Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Seeking an Experienced CEO to Lead a Dynamic Industry: The Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association (ACADA)

The Industry

Atlantic Canada is the gateway to North America from Europe with major seaports and world-class air and land access to all major Canadian and U.S markets.  It is a region driven by innovation and exports, seeing a 200% plus increase in the export of aerospace and defence services and materials over the last decade. The industry has achieved overall revenues in access of $1 Billion CDN dollars.  Business opportunities will continue to be enhanced through the Government of Canada’s shipbuilding program as well as the Ocean’s Supercluster initiative. The region is also home to Canada’s military forces with over 10,000 service personnel supporting maritime, air and land operations. In addition, the region supports innovative programs associated with sensor technologies, acoustics, training, cyber-tech and simulation.

The Organization

The Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association (ACADA) was formed in 2017 and currently includes more than 160-member companies of diverse size, capabilities and market sectors, from product-oriented businesses such as advanced composites, additive manufacturing and shipbuilding to service industries supporting military aircraft maintenance, special mission operations, turbine engine overhaul and training systems. Particular focus is afforded to the SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) companies which represent over 80% of the member population and are looking to grow their businesses domestically as well as internationally.

ACADA has offices and staff in each of the four Atlantic provinces. The preferred work location of the CEO is Halifax; however, this is open to discussion between the Board of Directors and the successful candidate.

The Position

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), in partnership with the Board of Directors, is responsible for the success of ACADA in achieving member value. Together with the Board, the CEO assures the development and growth of its membership, and is accountable to ACADA’s members, the Board of Directors and stakeholders for the effective management of the organization and its staff. The Board delegates responsibility for the management and day-to-day operations to the CEO and s/he has the authority to carry out these responsibilities in accordance with the direction and policies established by the Board. The CEO also provides direction to the Board as it carries out its governance duties and functions.
 

A Dynamic Role

This is a demanding position based on full responsibility for ACADA operations. The CEO handles detailed, complex concepts and problems, balances multiple tasks simultaneously, and makes rapid decisions regarding administrative issues.

The CEO plans and implements programs, establishes strong and appropriate relationships with the Board, committees, volunteers, staff, funding agencies and members; and develops smooth and constructive relationships with executive colleagues, outside agencies, organizations and individuals.

The CEO plans and meets deadlines and maintains a flexible work schedule to meet the demands of executive management. Hours may be long and irregular.

The CEO conveys a professional and positive image and attitude regarding ACADA and the aerospace & defence sector at large, demonstrating commitment to continued professional growth and development.

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s Degree is required with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior management position. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, demonstrates critical competencies in four broad categories: Commitment to Results, Business Savvy, Leading Change and Motivation.  Experience in the following areas would be an asset: aerospace and defence sector; running a not-for-profit organization; and possessing a Certified Association Executive (CAE) program designation.

Interested Candidates

If you’re interested in taking a leadership role in ACADA and Atlantic Canada’s fastest growing and most dynamic industry, please contact us to express your interest. Please send a letter stating your reasons for your interest in this position, including your salary expectations, and a resume to: 

jordan@policyintel.ca

Interested applicants are asked to respond by February 26, 2021.