• Make a lasting impact by leading strategic initiatives and advancing community-based programs that empower urban Indigenous lives
• Become a key leader in a culturally rooted organization that values collaboration, integrity, and community wellness
• Enjoy a competitive annual salary range of $80,000 to $92,000 along with a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment

About The Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre

The Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre is a trusted, culturally rooted organization dedicated to supporting urban Indigenous individuals and families. As part of the national Friendship Centre Movement, we deliver holistic, community-based programs that reflect the unique needs of our region. These include early childhood development, mental health support, housing, justice, employment services, and language revitalization. Guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings, our team promotes self-reliance, cultural identity, and overall well-being. We collaborate with partners such as the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres, the Métis Nation of Ontario, and the Public Health Agency of Canada to provide meaningful, wraparound support. Whether you are working directly with community members or behind the scenes, being part of our team means helping to shape a strong and inclusive future rooted in Indigenous knowledge and values. This is a place where your work has purpose and impact every day.

About the Opportunity

The Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre is looking for a full-time Executive Director based in Peterborough, Ontario, with responsibilities across both our Cameron Street and Ford Street locations.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, you will play a pivotal role in providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and culturally grounded guidance to advance the Centre’s mission in service of urban Indigenous communities.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for managing all aspects of the Centre’s operations, programs, and partnerships while fostering a supportive, inclusive, and community-connected work environment.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Leading a growing management team and overseeing all programs, operations, and administrative functions
• Maintaining a visible leadership presence across both Centre sites to support staff, culture, and community engagement
• Guiding strategic planning, performance measurement, and the development of policies aligned with the Centre’s mission
• Overseeing financial management and compliance, including multi-source budgeting and reporting
• Building and maintaining relationships with community members, funding agencies, and external partners
• Supporting staff wellness, leadership development, and a positive workplace culture rooted in Indigenous values
• Participating in cultural programming, local events, and provincial-level collaboration through the OFIFC network
• Representing the Centre in public forums and advocating for the needs of the community

To read the full position description, please click here.

About You

To qualify, you will need a post-secondary degree or diploma in Business Administration, Indigenous Studies, or a related field, with at least 3–4 years of management experience in non-profit or Indigenous-led organizations.  A combination of formal education and extensive relevant experience will be considered.

The following are required:

• A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Willingness and ability to travel across southeastern and central Ontario as needed
• Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends
• Ability to undergo a criminal record and vulnerable sector check

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Demonstrated understanding of Indigenous cultures, teachings, and protocols, with strong community connection or affiliation
• Proven leadership experience in managing growing teams, multiple programs, and complex operational needs
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, funding compliance, and contract oversight
• Effective relationship-building and communication skills with staff, community, funders, and partner agencies
• Experience developing organizational policy and leading strategic initiatives
• Ability to foster inclusive, respectful, and culturally rooted work environments
• Familiarity with Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) or similar networks
• Strong understanding of not-for-profit governance and reporting structures

As our ideal candidate, you will bring a grounded, relational approach to leadership that fosters a positive, stable environment for staff. You lead with humility and integrity, listening actively, building trust through consistency, and empowering others by recognizing their contributions and inviting their voices into decision-making. Deeply committed to community well-being, you model cultural safety and connection, showing up with presence across both sites and embodying the Indigenous values and protocols that guide your leadership.

This is a meaningful opportunity to carry forward a legacy of cultural strength, staff development, and community service. We are looking for someone who leads by example, builds on what is already working, and earns the trust of staff and community by being open, collaborative, and responsive. This next chapter at the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre will be shaped by a leader who carries both vision and care.

Note: Preference will be given to applicants who have First Nations or Indigenous ancestry.

About the Benefits

In return for your dedication and leadership, you will receive a competitive annual salary of $80,000 to $92,000, negotiable depending on your experience, alongside a comprehensive package of benefits, including:

• Comprehensive health coverage, including a generous $3000 health spending account
• 3 weeks of vacation, plus 2 additional paid weeks during the December holiday season
• 15 personal and sick days per year
• Travel reimbursement for work needs
• Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate
• Meaningful involvement in traditional ceremonies, seasonal feasts, youth and family gatherings, cooking workshops, and community-wide events like the Summer Solstice and Indigenous Fringe Festival
• Join a warm, community-oriented workplace where your leadership will make a daily impact

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, uplift community, and carry forward a strong legacy, apply today!