Job Description

We are seeking an exceptional candidate for the position of Director, Youth Services, to oversee PLEA programs delivering specialized care to children and youth.

The Director, Youth Services, is responsible for ensuring the programs within the incumbent\xe2\x80\x99s portfolio are successfully delivered by enhancing the lives of clients we serve and add value to the agency, through effective planning/oversight, the development and pursuit of strategic objectives, program reporting, the coaching and mentorship of direct reports, and the innovative use of available resources.

The clients served within this program portfolio are children/youth who may present with behavioural and emotional disorders, moderate mental health, development or medical issues, and may be involved with youth justice, medical services or other community services. The programs operate on a caregiver and/or licensed care model and are designed especially for those who have had limited success in the foster care system.

Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, this role will work collaboratively with other members of the Directors\xe2\x80\x99 team.

Who we are:

PLEA is an accredited, not-for-profit, charitable community services agency that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver high quality, innovative services to children, youth, adults, and families facing significant challenges in their lives.

PLEA is an ally in reconciliation. The organization is committed to providing culturally safe programs and continuing to work towards breaking down the barriers that cause harm to Indigenous people and communities.

What you will do in this role: * Program Planning and Oversight: Plan, oversee and evaluate the program(s)\xe2\x80\x99s operations and service delivery through a constant quality improvement lens. Ensure program needs are met and that operations comply with internal and external requirements (e.g., agency policies, the Collective Agreement, contracts, licensing, accreditation, and legislation). Assess and address where program improvements are needed.

• Workforce Planning: In conjunction with the Executive Leadership team, determine staffing requirements for effective program delivery. Identify gaps in staffing and develop plans to address issues (e.g., succession plans and business readiness).
• Team Performance: Hire and/or develop employees to create a high performing team, equipped to lead front-line workers in a unionized environment effectively. Establish and reinforce the agency\xe2\x80\x99s learning culture. Hold direct reports accountable to the performance standards set. Manage individual and team performance, taking corrective action as required, up to and including discharge.
• Strategic Development: Develop action plans for the program(s), in accordance with the agency\xe2\x80\x99s strategic objectives. Formulate effective and progressive strategies to meet current and future program needs. Anticipate change, and design/implement strategies to increase the agency\xe2\x80\x99s business readiness (i.e., its ability to adapt and meet future business needs). Make evidence-based decisions for the program(s) that further the agency\xe2\x80\x99s mission and values.
• Research and Reporting: Prepare and present presentation-ready reports/communications for internal and external distribution. Undertake research, writing, and editing materials, assess and develop project proposals, summaries, and plans.
• Policy and Practice Development: Lead and oversee the program\xe2\x80\x99s submissions for accreditation applications and ensure the program\xe2\x80\x99s practices comply with the standards set. Develop effective policies and procedures that comply with all requirements and support program/agency goals.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Remain up to date on the trends and knowledge related to the program(s). Provide direction, advice and guidance to the CEO and other leaders on program/service issues arising within the region, program area or with implications across the agency. Take a leadership role within the Directors\xe2\x80\x99 group; use subject-matter expertise to guide individual and group decision making.
• Financial Acumen and Negotiations: Collaborate with the CEO and CFO to ensure program operations meet financial targets. Participate in the development of annual budgets and works with the CEO to secure funding. Ensure prepared budgets align with available resources and the strategic plan. Prepare funding proposals and bids for the procurement of funds. Negotiate contracts related to the program and/or agency operations. Participate in fundraising efforts. Participate in the development of bargaining proposals and essential services plans. Approve expenditures as per agency policy and ensure the program(s) exercise fiscal management.
• Relationship Building: Foster collaborative relationships within and outside of the agency. Participate in agency profile raising/public events, including the recruitment of caregivers. Act as liaison to funders, referring authorities and counterparts in government. Represent the agency at external events, such as networking events and conferences. Attend events and represent the agency with various associations.
• Mitigating Risk: Take a proactive approach in identifying and resolving issues before they escalate. Manage crises successfully and monitor the effectiveness of implemented solutions. Prepare program reports, funding proposals and other formal documents, ensuring they are complete, comprehensive and accurate.
• Committee Work: Lead various committee(s) to further the completion of the agency\xe2\x80\x99s strategic plan. Advise leadership on the committee\xe2\x80\x99s plans, activities and findings. Ensure the committee\xe2\x80\x99s strategic plan aligns with that of the agency.

Why join our team:

\xc2\xb7 All benefits/perks are effective on your first day. These include:

• 20 days of front-loaded vacation.
• A comprehensive benefits package, with premiums paid for by the Employer.
• A defined benefit pension plan, with Employer contributions.
• Annual wellness allowances.
• Training and development funds, based on your career interests and needs.

\xc2\xb7 A number of agency-sponsored social events, including a summer barbeque, annual holiday party, and team days each year!

Who you are:

You are a strategic leader with excellent interpersonal and business communication skills. You have proven your ability to guide others in building high performing teams and reinforce a learning culture. You hold a relevant Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s degree, and have four or more years of progressively responsible management experience. You also have knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, database systems and web-based conferencing tools.

Assets to this position include:

• Having a background in supporting children and youth in care of the Director of Child Welfare, and/or residential and community outreach programs.
• Leadership experience in a unionized setting.

Other job requirements: * A satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.

• A valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate or willingness to obtain one prior to hire.

• A valid B.C. Driver\'s License (Class 5 or Class 7), and suitable driver\'s abstract.
• Access to a personal vehicle. This position is based in Surrey and involves travel in the Lower Mainland, the Fraser Valley and the Northwest Territories

• Documentation that you are legally approved to work in Canada.
• Our funding contracts require that successful applicants are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their start date.

Please submit a resume and cover letter referencing the competition number 2023015PD1.R. This position is excluded from BCGEU membership.

We thank all candidates for their applications, but please note that we will be contacting only those whom we invite for an interview.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant\'s credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.

PLEA