Employment type: full time FOR MORE INFORMATION KCI Search + Talent has been retained to conduct this search on behalf of Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind (CGDB). For more information about this opportunity, please contact Ellie Rusonik, Senior Vice President/Practice Lead, KCI Search + Talent by email at: CGDB@kcitalent.com . Interested candidates should send their resume and letter of interest to the email address listed above by October 30, 2026. All inquiries and applications will be held in strict confidence. The salary range for this role is $130,000 - $150,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package including RRSP match. At Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that values diversity, promotes equity, and embraces inclusion. We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment is essential for innovation, collaboration, and overall success. We are committed to treating all individuals with respect and dignity, ensuring equal opportunities for growth and advancement. By actively promoting diversity in all its forms, we strive to create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is integral to our mission, and we continuously strive to cultivate an environment that reflects these principles. This posting is for an existing vacancy. The successful candidate will succeed the current Executive Director. Artificial intelligence will not be used to screen resumes nor assess candidates in this search. Executive Director THE OPPORTUNITY Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind (CGDB) is seeking a purpose and relationship driven Executive Director to build on the organization’s strong operational foundation and lead its next chapter of growth and impact. Reporting to the Board of Directors and supported by a talented and capable team with deep expertise in programs and operations, CGDB is well positioned for a leader who will leverage the strengths of the staff while bringing strategic leadership, external perspective and a strong focus on expanding CGDB’s profile, influence and reach. A background in guide dogs is not required; rather, the successful candidate will bring curiosity, a collaborative approach, and leadership to draw on the expertise of others while advancing the organization’s mission and future direction. The Executive Director will lead the development and implementation of a diversified revenue strategy, identifying new opportunities for philanthropy and strategic partnerships, while raising awareness of the vital role guide dogs play in enhancing independence and quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired, and supporting children and families living with autism. Working closely with the staff and Board, the ED will translate this strategy into a clear, measurable plan and build the relationships, infrastructure and organizational capacity required to deliver on it. As a visible ambassador for CGDB, the Executive Director will be a compelling storyteller and relationship builder, connecting the organization’s mission and impact with donors, partners, volunteers and the broader community. They will combine strategic vision and entrepreneurial thinking with the collaborative leadership style that engages and empowers others. Building on decades of groundbreaking work and the legacy of its founder, CGDB is well positioned for an exciting new phase of growth. With a strong foundation and an established reputation, the organization is ready for a strategic, forward-thinking Executive Director to advance its success, increase and diversify revenue, and expand its programs, reach and impact. Note: Dog training or handling experience is not required. CGDB employs a dedicated training team and operations staff for animal care. ABOUT CANADIAN GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind (CGDB) is a national, charitable organization founded in 1984 with a mandate to provide Canadians with greater mobility and independence through the use of professionally trained guide dogs (nationally) and autism service dogs (Ottawa area). CGDB provides professionally trained guide dogs that help Canadians who are blind or visually impaired navigate the world with greater mobility, confidence, and independence. The organization carefully selects dogs with the temperament and aptitude required for guide work—most commonly Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador-Golden crosses. After being raised and socialized by volunteer puppy walkers, the dogs begin formal training between 14 and 20 months of age. This specialized training, which typically lasts five to eight months, prepares each dog to safely guide its future handler by avoiding obstacles, maintaining focus, and responding calmly in a variety of environments. Once matched, clients participate in an intensive residential training program at CGDB's National Training Centre to build a strong partnership with their guide dog and learn how to work together as a team. Guide dogs are more than highly skilled companions—they provide freedom, confidence, and increased independence to the people they serve. Made possible entirely through donations and fundraising, the program provides guide dogs to clients at virtually no cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent Canadians from accessing this life-changing support. Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind does not receive any ongoing government funding and relies on the generosity of donors and funders to support its programs and services. Sources of funding includes individual and corporate donors, service clubs, foundations and grants, bequests and legacy gifts, as well as in-house and third-party fundraising events. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind website About CGDB 2025 Financial Statements Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Edward Mann, Chair Mary Jane Binks, Vice Chair Robert Meredith, Treasurer Bri