The Organization:

Summit Search Group has been retained by the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation on the recruitment of their newest Executive Director. The Deer Lodge Centre Foundation (DLCF) is the philanthropic arm of Deer Lodge Centre, a healthcare institution with a proud and enduring legacy of serving Veterans, older adults, and individuals living with complex health conditions. Located in Winnipeg, Deer Lodge Centre has been a cornerstone of compassionate care for more than a century, originally established to meet the needs of Canadian Forces members and Veterans returning from service. Over the years, it has evolved into a leading facility that provides specialized care in rehabilitation, chronic illness management, dementia care, bariatrics, and mental health services.

The Foundation exists to ensure that the Deer Lodge Centre continues to fulfill its mission of delivering the highest quality of care possible. Through dedicated fundraising, donor stewardship, and strategic partnerships, DLCF supports the enhancement of programs, services, and facilities that directly impact patients, residents, and their families. Donations to the Foundation fuel innovation and compassionate programming, from advanced medical equipment and therapeutic initiatives to research and community engagement projects.

The Position:

The Executive Director of the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation is a visionary and dynamic leader responsible for driving the Foundation’s mission, stewarding donor relationships, and ensuring sustainable growth to meet the evolving needs of Deer Lodge Centre. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director oversees all aspects of fundraising, donor relations, communications, financial stewardship, and human resource management, while ensuring strong alignment between the Foundation and the Centre it supports.

In this pivotal role, the Executive Director serves as the chief ambassador of the Foundation, cultivating meaningful partnerships with donors, corporations, government agencies, and community groups. The Executive Director will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies, managing donor campaigns, and spearheading major giving and legacy initiatives. Beyond fundraising, the Executive Director ensures transparency and accountability in financial management, maintains compliance with relevant regulations, and upholds the highest ethical standards in philanthropy.

Fundraising & Community Engagement:

• Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive fundraising strategies to achieve revenue targets.
• Lead major gifts, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, donor stewardship, and special events.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with donors, community leaders, corporate partners, and government representatives.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate, enhancing the Foundation’s visibility and reputation.
• Provide leadership in fostering organizational growth by introducing fresh ideas, innovative fundraising approaches, and expanding the Foundation’s community profile.

Strategic Leadership & Governance:

• Provide vision and direction to ensure alignment with Deer Lodge Centre’s mission and goals.
• Work closely with the Board of Directors, preparing reports, updates, and strategic recommendations.
• Ensure policies, procedures, and practices are current, effective, and compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Support and strengthen Board governance through effective reporting, policy support and the recruitment, orientation, and engagement of Board members and volunteers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with all levels of government representatives to support advocacy, visibility, and funding opportunities.

Financial, Human Resources & Operational Management:

• Oversee all financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and investment oversight in collaboration with the Foundation’s accountant.
• Ensure compliance with CRA charitable regulations and financial best practices.
• Lead, mentor, and support Foundation staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing workplace culture.
• Monitor performance and evaluate activities to ensure goals are achieved and operations are efficient.
• Oversee payroll, benefits administration and Human Resources practices to ensure accuracy, compliance, and employee well-being.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years’ experience of progressive senior leadership experience or significant leadership experience in fundraising and non-profit management.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gifts, donor cultivation, planned giving, and event management.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget development, financial reporting, and investment oversight.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with Boards of Directors, staff, volunteers, and diverse community stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proficiency in donor management software (Keela experience considered an asset) and Microsoft Office Suite.

This is an opportunity to shape the future of one of Winnipeg’s most respected healthcare foundations and to make a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans, older adults, individuals living with complex health conditions and families across Manitoba.

For more information, or to submit your resume, please reach out to Cory Henkewich and Matt Erhard at Summit Search Group, Cory.Henkewich@summitsearchgroup.com  matt.erhard@summitsearchgroup.com 

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