Executive Director

The Canadian Oilseed Processors Association (COPA) is a federally incorporated, non-profit organization headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, representing Canada’s oilseed processing sector. With deep roots in Canada’s agricultural landscape, COPA serves as a credible, constructive voice in policy advocacy, industry promotion, and regulatory engagement. Closely aligned with the Canola Council of Canada, the association plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity, competitiveness, and sustainability of a sector vital to the national economy.

Through its strategic focus and member-driven mandate, COPA is positioned as an influential stakeholder at the intersection of agriculture, trade, and environmental innovation.

The Executive Director will serve as the senior-most leader of COPA, reporting to and working under the guidance of a highly engaged Board of Directors s role provides collaborative leadership to advance COPA's strategic priorities, including market access, regulatory clarity, and sector competitiveness. The Executive Director will oversee the organization’s operations, represent member interests to government and industry, and maintain alignment with CCC initiatives.

With a lean internal team, the Executive Director must blend strategic vision with operational discipline, ensuring high-impact advocacy and responsive member engagement.

Ideal candidates will bring a minimum of ten years of experience in progressively senior leadership roles, with demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and organizational management. A background in agriculture or a related resource or processing sector - ideally supported by a master’s degree - is strongly preferred, along with experience in policy development and stakeholder relations. The successful leader will be a persuasive communicator, principled advocate, and collaborative problem-solver, capable of navigating complex policy landscapes while fostering strong relationships across government, industry, and academia.

Integrity, judgment, and a deep respect for consensus-based governance are essential.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected national organization at a time of transformation and growth in the agri-feed-food-energy sector. With operations anchored in Winnipeg and a mandate that spans the country, the role offers flexibility and meaningful influence over policy, regulation, and industry priorities. The incoming Executive Director will join a well-aligned board and an experienced partner network, with the opportunity to elevate the sector’s profile and contribute meaningfully to Canada’s economic and environmental future.

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We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Please note that we will only be in contact with those individuals moving forward with our client.