Leadership Background Overview:

Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation (CRF) is preparing for a leadership transition as current Executive Director, Jane Kidd-Hantscher, plans to retire in June 2026. To ensure continuity for their donors, partners, and staff, the successful candidate will join CRF as the Senior Operating Officer for a planned multi-month overlap with the outgoing Executive Director. They will onboard while serving in a transitional capacity and in partnership with Jane, the Board, and team. Following this transition period, the incumbent will assume full Executive Director responsibilities. This approach provides a thoughtful runway for knowledge transfer across fundraising, operations, finance/budget planning, major events and the integral relationship with the Rehabilitation Centre for Children, positioning the next leader to step into the role with confidence.

The Organization:

Summit Search Group has been retained by Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation (CRF) on the recruitment of their next Executive Director. The Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation is a vital Manitoba charity with a mission rooted in compassion, inclusion, and empowerment. As the official fundraising entity of the Rehabilitation Centre for Children (RCC), the Foundation plays a pivotal role in ensuring children with disabilities, and their families, have access to the resources and supports they need to thrive. CRF raises funds to improve the lives of children who access services at the RCC and SSCY Centre, extending its impact across Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario, and Nunavut.

By investing in specialized equipment, programs, research, and innovative initiatives, the Foundation ensures children and youth living with disabilities are provided every opportunity to explore their potential and live with as much independence as possible. The organization’s vision is one where all children can realize their abilities, and its work reflects an ongoing commitment to dignity, accessibility, and possibility. CRF is more than a fundraising organization, it is a community-builder, a partner to families, and a trusted advocate for children and youth who live with physical and developmental challenges. With a proud history of impact and a strong base of community support, CRF continues to stand as a cornerstone in shaping brighter futures for children, families, and communities throughout the region.

Executive Director:

The Executive Director of the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation will be an inspiring, resourceful, and compassionate leader responsible for driving the next chapter of the organization’s growth and impact. This individual will oversee the development and implementation of the Foundation’s strategic vision, manage the day-to-day operations, and provide leadership to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. A key aspect of the role will be spearheading innovative fundraising strategies, strengthening donor and partner relationships, and engaging with the broader community to enhance awareness of the Foundation’s mission.

The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors and Board Committees, providing insight, guidance, and support in governance and decision-making, while ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s long-term goals. Beyond fundraising, the successful candidate will nurture a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, creating an environment where staff, volunteers, donors, and partners feel valued and inspired.

They will represent the Foundation with authenticity and passion, acting as both an advocate for children and families and as a strategic leader ensuring financial sustainability and organizational resilience. This is an opportunity for a visionary leader to make a profound difference in the lives of children and youth with disabilities, guiding a trusted and respected organization into a future of continued success and meaningful impact.

Our ideal candidate will be a strategic and compassionate leader with a proven ability to inspire others and build meaningful relationships. You will bring experience in non-profit management, fundraising, and community engagement, paired with strong organizational and financial acumen. A natural communicator and collaborator, you demonstrate creativity and resilience in guiding the Foundation’s mission forward and continuing its success.

Leadership and Strategic Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary ambassador for the Foundation by representing CRF at high-profile speaking engagements, community events, media interviews, presentations, and through written communication with donors, ensuring the organization’s mission and impact are consistently and effectively conveyed.
• Serve as the senior fundraising lead, responsible for cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major and mid-level donors, sponsors, and corporate partners to strengthen and diversify the Foundation’s revenue streams.
• Provide strategic leadership for CRF’s marketing and communications initiatives, including brand management, public relations, and donor communications, to enhance visibility, reputation, and engagement with stakeholders.
• Lead and manage a team of professionals, with responsibility for recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and the design of organizational structures and work plans that foster collaboration, accountability, and a high-performing team culture.
• Oversee the Foundation’s governance process by coordinating board and committee meetings, maintaining accurate records, and cultivating strong, productive relationships with board members, volunteers, and committee participants.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the Rehabilitation Centre for Children’s Clinical Leadership Team, ensuring alignment, mutual support, and coordinated approaches between the Centre and Foundation on shared initiatives and organizational priorities.

Operational and Administrative Responsibilities:

• Direct the Foundation’s financial management activities, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and oversight of procurement for assets and equipment, ensuring the efficient and effective use of resources.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies and administrative processes to support compliance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across the Foundation’s activities.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years’ experience in a leadership role of a not-for-profit organization or foundation. Experience with children, family, or health is considered a strong asset.
• Extensive experience in, fundraising, public relations and communications, finance, administration/office management and volunteer boards required.
• Experience with fundraising programs and donor databases, preferably Raisers Edge, considered a strong asset.
• Understanding and sensitivity of issues related to children living with disabilities and their families.
• Requires the ability to be an outstanding collaborator and multi-task in an ever-changing environment.
• A self-starter who champions ideas and initiatives to continuously enhance CRF’s reputation and impact in our community.

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

Summit Search Group has a strong commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. We strive for continuous development, modeling, inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias throughout our process.