President

Lead and Support Ontario’s Snow Resort Industry

The Ontario Snow Resorts Association (OSRA) is seeking an experienced, relationship-focused leader to serve as its next President.

OSRA represents alpine ski resorts, cross-country ski areas, tubing operations and industry partners throughout Ontario. The Association advocates on behalf of its members, provides practical industry support, builds partnerships, delivers education and events, and serves as a collective voice for Ontario’s snow resort industry.

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Directors, the President is responsible for the overall leadership, management and day-to-day operation of the Association.

This is a hands-on executive role within a lean organization. The President works closely with the Board of Directors and is supported by one Administrative Assistant. The successful candidate must be equally comfortable developing government advocacy strategies, advising a member on an industry issue, managing the Association’s budget, preparing Board materials and delivering seminars, annual conferences and trade shows.

The Opportunity

The President will serve as OSRA’s primary representative, spokesperson and trusted advisor. The role requires a leader who can build strong relationships across a diverse membership while identifying opportunities to strengthen the Association and advance the interests of Ontario’s snow industry.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the day-to-day operation and administration of the Association
• Implementing the strategic direction established by the Board of Directors
• Supporting Board governance, meetings, committees and annual planning
• Developing and managing the Association’s annual budget
• Building relationships with member resorts and providing practical advice and support while respecting professional and confidential requirements
• Visiting member resorts throughout Ontario to understand their priorities and operating challenges
• Advocating with municipal, provincial and federal governments
• Monitoring legislation, public policy and emerging issues affecting the industry
• Representing OSRA on industry committees, advisory groups and partner organizations
• Leading the planning and delivery of the annual conference, trade show, educational sessions and member events
• Developing sponsorships, partnerships, grants and other sources of non-dues revenue
• Managing member, public, government and media communications
• Providing leadership and direction to the Administrative Assistant
• Ensuring Association business is conducted in accordance with OSRA’s Bylaws, policies and Board direction
  

Who We Are Looking For

The successful candidate will be a credible and approachable leader who combines strategic thinking with the willingness to be personally involved in the work.

They will bring:

• Eight to ten years of progressive leadership experience
• Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills
• Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement and relationship building
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills
• Strong organizational, project management and problem-solving abilities
• Sound judgement and the ability to manage sensitive or complex issues
• The ability to work independently and manage competing priorities
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License and the ability to travel regularly throughout Ontario

Knowledge of the ski, snowboard or outdoor recreation industry and experience in government relations, advocacy or conference management would be considered strong assets. Experience in tourism, recreation, hospitality, sport, not-for-profit or association management is preferred.

What Success Looks Like

The successful President will:

• Build trusted relationships with OSRA members
• Strengthen the value and relevance of Association services
• Provide informed and responsive support to member resorts
• Advance the industry’s priorities with government and key stakeholders
• Deliver well-managed conferences, events and educational programs
• Maintain strong financial stewardship
• Identify new partnerships and revenue opportunities
• Support an effective and engaged Board of Directors
• Represent OSRA and Ontario’s snow resort industry with professionalism and credibility

Compensation and Location

• The position is based at OSRA’s head office in Collingwood, Ontario.
• The starting salary is $125,000 per year, together with the benefits and other terms established by the Board of Directors.
• Regular travel throughout Ontario and occasional evening and weekend work will be required.