Chief Executive Officer, econext

St. John's, NL

econext is seeking a dynamic, people-focused Chief Executive Officer to build on its legacy of fostering sustainable economic development. This is an exciting opportunity for a values-driven, relationship-oriented leader to influence meaningful change while leading a mission-driven team in a modern, collaborative work environment.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit, member-based association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. For over 30 years, the organization has advanced environmentally sustainable economic development by stimulating innovation, preparing the workforce for a green economy, and catalyzing climate action across industries and communities.

As a trusted voice on green growth, econext supports a membership that spans energy, waste, natural resources, research, and innovation sectors. Its downtown St. John's headquarters offers a flexible, co-working environment that fosters connection and creativity. More information can be found at www.econext.ca.

The Role

The province is at a pivotal moment for clean growth and the new CEO will play a central role in shaping the future of the province's green economy. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will champion a bold vision that supports innovation, sustainability, and economic development across sectors. They are responsible for the overall success of the organization by providing strategic leadership, planning oversight and stewardship for all aspects of the organization's finances and operations. They oversee all operations, functions, and activities of the organization and are responsible for the successful leadership and management of the organization, according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors.

They work collaboratively with the Board and staff team to navigate ongoing planning and development, member relations, and partnerships, positioning the econext and the NL sustainable economy for long-term success and stability. The CEO acts as the figurehead of the organization and works closely with government, local businesses, and other industry stakeholders, acting as an advocate for sustainability and the environment.

Key areas of oversight:

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Stewardship

Provides strategic and operational leadership of the organization with oversight from the Board of Directors. Ensures the alignment of programs and initiatives with econext's vision and mandate and cultivates a strong and collaborative organizational culture.

External & Government Relations

Builds and maintains trusted relationships with a broad range of stakeholders including government officials, industry leaders, members, and community partners. Serves as a proactive and credible spokesperson, able to advocate for policy solutions, funding, and strategic alignment that support clean growth.

Public Profile & Communications

Leads proactive and responsive media engagement, speaking to the successes, challenges, and priorities of the organization. Uses storytelling and communications strategy to amplify econext's profile provincially, nationally, and internationally.

Team & Culture Development

Leads and empowers a team of 13 staff in a flexible, collaborative, and modern workplace culture. Creates a sense of shared ownership, trust, and motivation while supporting professional development, autonomy, and high retention.

Programming & Core Operations

Oversees annual programming including major events (conference, AGM, industry awards), board relations, HR, finance, and operational processes. Pursues emerging opportunities for impact, while maintaining a member-focused approach to service delivery.

The Ideal Candidate

You are a high-integrity, community-oriented leader with the ability to connect, communicate, and inspire. Known for your authenticity, energy, and ability to build relationships, you thrive in public and professional settings-from networking events and media interviews to team meetings and strategic planning sessions. You bring a strong sense of ownership and accountability, with a preference for proactive leadership, not politics. You have demonstrated your ability to lead people, navigate complexity, and deliver results in your past work. You are highly organized and adaptable, and you thrive in modern, flexible work environments. While experience in the green economy or economic development is not required, a passion for sustainable progress is essential.

Qualifications and Experience

While the Search Committee recognizes that no one candidate is likely to meet all qualifications in equal measure, those listed below are desirable and will be used to compare candidates.

• A university degree and at least 10 years of progressive leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success in team leadership, relationship-building, and strategic communications.
• Experience engaging with government, media, and other public-facing stakeholders.
• A collaborative leadership style, grounded in transparency, humility, and vision.

Skills and Attributes

• A purpose-driven leader who is energized by networking and engaging with people at meetings and events.
• Exceptional communication and relational skills, able to quickly build trusting relationships.
• Decisiveness combined with a facilitative style, leading with integrity and creativity, and sound judgment.
• Superior skill in strategic financial and organizational management.
• Excellent communication skills - able to seamlessly translate complex information for different audiences.
• A "pitch in" kind of leader who supports and empowers their team.

Why Join econext?

• Competitive salary
• Employer-matched RSP (up to 6% of salary)
• Benefits and insurance package, including flexible options
• Cell phone and expense allowances
• Paid vacation (20 days), personal leave (7 days), holidays (15+), and extended year-end break
• Flexible, modern co-working office in downtown St. John's

econext is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women; people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities/racialized people; and people with disabilities.

We will provide support and accommodations to applicants with disabilities, upon request. If you need accommodation to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact [email protected] or communicate your needs to the recruitment professional named in the job description.

If you are interested in this opportunity, contact Michelle Doyle at [email protected] or Dr. Jennie Massey at [email protected] or submit your full application package online at: https://www.kbrs.ca/Career/17431857592790000008xcp