Head of MSI

The Head of MSI Canada is an exciting new role that will execute the leadership and vision MSI Reproductive Choices Canada in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and globally connected strategies. The Head of MSI Canada will implement leadership strategies, stakeholder engagement, fundraising, and operational management.

We are seeking a driven and entrepreneurial professional to manage our organization through a pivotal phase of development and growth. This person will possess the ability to guide our strategic direction, implement operational systems, possess strong communications acumen, and cultivate partnerships and secure funding. The Head of MSI Canada will be accountable and responsible for defined performance and fundraising goals as the sole staff member for MSI Canada.

This person will receive direction from other senior members across the global MSI Reproductive Choices partnership.

Location:

Ottawa, Canada (Remote, with local presence preferred)

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Support leadership for MSI Canada, ensuring alignment with MSI’s global mission and values.
• Implement a delivery plan set by global MSI leaders that defines MSI Canada’s unique value proposition and aligns with the global SRHR movement.
• Drive program impact, providing reporting and ensuring continuous improvement and learning

Governance and Compliance

• Act as the responsible party for all legal, compliance, and governance matters for MSI Canada, including compliance with Canadian not-for-profit regulations and Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements.
• Coordinate and support the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance and engagement through coordinating meetings, providing updates and supporting informed decision making.

Policy and Advocacy Engagement

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key contacts at Global Affairs Canada (GAC).
• Deepen advocacy and policy relationships to support and protect Canada’s global SRHR policy environment.

Fundraising and Financial Oversight

• Implement the execution of fundraising, communications, and marketing strategies set by global MSI leaders.
• Ensure robust financial management, including budgeting, reporting, and resource allocation.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Establish new relationships and maintain existing relationships with Global Affairs Canada (GAC), Canadian civil society organizations, donors, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborate within the MSI partnership, including the Global Support Office, to implement advocacy, policy, and communications strategies to protect and advance SRHR in Canada and globally.
• Represent MSI Canada at national and international forums, acting as a spokesperson and advocate for SRHR.

Key Skills

• Strategic thinking and vision-setting, with the ability to translate strategy into action.
• Excellent relationship-building, negotiation, and influencing skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, including relationship development and performance management.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English (French language skills are a strong asset).
• Strong financial acumen, including budget and resource management.
• Ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and manage competing priorities.
• High level of cultural competence and commitment to inclusion.

Key Experience

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required
• Strategy implementation experience ideally in SRHR and international development sector(s), or in a related not-for-profit/ international development sector.
• Proven track record of engaging with government agencies (ideally GAC), donors, and relevant civil society organizations in Canada.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, advocacy, and communications for international development NGOs.
• Experience managing budgets, teams, and complex projects.
• Familiarity with safeguarding and DEI best practices.
• Experience in organizational start-up, legal registration, and governance in a Canadian context is preferred.

We recruit talented, dynamic people with diverse backgrounds and experiences, all united by a belief in our…