Executive Director

The Alberta Chapter of The Wildlife Society (ACTWS) is seeking an Executive Director (ED) to support the day-to-day operations and continued growth of the Chapter. Working closely with the Board of Directors, committees, volunteers, and partners, the Executive Director will lead program development and coordination, events planning, communications and outreach, and Chapter initiatives that strengthen the wildlife professionals’ community and promote science-based wildlife conservation in Alberta.

This is a unique opportunity to work alongside a dedicated network of wildlife professionals to build partnerships, foster collaboration, support the Chapter’s expanding role in wildlife conservation across Alberta, and create professional development and educational opportunities.

Application Deadline: September 18, 2026

Start Date: October 2026

About the Position 

This position offers a flexible work schedule, with the workload varying throughout the year based on Chapter programming and events. The position is part-time (up to 80 hours per month) and reports to the Board of Directors while working closely with committees, volunteers, and partners.

This is a remote position that can be based anywhere in Alberta, with occasional travel within the province to attend the annual conference, and other Chapter events.

The ED is responsible for the following:

Outreach and Communication (approximately 75% of time)  

1. Communication

• Develop and pursue outreach initiatives to grow the Chapter’s profile and contribute to the wildlife profession in Alberta.
• Promote the Chapter’s programs, wildlife issues, events, and learning opportunities through the ACTWS website, social media, newsletters, and other communication channels.
• Create marketing and promotional materials for Chapter events and programs.
• Manage routine website content and updates using WordPress.

2. Program Implementation

• Plan and support public outreach events and professional development programs for members and supporters, including webinars, workshops, and other initiatives.
• Assist with planning and hosting the annual ACTWS conference. Attendance and participation in organizing the conference is mandatory.
• Promote participation in and public awareness of Chapter programs.
• Follow wildlife issues within Alberta to identify conservation issues of importance to the Chapter and recommend opportunities for Chapter involvement.
• Solicit input from the Executive Board and membership to support the Chapter in providing scientific expertise to decision-makers on land and wildlife management.
• Represent the Chapter at multi-stakeholder meetings and on relevant external committees.

Administrative/Governance Duties (approximately 25% of time)  

1. Fundraising and Partnerships

• Identify and pursue funding and partnership opportunities.
• Organize volunteers for the Chapter’s casino fundraising event every second year.

2. Governance and Board Support

• Communicate regularly with Board members and provide monthly written progress reports on ED activities.
• Assist and facilitate the Chapter’s volunteer committees as required, including facilitating meetings, supporting alignment with the strategic plan, and providing committee updates to the Executive Board.
• Participate in the development of the 2027–2032 Strategic Plan and lead development of the subsequent Implementation Plan.
• Act as liaison between the Chapter, the Canadian Section of The Wildlife Society, and The Wildlife Society.
• Review Chapter operational documents, including affiliation and partnership agreements, and provide recommendations as appropriate.
• Conduct membership surveys at regular intervals to assess member needs and program interests.
• Perform other relevant duties as requested by the President or Executive Board.

3. Financial Management

• Developing an annual budget and a multi-year financial plan in accordance with the Board’s policies on financial planning and budgeting.
• Ensuring effective financial control through monitoring, regulating, and revision of budgets and financial plans.

Required Qualifications 

• A completed post-secondary degree in environmental sciences, non-profit management, or wildlife related field (i.e., bachelors or graduate degree, diploma, or other certificate from a post-secondary institution).
• Strong connection to private, public, and academic professionals in the wildlife field in  Alberta and beyond.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Experience organizing and leading volunteers.
• Prior experience or familiarity with not-for-profit Board governance
• Ability to communicate effectively via written and oral media, including formal letters,  emails, and social media platforms.

Assets

• Previous employment within the environmental or wildlife profession in Alberta.
• Awareness of environmental/wildlife funding agencies and opportunities in Alberta.
• Previous experience raising funds for non-profit organizations.
• Knowledge and awareness of Alberta-related wildlife conservation issues, policy and legislation.
• Familiarity with The Wildlife Society structure, including the Canadian Section and  provincial Chapters throughout the country.

Remuneration/Perks 

This is a part-time position based on a maximum of 80 hours per month up to a maximum of $3500 per month ($42,000 per year). The ED also receives complimentary membership to the provincial chapter and parent society.

About the ACTWS 

The Alberta Chapter of The Wildlife Society (ACTWS) is a non-profit professional society governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by an Executive Director. The Chapter brings together wildlife professionals, students, researchers, Indigenous partners, government, industry, consultants, conservation organizations, and members of the public who share an interest in wildlife conservation and science-based wildlife management.

As a Chapter of The Wildlife Society, the ACTWS is committed to advancing wildlife conservation in Alberta through science, education, collaboration, and professional development. We provide opportunities for members to connect, learn, and share knowledge while supporting the application of sound science in wildlife management, conservation, and policy.

The ACTWS delivers year-round programs and services that strengthen the wildlife profession and support wildlife conservation in Alberta, including:

1. Professional Development
We provide conferences, webinars, workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events that support lifelong learning and professional growth.

2. Science, Conservation, and Partnerships
We promote science-based wildlife management by providing objective scientific perspectives on wildlife conservation and management issues affecting Alberta,  facilitating knowledge exchange, and supporting collaboration among diverse partners.

The ACTWS values collaboration, professionalism, scientific integrity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. We believe that the best conservation outcomes are achieved by working together and by fostering a strong, engaged community dedicated to the stewardship of Alberta’s wildlife and habitats.

HOW TO APPLY 

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and names and contact information for three references as a single .pdf to execdirector@actws.ca.

Application Deadline: September 18, 2026

While ACTWS appreciates all applications received, only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.