Job Opportunity - Executive Director

Executive Director Position
After Trauma Empowerment Network
Shubenacadie NS

Position Summary
After Trauma Empowerment Network (ATEN) is seeking a compassionate, strategic, and trauma-informed Executive Director to lead our organization in providing free counselling, peer support, and community-based services for individuals who have experienced trauma. The Executive Director will oversee organizational operations, staff leadership, fundraising, financial sustainability, and community engagement while ensuring services remain accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of those affected by trauma.

This role requires an experienced nonprofit leader who understands trauma-informed practice, values peer support models, and has experience managing or supporting social enterprise operations, including a thrift shop business.

About Us
The After Trauma Empowerment Network (ATEN) is a community based non-profit organization that works to empower individuals, families and communities affected by trauma to live an empowered life to reach their fullest potential. Our Mission is to empower and improve the quality of life of individuals, families and communities affected by trauma by providing free trauma-informed counselling, peer support, education and resources. We also have a thrift store, Violet Rose Gift & Thrift Shop, where all proceeds go toward the operational expenses of the organization.

Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership

• Work collaboratively with the Co-Director to provide strategic leadership aligned with the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
• Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to implement strategic goals and organizational priorities.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and trauma-informed workplace culture.
• Ensure policies, procedures, and programming reflect best practices in trauma-informed care and peer support.

Program Oversight

• Oversee counselling, peer support, and community programming.
• Ensure services are accessible, ethical, culturally responsive, and survivor-centered.
• Support staff and volunteers through reflective supervision and professional development.
• Monitor program outcomes and support evaluation and reporting processes.

Financial & Operational Management

• Develop and manage organizational budgets and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with funding agreements, legal obligations, and nonprofit governance standards.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, facilities, and administrative systems.
• Identify opportunities for organizational growth and sustainability.

Community Relations

• Lead grant development, donor relations, and community partnerships.
• Represent the organization publicly and build relationships with funders, service providers, and community stakeholders.
• Promote awareness of trauma-informed services and the organization’s mission.

Thrift Shop Oversight

• Provide oversight and strategic direction for the organization’s thrift shop operations.
• Support retail staff and volunteers in maintaining efficient and welcoming operations.
• Monitor revenue generation, inventory systems, and customer service standards

Qualifications
Required

• Degree in social work, counselling, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit organization.
• Demonstrated understanding of trauma-informed practice, peer support, and survivor-centered services.
• Experience supervising multidisciplinary teams, staff, and volunteers.
• Strong financial management and budgeting experience.
• Experience in fundraising, grant writing, and donor engagement.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working with or overseeing a thrift shop, social enterprise, or retail fundraising operation.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance and Board relations.

 
Preferred

• Experience working within mental health, trauma recovery, domestic violence, sexual violence, or community support sectors.
• Training and experience in trauma-informed leadership, restorative practices, or equity-based approaches.

Core Competencies

• Compassionate and collaborative leadership
• Trauma-informed decision-making
• Emotional intelligence and resilience
• Strategic planning and problem-solving
• Financial stewardship
• Community engagement and advocacy
• Equity, diversity, and inclusion awareness

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $50/hr at 35 hours week
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development opportunities
• EAP support

To Apply
Please submit:

• Cover letter
• Resume/CV
• Three professional references

Applications can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to PO Box 318, Shubenacadie NS, B0N 2H0.
Application deadline: May 29 or until filled.
We encourage applications from individuals with diverse lived experiences and backgrounds, including those from equity-deserving communities. Accommodations are available throughout the hiring process upon request.