Executive Director, Operations & Governance Affairs
A Defining Leadership Opportunity at the Intersection of Democratic Governance and Operational Excellence
Serve as the Society’s most senior staff leader, partnering with elected leadership to strengthen governance, build organizational capacity, and ensure the people, systems, and accountability needed to support a growing and influential professional union.
The Society of United Professionals is seeking an accomplished executive leader to serve as its most senior staff leader and trusted advisor to elected leadership. Representing more than 10,000 professionals across the energy, legal, municipal, public, and regulatory sectors, the Society is entering an exciting period of organizational growth and evolution.
Reporting to the President and working closely with elected leaders, the Executive Director, Operations & Governance Affairs serves as the critical bridge between governance and operations. The role provides leadership for organizational effectiveness, staff performance, governance support, labour relations, and administrative operations while ensuring the Society remains responsive, accountable, and positioned for long-term success.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a leader who understands how to work within democratic governance structures, build strong accountability cultures, and translate strategic priorities into measurable organizational results.
The successful candidate will be a steady, diplomatic, and values-driven leader who can build trust across a complex, layered organization. They will bring experience in unionized, member-based, public-sector, not-for-profit, regulatory, or similarly nuanced environments, along with strong judgment, clear communication skills, and a practical understanding of governance and labour relations. This is a meaningful opportunity for someone energized by operational improvement, constructive labour-management relationships, and shaping better workplaces for professionals.
- Base Salary Range: Starting at $185,000
- Annual Vacation: 5 weeks
- Comprehensive benefits package including participation in Multi-Sector Pension Plan
About The Society of United Professionals
The Society of United Professionals is a member-driven union representing more than 10,000 professionals across Canada. It represents highly skilled professionals in the energy, legal, municipal, public, private, not-for-profit, and regulatory sectors. Its members help power, regulate, and support communities across Canada. The Society advocates for fair compensation, career development, and positive workplace conditions while maintaining constructive, collaborative relationships with employers.
Headquartered in Toronto, with regional offices in Oshawa, Tiverton, and Saskatoon, the Society supports members across a growing geographic footprint. Looking ahead, the Society is focused on strengthening representation, deepening member engagement, supporting effective governance, and building a stronger public voice for the professionals it represents.
Living & Working in the Greater Toronto Area
Located in the heart of the GTA, this role offers the opportunity to live and work in one of Canada’s most connected and economically significant regions. The GTA is home to a broad network of employers, labour organizations, public institutions, and community partners, creating an environment where experienced leaders can contribute to meaningful organizational and workplace outcomes. The region is recognized for its diversity, innovation, and economic strength.
The GTA’s appeal extends well beyond the workplace. From its arts, culture, and entertainment to its green spaces, waterfront, and diverse communities, the region offers a wide range of options for different lifestyles and interests. Whether enjoying the amenities of downtown Toronto, exploring surrounding communities, or accessing destinations across Ontario and beyond, the GTA offers a strong quality of life alongside significant professional opportunity. Learn more about living and working in the GTA through these links:
How To Apply
We look forward to receiving your application and learning more about how your qualifications and experiences align with those for this role. At Ahria Consulting, every application is carefully reviewed by our dedicated recruiting team. We prioritize a personalized approach, ensuring each candidate receives thorough consideration. Rest assured, we aim to acknowledge receipt of all applications and provide timely updates throughout the selection process.
Please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected] “Executive Director, Operations and Governance Affairs” in the subject line.
Accommodations & Use of AI
Ahria Consulting is committed to providing accessible recruitment practices and complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We will provide suitable accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process. If you are contacted for an interview and require accommodation to participate, please make your needs known at that time.
For accommodation requests, please contact [email protected].
Ahria’s recruitment processes are human‑led. We may use AI‑assisted platform features to support candidate sourcing; however, all screening, interview, and hiring decisions are made by people using informed professional judgment. We are committed to the responsible use of technology and to reviewing our practices to ensure ethical and compliant recruitment.
Questions?
If you have additional questions about this role, please contact:
Kelly Gillis, Vice President & COO
[email protected]
Ahria Consulting
201-235 North Centre Road
London, ON N5X 4E7