Executive Director (30 hours/week)

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Canadian Association of Road Safety Professionals

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive of the Canadian Association of Road Safety Professionals (CARSP), overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization and ensuring the successful implementation of strategic initiatives. This position is responsible for guiding the association’s growth, managing relationships with stakeholders, ensuring financial sustainability, and leading a dedicated team. The ED will work closely with the Board of Directors, volunteers, staff, and external partners to advance CARSP’s mission to improve road safety across Canada.

The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership, communication, and financial management skills, as well as a passion for road safety advocacy. Experience in the non-profit sector, particularly within professional associations, is preferred.

Canadian Association of Road Safety Professionals

The Canadian Association of Road Safety Professionals (CARSP) is a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing road safety knowledge and practices across Canada. It brings together professionals from diverse sectors—including engineering, public health, law enforcement, education, research, and government—to share expertise and promote evidence-based strategies that reduce road-related injuries and fatalities. Through conferences, webinars, publications, and collaboration with national and international partners, CARSP fosters the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices. The association also supports emerging professionals, ensuring that road safety initiatives in Canada are informed by research, collaboration, and a shared commitment to saving lives.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. CARSP Conference Planning:
  • Oversee the general planning and execution of the CARSP Annual Conference in collaboration with the Conference Chair and other key stakeholders.
  • Serve as the Chair of the Scientific Program Committee, ensuring the selection and coordination of high-quality content for the conference program.
  • Oversee the logistics, speaker recruitment, sponsorships, and other activities to ensure the success of the conference as a key event for the association and the road safety community.
  1. Public Relations:
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, academic institutions, and the media.
  • Represent CARSP during new initiative launches, ensuring effective communication of the association’s goals and achievements.
  • Serve as the public face of CARSP at conferences, workshops, and other external functions, promoting the association’s mission and initiatives.
  • Respond to media inquiries, participate in public awareness campaigns, and ensure CARSP is viewed as a thought leader in the road safety field.
  1. Marketing & Membership Development:
  • Provide strategic guidance on membership growth, retention, and engagement strategies.
  • Identify new opportunities for revenue generation through membership programs, including the expansion of Corporate Membership offerings.
  • Represent CARSP at events and conferences, encouraging attendees to join the association.
  • Write and/or assist in the development of CARSP’s communication materials, including news releases, promotional content, and newsletters.
  1. Financial Management & Sustainability:
  • Oversee CARSP’s financial operations, working closely with the Treasurer to ensure sound financial management and reporting.
  • Develop and implement strategies for ensuring the financial sustainability of CARSP, including identifying new sources of income.
  • Handle day-to-day banking tasks, such as depositing cheques, processing invoices, and tracking financial transactions related to CARSP activities.
  • Manage the association’s PayPal account, ensuring timely transfers and proper documentation of transactions.
  • Prepare financial reports, including quarterly statements, budgets, and other financial documents for the Board of Directors.
  • Lead fundraising efforts, including seeking sponsorships, managing membership payments, and identifying new funding opportunities for CARSP activities.
  • Prepare and submit proposals for funding to support CARSP’s projects and initiatives.
  1. Liaison Between Stakeholders:
  • Promote CARSP to potential partners, including international organizations such as the Global Alliance of Road Safety NGOs, and foster strong working relationships with like-minded stakeholders.
  • Identify and create new partnerships that enhance CARSP’s capacity to achieve its goals.
  • Develop and communicate regular updates for partners, ensuring transparency and engagement in CARSP’s initiatives.
  1. Strategic Planning Goals and Outcomes:
  • Co-lead the development and execution of CARSP’s strategic plan in collaboration with the Vice President and Board of Directors.
  • Monitor and assess the progress of the association’s annual work plan, in close cooperation with the Executive Committee (EC) and sub-committees.
  • Ensure alignment between CARSP’s strategic goals and the programs, initiatives, and financial resources required for success.
  1. Human Resources Management:
  • Lead efforts to recruit, engage, and retain volunteers who support CARSP’s mission.
  • Oversee the work of the Executive Administrator and ensure efficient operational support for the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
  • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, encouraging staff and volunteers to contribute to the association’s success.
  1. Technology Management:
  • Ensure that CARSP’s technology infrastructure supports the association’s growth, including overseeing the website and communication platforms.
  • Recommend and implement technological improvements that enhance operational efficiency, member engagement, and the delivery of services.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Non-Profit Management, Road Safety, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in non-profit leadership or management, preferably within a professional association or road safety-focused organization.
  • Strong experience in financial management, including budgeting, reporting, and oversight of financial transactions.
  • Demonstrated experience in marketing, membership growth, and fundraising.
  • Proven track record of successfully managing stakeholder relationships and building partnerships.
  • Experience in conference planning and event management is highly desirable.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and represent CARSP professionally.
  • Proven ability to think strategically and operationalize plans effectively.
  • Expertise in financial oversight, with the ability to manage budgets and ensure fiscal responsibility.
  • Knowledge of road safety issues, public health, and policy advocacy is preferred.
  • Proficiency in using association management software, CRM tools, and basic office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace).
  • Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic environment, while managing multiple priorities.

Other Qualifications:

  • Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with volunteers, staff, and external partners.
  • Ability to travel, as needed, for conferences, meetings, and other events.
  • High ethical standards and a commitment to CARSP’s mission of improving road safety.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and at least two professional references to info@carsp.ca by November 28th. The cover letter should specifically address the candidate’s qualifications for the Executive Director role at CARSP.

Position is part-time (30 hours per week).  Salary is  commensurate on experience/qualifications and is comparable to that in smaller non-profit organizations.  Position start date January 2026.  CARSP is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.