Job Description

Executive Director, Enrolment Innovation & Strategy

(Full Time, Permanent)

Who We Are

Located on 10 beautiful acres in the heart of Olde Oakville, St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School (SMLS) is a premier independent school for girls from JK through to Grade 12. Our mission is to engage each girl in a personalized, real-world learning experience where she explores her unique pathways within a nurturing community.

An Opportunity to Join SMLS

Role Overview


The

Executive Director of Enrolment Innovation and Strategy

is a strategic leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of the school's enrolment strategy and management, including recruitment, retention, customer experience and sales. This role will provide inspiring leadership to the Enrolment team, strategizing and collaborating directly with both the Marketing & Communications and the Development departments. This role will provide visionary leadership to drive recruitment, foster deep community engagement, enhance school reputation, and oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive student and community experience. This role will also support the strategic priorities of the Board and actively contribute to Committee and Board meetings.


Position Details

Department: Enrolment Management


Reports to: Head of School


Working Conditions: Office Environment, Mac, Google Occasional evening/weekend work

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership, Innovation & Growth:

Develop and execute a comprehensive, innovative and integrated strategy for enrolment growth and student retention that aligns with the school's overarching strategic plan. Identify and capitalize on future growth opportunities for SMLS, preparing timely reports and attending both Strategy Committee and Board of Governors meetings as needed.

Enrolment Management Oversight:

Provide strategic direction and leadership for all enrolment functions, including admissions, recruitment, retention initiatives and an exemplary customer service experience for our incoming students and families, ensuring robust student pipelines and optimal enrolment numbers across all divisions.

Student & Community Experience Oversight:

Lead the strategic direction for cultivating an exceptional student and family experience from initial inquiry through to graduation and alumnae engagement, ensuring a seamless and positive journey for all community members.

Team Leadership:

Lead, mentor, and manage the Enrolment Management team fostering a highly collaborative and results-driven department.

Cross Division Collaboration

: Work closely with other departments to ensure a consistent and unified approach to supporting enrolment growth and institutional advancement. In collaboration with Marketing and Communications, develop and execute effective marketing, branding, and compelling messaging that resonates with key constituencies and effectively promotes the school's unique value proposition.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

Utilize comprehensive data analytics from all reporting departments to inform strategic planning, assess performance, and adapt initiatives to maximize impact.

Who You Are

Your Strengths

Results orientation & drive:

Demonstrated track record of setting and achieving (or exceeding) enrolment or sales targets Competitive mindset balanced with alignment to the school's mission

Proactive & entrepreneurial mindset:

Takes initiative, spots new opportunities, and acts on them quickly Comfort with ambiguity and ability to create new strategies

Creativity & innovation:

Generates fresh ideas to differentiate the school in a competitive market Uses data and insight to design campaigns, events, and partnerships that stand out

Relationship building & influence:

Naturally builds trust and rapport with prospective families, current parents, students, community members, and feeder schools Skilled at storytelling that resonates and inspires action

Strong communication & presentation skills:

Confident, compelling communicator across diverse audiences (one-on-one, groups, digital, and in person) Able to translate the school's values into clear, engaging messaging

Strategic & analytical thinking:

Uses data and market insight to inform decision making and refine approaches Understands demographic trends and competitor positioning

Collaboration & cross-functional leadership:

Works seamlessly with Marketing & Communications, Development, and Academic teams to align messaging and strategy Welcomes feedback and values shared goals

Adaptability & resilience:

Stays focused and positive in the face of challenges or changing market conditions Learns from setbacks and quickly pivots when needed

Mission alignment & authenticity:

Passionate about the SMLS' vision and values, and able to articulate them sincerely Understands and supports the value of a K-12 independent school education

Team Player:

Enjoy being part of a vibrant, collaborative community and you contribute positively to all areas of the school

Champion for girls' education:

Above all, you are an avid promoter of girls learning and leadership
Qualifications
Master's degree preferred; Bachelor's degree required in a relevant field (e.g., Marketing, Business Administration, Education, Non-Profit Management). Minimum 5+ years of progressive senior leadership experience, with a proven track record of success in enrolment strategy, management, marketing & communications, or development, preferably within an independent school or higher education setting. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute integrated strategic plans. Exceptional leadership, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams. Strong analytical skills and comfort with data-driven decision making. A deep commitment to the mission and values of SMLS and a passion for girls' education. Strong organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead teams effectively. A collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and is committed to the mission of SMLS and girls' education.

Why Join SMLS?

Our work is meaningful and important. As a school, we support each student's interests, talents, learning needs and strengths. Through our world-class facility, Signature Programs, expertise in girls' education, and dedication to personalization, our students become lifelong learners equipped to achieve excellence in whatever path they choose.


When you join SMLS, you join a fun and supportive community!


Our employees enjoy competitive compensation packages and may be eligible for some of the following benefits:


Health, vision, and dental care Life insurance, AD&D insurance, and Long Term Disability insurance Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) Mental health & wellbeing resources Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan / RRSP program with up to 5% employer match A healthy lunch program during the school year On-site fitness facilities On-site parking Time off during Winter Break and March Break Summer hours and extra long weekends in line with the school calendar

OUR VISION

Young women empowered to challenge and transform the world.

OUR MISSION

To engage each girl in a personalized, real-world learning experience where she explores her unique pathways within a nurturing community.

OUR VALUES

Excellence

Courage

Integrity

Belonging


If you are interested in an opportunity to join our school, please apply online at

We appreciate and thank all applicants for your interest in SMLS, however, only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted.


SMLS is an equal opportunity employer and we accommodate any needs under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment within our community.

Please contact Human Resources with any requirements or questions.