Hiring - Operations lead
Organization: Innovate Cochrane
Location: Cochrane, Alberta - Primarily Remote. Residency in Cochrane is preferred.
Reports to: Chair of the Board of Directors
Contract: 6 Months with the opportunity for renewal for 12+month terms
Posting timeframe: January 16, 2026 or until filled.
The Organization: Innovate Cochrane
Innovate Cochrane is a community-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering community innovation in all forms. Our mission is to support the development of a thriving, entrepreneurial town where citizens can work, play, and prosper. We serve as a vital link, connecting local leaders and innovators with resources, partners, and opportunities across the region, providing education and training and using examples of local innovation to inspire our community for success.
The Opportunity: Role Summary
The Operations Lead (OL) is the lead operational and support person, reporting to a working Board of Directors. This dynamic role is offered on a contract basis for a dedicated leader who can balance high-level strategy with hands-on execution.
The OL is responsible for successfully supporting the implementation of the strategic plan, strong organizational governance, supporting crucial fund development and revenue-generating opportunities, and overseeing daily operational activities. The ideal candidate is a decisive, clear communicator who is prepared to provide strategic leadership while simultaneously rolling up their sleeves to get the work done.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Governance
Provide operational support for the execution and successful delivery of the Innovate Cochrane Strategic Plan.
Develop and manage the annual operational plan, ensuring all projects are aligned with strategic commitments and managed within budget.
Support the Board of Directors in the development and refinement of organizational policies and procedures.
Support the Board Secretary in preparing agendas, supporting documentation, and minutes for meetings, ensuring all corporate records and the Minute Book are kept accurate and up-to-date.
Support the Treasurer in ensuring monthly/annual reporting requirements are met as per budget. Identifies challenges relating to cash flow and operating requirements.
2. Financial Management & Reporting
Support the annual budgeting process for Board approval, collaborating with the Board Treasurer and working with the Bookkeeper.
Provide for regular monthly financial updates for the Treasurer on the organization's financial status, to be communicated at each Board Meeting.
Ensure timely and accurate reporting for all grant funding requirements, remaining current on all financial reporting regulations.
Report to the Board and external Funders regarding organizational performance against key performance indicators (KPIs).
Ensure compliance with CRA regulations and requirements.
3. Operations, Programs & Personnel
Oversee all staff, contractors, and volunteers - including the Bookkeeper and Marketing & Communications Coordinator, ensuring all activities align with project goals and strategic objectives.
Provide essential support for all organizational meetings, events, and programs, including logistics and the organization of necessary photo/video assets.
Oversee the execution of the Marketing Strategy, supporting the development of robust digital engagement and digital storytelling platforms.
4. Community Engagement & Advancement
Act as a representative for Innovate Cochrane, building and maintaining strong relationships with community members, the Town of Cochrane, and academic and innovation-focused organizations across Alberta.
Represent Innovate Cochrane on community committees, including the Cochrane Community Innovation Team.
Provide support to the Advancement Committee for all fundraising and “friendraising” initiatives.
Represent the organization at key community and industry events.
Support all program recruitment efforts to ensure strong community participation.
Other duties as assigned by the Board.
Experience, Skills, and Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess the following combination of professional experience, demonstrated abilities, and education:
Leadership Experience: Five (5) or more years of management or leadership experience in a non-profit environment, ideally within the innovation or economic development sector.
Governance & Strategy: Proven experience working directly with a Board of Directors, effectively supporting governance and translating strategic goals into operational success.
Financial Acumen: Demonstrated experience with budget management, grant proposal writing, and compliance reporting.
Communication: Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, capable of conveying complex ideas clearly to diverse stakeholders.
Marketing: Experience in marketing and communications, including overseeing marketing engagement initiatives.
Ecosystem Knowledge: Deep understanding of current trends and opportunities within the local and regional innovation ecosystem.
Local Knowledge: Knowledge of and experience with business development in the Cochrane and surrounding area is preferred.
Education: A Diploma or Degree in Public or Business Administration or a related field is required.
Assets: Fund development and partnership development/management experience is a significant asset.
At Innovate Cochrane, we value potential as much as experience. Even if you don’t check every box in this posting, we encourage you to apply and share how your unique background could help us grow.
Contract Details
This role is offered as an independent consultant contract, not a permanent employment position.
Rate: $50 per hour based on experience
Hours: Approximately 24 hours per week
Nature: The Operations Lead will be retained as an independent contractor, responsible for their own business expenses, taxes, and benefits.
How to Apply
At Innovate Cochrane, we value diverse perspectives and potential as much as past experience. If you are excited about this role but don't check every box in the requirements, we still encourage you to apply and tell us how your unique background can contribute to our team.
Application Instructions: Please submit your application via email to admin@innovatecochrane.com following these guidelines:
Format: Combine your cover letter and resume into one single PDF file.
Subject Line: Use the subject: Operations Lead Application.
Cover Letter Requirement: In addition to your qualifications, please include a section sharing your personal perspectives on community innovation. We want to hear what it means to you and what you believe the potential impact is for organizations like Innovate Cochrane.
Thank you for your interest in Innovate Cochrane.
Closing Date: January 16, 2026 or once the position is filled.
