engagement

Oversee strategic communications, marketing and public relations to ensure consistent and compelling messaging
Serve as a spokesperson for YWCA Calgary in media, public events and sector forums
Lead crisis communications and reputation management in collaboration with the CEO
Strengthen brand awareness and public understanding of YWCA Calgary’s mission and impact

External Partnerships & Community Engagement

Build and steward strategic partnerships with community agencies, coalitions, networks and private sector organizations
Represent YWCA Calgary at community events, conferences and public speaking engagements
Strengthen collaborative opportunities that expand organizational reach, influence and impact
Ensure community voice and lived experience inform external engagement strategies

Team Leadership & Organizational Culture

Lead, mentor and inspire a high‑performing team across external relations, communications and advancement functions
Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and accountability
Support recruitment, onboarding and professional development within the portfolio
Promote equity, diversity, inclusion and trauma‑informed practice across leadership and engagement activities
Ensure alignment between internal and external messaging, values and strategic priorities

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (communications, public policy, business, social sciences or similar); Master’s degree considered an asset
10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in external relations, government relations, advocacy, communications, fund development or public affairs
Proven ability to build and steward high level relationships with government, funders, donors, sector leaders and community partners
Demonstrated success leading funding and champion strategies through senior-level relationship building, influence and long-term partnership development

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

Exceptional communication, public speaking and media relations skills, with experience serving as an organizational spokesperson
Strong strategic thinking and political acuity, with the ability to navigate complex external landscapes and advise senior leadership
Experience leading high performing teams, fostering collaboration, innovation and accountability
Understanding of fund development principles and experience supporting donor, corporate or philanthropic relationships
Deep commitment to intersectional feminism, equity, diversity, inclusion and trauma informed practice

If you want to change lives, we want to hear from you.
Deadline: until a suitable candidate is found
Apply today by submitting your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations.
Check out our website for more information about YW Calgary: www.ywcalgary.ca

YW Calgary is committed to providing an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace where all employees, volunteers and clients feel valued and respected, whatever their race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, ancestry, or place of origin.

YWCA Calgary

Open Positions

Vice President, Advancement and Engagement