Following the departure of former CEO Ian G. McKay, who resigned his position to take up the reins of federal investment attraction agency Invest in Canada, the Vancouver Economic Commission has begun its search for a new CEO.
Lead the team that helps shape the economic future of one of the most desirable global communities. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for leading the VEC to position Vancouver and the region as a global hub for investment in creative, innovative and sustainable business. The CEO sets priorities, programming and planning to meet the corporate objectives as set by the Board, including developing and executing on key deliverables of the strategic plan to build Vancouver’s brand locally, domestically and internationally as an exceptional and varied economic hub. In addition, the CEO also works with other levels of government to influence policy to create a favourable business investment client that will attract diverse industries. As the key spokesperson for the VEC, the CEO represents the organization at public events, in the media, and to inbound and outbound trade and investment missions.
As the ideal candidate, you have a proven track record of collaborating with a variety of diverse partners and constituents to achieve mutually beneficial goals. You are seen as a credible, influential and strategic professional who leads effectively by clearly communicating expectations and priorities, following through on deliverables and providing input and direction to ensure the accurate and timely achievement and communication of results. You have a working understanding of the policy and infrastructure levers that support economic growth, and you bring an ability to manage organizational changes, anticipate future events and identify opportunities to ensure an efficient use of resources. You will work with the Board to look for opportunities to diversify the VEC’s funding, recognizing the broader regional significance and importance of the organization. A seasoned leader who is skilled at working with a solid team of professionals, you have experience running all aspects of an organization, and you have worked closely with Boards of Directors to guide strategy development and set priorities. As a superior communicator and relationship generator, you bring an entrepreneurial approach and demonstrated success achieving and exceeding results through people, innovation, technology and an insightful approach. Ideally you understand the complexity of working in a multi-constituent environment and excel at bringing partners into the fold to achieve shared objectives.
About the Organization
The Vancouver Economic Commission (VEC) is the agency responsible for economic development for the City of Vancouver. The VEC works to position Vancouver as a globally recognised region for innovative, creative and sustainable business, and has a specific sector focus on technology, digital entertainment and interactive, and the green economy. Taking advantage of Vancouver’s prime geographic location as a gateway to a variety of world markets, the VEC connects businesses to people and capital resources, and works in partnership with all levels of government and industry to support an infrastructure for a thriving and diverse economy.
How to Apply
The VEC is excited to be working with PFM Executive Search to fill this role. Click here to find the full executive opportunity.
