Executive Director

Location:

Ottawa, Ontario (National role with travel)
Position Type:  Full-time Executive Leadership
Posting Date:  February 2026

Final date to receive applications:  March 21, 2026

The Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC) is seeking an experienced, values-driven leader to serve as our next permanent, full-time Executive Director (Executive Director).

This is a unique opportunity to lead a national Indigenous organization advancing sport, physical activity, recreation, and wellness for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indigenous sport and supporting thriving, healthy communities nationwide.

About the Aboriginal Sport Circle
Established in 1995, ASC is Canada’s national voice for Indigenous sport and recreation. We work in partnership with Provincial and Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies, Indigenous communities, and sector partners to expand access to equitable, culturally meaningful sport and wellness opportunities.

ASC leads and supports major national initiatives, including:

National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC)
Aboriginal Coaching Program
Tom Longboat Awards and Indigenous Coaching Awards

The Opportunity
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will provide strategic, operational, and cultural leadership during an important period of growth, transition, and renewed national impact. This role is ideal for a leader who can build strong relationships, guide organizational evolution, and advocate for Indigenous sport equity with integrity and vision.

Key Responsibilities
The Executive Director will:

Strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities, governments, and key stakeholders

Lead implementation of the National Indigenous Sport Strategy

Guide ASC’s next strategic plan and support governance evolution

Oversee organizational operations, staff leadership, and funding agreements

Represent ASC nationally as a trusted, collaborative voice

Support and engage ASC’s provincial and territorial member organizations

Champion culturally grounded, community-driven sport and wellness initiatives

Advance philanthropic partnerships and resource development to support sustainable growth and expanded community impact

Who We’re Looking For
ASC is seeking a culturally grounded, adaptive leader who brings:

Senior leadership experience in complex organizations

A strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, values, and community priorities

The ability to anticipate policy, social, and political shifts affecting Indigenous sport

A persuasive and authentic advocacy style

Sound judgment in balancing opportunity, accountability, and organizational risk

A deep commitment to advancing equitable access to sport, recreation, and wellness

Relationship Builder and National Partner
The Executive Director will work collaboratively with:

Federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous governments

National Sport Organizations, Multi-sport organizations, funders, and sector partners

As the public face of ASC, the Executive Director will lead with integrity, compassion, and intercultural respect.

Operational and Governance Leadership
The successful candidate will demonstrate:

Strong execution and project leadership skills

Experience ensuring compliance with bylaws, regulations, and funding agreements

The ability to provide clear guidance and advice to a Board of Directors

Proven leadership in a dynamic not-for-profit or community-based environment

Financial and Funding Expertise
The Executive Director will bring knowledge of:

Not-for-profit financial management and reporting

Audit and accountability processes

Funding applications, contribution agreements, and partnership stewardship

Long-term fiscal sustainability and organizational health

Team Builder and Change Leader
ASC values a Executive Director who:

Inspires staff through growth and transition

Builds a collaborative and supportive team culture, including remote teams

Demonstrates strong people leadership and HR oversight

Creates a safe, respectful workplace that supports professional development

Experience and Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have:

5+ years of senior national-level leadership…