Job Opportunities

Position Summary: 
We are looking to invite passionate, creative, committed and driven people to join our finance committee on a voluntary basis by sharing their professional and creative experience and advice in the finance field

About Harmony House:
Since 1986, Harmony House has been helping women and children flee violence and live safely. As Ottawa’s only second-stage women’s shelter, we bridge the gap between a woman living in crisis to eventually living independently in the community.

Term & Time Commitment:
Three (3) year term, approximately 4-6 hours a month, including but not limited to, preparing for and attending committee meetings, and reviewing materials for comment (eg. budget, draft policies). The amount of time expected of committee members will vary depending on the circumstances.

Duties: 
As a member of the finance committee, responsibilities include:

  • Governance and policy:
    • Support the governance of Harmony House including monitoring the performance of Harmony House in relation to its mission, objectives, core values and reputation
    • Review compliance with legal and regulatory matters relevant to the financial management function 
    • Inform and advise on risk management and financial matters as requested 
    • Help establish, review, recommend for Board approval and monitor finance policies and other major financial policy matters
    • Review, and recommend for Board approval, proposed changes to banking or borrowing 
  • Budget process:
    • Review, and recommend for Board approval, the annual budget and monitor the financial performance of Harmony House in relation to it 
    • Review unbudgeted operating expenditures and all capital expenditures 
    • Review the organization’s commitments related to capital spending and the related fundraising  requirements
  • Financial reporting:
    • Assist in reviewing financial statements on a timely basis 
    • Review the annual financial statements and recommend for approval by the Board

Desired Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of experience in the nonprofit, small business, grassroots organizations, or corporate sector 
  • Experience or expertise in finance 
  • Prior board experience is preferred 
  • Experience working in charitable organizations
  • Share the values of Harmony House 

Harmony House embraces diversity and strives on building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve our community. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our organization.

Harmony House is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. If contacted to participate in the recruitment and selection process, please advise us if you require an accommodation. 

Please send your resume and cover letter to:   president@harmonyhousews.com.

 

Job Title: Childcare Worker
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Harmony House Ottawa
Language Requirements: English,  French is an asset
Hours of Work: 37.5 hours a week, usually Monday to Friday, but some weekend hours may be required from time to time

Job Summary
As part of a team of frontline staff, the Case Worker – Women and Families, plays a pivotal role in the lives of the women-identified individuals and their dependents fleeing abuse.  Using a client-centered approach, and Anti-Racism / Anti-Oppression (AR/AO) lens, this position is the main intake worker for residents of Harmony House.  The Case Worker – Women and Families also responds to inquiries, helps clients resolve issues, and provides other necessary supports while respecting each woman’s self-determination and personal decision making.

Job Purpose
The purpose of this position is to work as part of a team to ensure that residents of Harmony House are assisted by providing daily support, information, practical assistance, intakes, and referrals.  The Case Worker – Women and Families also participates in facilitating skill development and providing advocacy with the various systems women may encounter in re-establishing their abuse-free lives. 

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

  • applying knowledge of the issues of trauma and the dynamics of woman abuse to develop and implement effective support strategies 
  • completing intakes, assessments, risk assessments/safety plans, and goal planning
  • in collaboration with the Executive Director and staff team, recommends, develops, and delivers creative programming based on client feedback and identified needs
  • keeping accurate case files, and recording information on the database
  • working with women individually and/or in groups to establish a plan that will facilitate a safe and effective path to independence
  • participating in facilitating monthly house meetings as required
  • engaging with the staff team to ensure the development and implementation of quality services
  • participating in case management meetings, and acts as an advocate on behalf of residents 
  • providing daily support services to residents 
  • accompanying women to appointments as necessary, which may include the legal and judicial systems, housing, and other service supports
  • exercising the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all residents 
  • using mediation, facilitation and negotiation skills to maintain a co-operative, supportive and productive house environment 
  • providing information and referrals, and responding appropriately to needs presented by residents, former residents, and other clients 
  • liaising with professionals and agencies in the community to facilitate access to services by clients 
  • communicating any issues relating to building to the Safety and Environment Coordinator 
  • providing crisis intervention, informal counselling, safety planning, and referrals to shelter residents and callers 
  • providing information and referrals to detox centers, treatment programs, supportive recovery programs, and other relevant mental health /addictions services 
  • negotiating treatment plans with clients that focus on harm reduction as needed
  • collaborating with community partners to ensure holistic and efficient service delivery to clients
  • maintaining, records and compiling program statistic and other reports as needed such as for the Annual Report, and donor impact information packages as requested by the Manager of Fundraising 
  • ensuring updates to client information is recorded, i.e. crisis calls, incidents reports, security issues, and Serious Occurrences Reports (SORs)
  • participating in ongoing program evaluation, including conducting client surveys
  • ensuring that residents are aware of, and understand their rights and responsibilities, house practices and procedures 
  • ensuring programming expenditure stay within budget allocation 
  • supervising students and volunteers as required 
  • assisting with food bank, moves-in, and moves-out as needed
  • any other duties as required that facilitate effective service delivery 

Minimum Education, General Skills and Experience: 

  • Successful candidates will hold at minimum a diploma in Social Service Work. A diploma in Assaulted Women and Children Counsellor/Advocate, or degree in Social Work, is preferred
  • Minimum two (2) years of work experience in fields of gender-based violence, child abuse, mental health, concurrent disorders, counselling and other social services supporting vulnerable women
  • An understanding of gender-based violence, child abuse, mental health disorders, addiction, poverty and homelessness, refugee and immigration issues, child development and parenting, and emerging trends and issues
  • Ability to provide person-centered, trauma-informed and AR/AO services and supports to women and children with diverse experiences and identities
  • Ability to work under pressure and in crisis situations, and within the context of a team structure
  • Confident decision maker and enthusiastic team player
  • Committed to upholding the organization’s mission, values and standards
  • Working knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act, knowledge of community resources and supports, working knowledge of the Landlord and Tenant Act 
  • Ability to work independently, multi-task and prioritize workload
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft software application, and the Internet 
  • Valid Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening completed (Criminal Reference Check to be updated every 3 years after employment) 
  • Current First Aid and CPR training 
  • Certificate in trauma counselling, definite asset 

Working Conditions

  • Physically able to climb stairs as shelter is on three levels without an elevator
  • Must be able to lift boxes of food for the food bank as required
  • May be required to lift furniture from time to time to assist with move-ins and move-outs
  • Must be able to share in evening duties with other team members
  • Must adhere to all policies and procedures of Harmony House 

Harmony House is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups.

 

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter by November 29, 2024 to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com with Case Worker in the subject line.  No phone calls please.

We thank all applicants for their interest, but we will only contact those who we wish to interview.

Job Opportunities

Harmony House is a non-profit organization that helps women break free from the cycle of violence. We owe our success to our team of compassionate volunteers, dedicated donors, and hard-working staff. They help bring our services to life and change the lives of many.
 
If you’re interested in joining the Harmony House community and making a positive difference in the world, please send your cover letter and resume to fundraising@harmonyhousews.com. We welcome anyone who shares our passion for empowering women and promoting safety and equality.
 
Stay tuned for upcoming job opportunities!

Job Opportunities

Job Title: Director of Development and Communications
Location: This is a Hybrid position
Language Requirements: English is required, Bilingualism French/English is an asset
Hours of Work: Flex hours that average 37.5 hours a week
Salary Range: $70,000 – $85,000 /year
Application deadline is 5pm, October 27

Job Summary
Working collaboratively with the Executive Director and Leadership Team, the Director of Development and Communications drives the overall fundraising vision and strategy, directing and overseeing short and long-term goals in alignment with the organization’s priorities and needs.

Job Purpose
The Director of Development and Communications plays a pivotal role in formulating and executing an all-encompassing fundraising strategy to secure the necessary financial resources for the programs and services offered by Harmony House.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plans and directs all fundraising programs, including direct mail and social media campaigns
  • Ensures the success of the annual Red & White Gala signature event
  • Develops strategy and plans to build successful Major Gifts and Planned Giving programs
  • Advances the current Monthly Giving Program
  • Identifies new potential income streams and produces strategies to access the funds
  • Develops strong cases for support for Harmony House Women’s Shelter, programs and services
  • Develops and implements the social media strategy
  • Ensures the website is kept current
  • Integrate digital fundraising into the communications efforts
  • Facilitates an annual donor stewardship program
  • Measures benchmarks of fundraising success
  • Supports the volunteer Fundraising Committee

Ideal Candidate

  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role
  • Demonstrated track record of strategic fundraising
  • Demonstrated communications and social media experience
  • Successful, significant, and relevant revenue achievements
  • Proven ability to build, manage and develop key stakeholder, client, and donor relationships
  • Track record of bringing innovative creative thinking and fresh ideas to an organization
  • Knowledge of the fundraising environment and of a range strategies and techniques to support the cost-effective revenue generation
  • Exceptional storytelling skills to inspire stakeholders and donors
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate initiatives and programs and initiate, develop and deliver new initiatives that build on their successes
  • Highly self-motivated and able to work autonomously, take initiative and make decisions
  • Commitment to the organization’s core values and strategic direction
  • Ability to work flexible hours
  • Energy, enthusiasm, and passion for women and children fleeing abuse
  • Valid Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening
  • A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle

Harmony House offers medical and dental benefits, retirement plan, LTD coverage, plus 3 weeks’ vacation.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com.  No phone calls please.

Application deadline is 5pm, October 27

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Job Title: Volunteer and Program Coordinator
Location: Ottawa
Language Requirements: English, French is an asset
Hours of Work: 37.5 hours a week, usually Monday to Friday, but some weekend hours may be required from time to time
Hourly Wage: $30.40

This is a one-year contract from November 6, 2023 to November 4, 2024

Job Summary
The Volunteer and Program Coordinator plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Harmony House Shelter.  They are often the first, and main contact for volunteers, students, and community members looking to assist Harmony House by volunteering or donating items such as furniture and clothing.

Job Purpose
The purpose of this position is to work as part of the dedicated Harmony House team to recruit, on-board, schedule, and motivate volunteers and co-op/placement students.  This position also coordinates programs and services, such as the food bank, back-to-school supplies, holiday meals/hampers, and community outings etc.

Duties and Responsibilities
The main duties and responsibilities of this position includes, but are not limited to:

  • Working with the staff team to assess and identify agency volunteer needs
  • Recruiting, interviewing, orientating, and scheduling volunteers and students
  • Assigning volunteers and students to appropriate programming areas, ensuring they are provided with positive and enriching experiences at Harmony House
  • Ensuring reports for co-op and placement students are completed
  • Managing volunteer policies, procedures and standards of volunteer service
  • Communicating regularly with volunteers, both electronically and in person
  • Conducting regular assessment of volunteer programs to ensure effectiveness and recommend changes as needed
  • Planning ongoing volunteer recognition and annual appreciation event
  • Maintaining up to date records of volunteer hours and program statistics and job descriptions
  • Assisting with public displays/community booths to educate, inform and recruit supporters
  • Representing Harmony House at networking events as needed
  • Coordinating the ongoing provision of quality designated programs and services, such as the food bank, back-to-school supplies, holiday activities etc.
  • Working within the organization’s approved budget, ensures the availability of appropriate program supplies any other duties as required that facilitate effective service delivery

Minimum Education, General Skills and Experience

  • Successful candidates will have post-secondary education and/or experience working in volunteer and/or program management
  • Minimum of 2 years’ experience managing programs in a non-profit setting
  • An understanding of gender-based violence
  • Effective communication skills
  • Skilled relationship builder
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive and collaborative working relationships with individuals and teams
  • Good conflict management and dispute resolution skills
  • Good decision-making skills with the ability to motivate and direct others
  • Sound judgment and excellent problem-solving/crisis management skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft software application, and the Internet
  • Valid Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening completed (Criminal Reference Check to be updated every 3 years after employment)
  • Current First Aid and CPR training

Working Conditions

  • Physically able to climb stairs as shelter is on three levels without an elevator
  • Must be able to lift boxes of food for the food bank as required
  • May be required to lift furniture from time to time to assist with move-ins and move-outs
  • Must adhere to all policies and procedures of Harmony House

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com with subject line ‘Volunteer Coordinator’.  No phone calls please.

Application deadline is 5pm, October 27.

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com.  No phone calls please.

Application deadline is 5pm, October 27

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Job Opportunities

Job Title: Director of Development and Communications
Location: This is a Hybrid position
Language Requirements: English is required, Bilingualism French/English is an asset
Hours of Work: Flex hours that average 37.5 hours a week
Salary Range: $70,000 – $85,000 /year

This is a one-year contract from August 7, 2023 to August 9, 2024

Job Title: Women’s and Family Support Advocate
Location: Harmony House
Language Requirements: English, French is an asset
Hours of Work: 37.5 hours a week, usually Monday to Friday, but some weekend hours may be required from time to time
Hourly Wage: $30.40

This is a one-year contract from August 7, 2023 to August 9, 2024

Job Summary
As part of a team of frontline staff, the Women’s and Family Support Advocate plays a pivotal role in the lives of the women-identified individuals and their dependents fleeing abuse.  Using a client-centered approach, and Anti-Racism / Anti-Oppression (AR/AO) lens, this position is the main intake worker for residents of Harmony House.  The Women’s and Family Support Advocate also responds to inquiries, helps clients resolve issues, and provides other necessary supports while respecting each woman’s self-determination and personal decision making.

Job Purpose 
The purpose of this position is to work as part of a team to ensure that residents of Harmony House are assisted by providing daily support, information, practical assistance, intakes, and referrals.  The Women’s and Family Support Advocate also participates in facilitating skill development and providing advocacy with the various systems women may encounter in re-establishing their abuse-free lives. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

The main duties and responsibilities of this position includes, but are not limited to:

  • applying knowledge of the issues of trauma and the dynamics of woman abuse to develop and implement effective support strategies 
  • completing intakes, assessments, risk assessments/safety plans, and goal planning
  • in collaboration with the Executive Director and staff team, recommends, develops, and delivers creative programming based on client feedback and identified needs
  • keeping accurate case files, and recording information on the database
  • working with women individually and/or in groups to establish a plan that will facilitate a safe and effective path to independence 
  • participating in facilitating monthly house meetings as required
  • engaging with the staff team to ensure the development and implementation of quality services
  • participating in case management meetings, and acts as an advocate on behalf of residents 
  • providing daily support services to residents 
  • accompanying women to appointments as necessary, which may include the legal and judicial systems, housing, and other service supports
  • exercising the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all residents 
  • using mediation, facilitation and negotiation skills to maintain a co-operative, supportive and productive house environment 
  • providing information and referrals, and responding appropriately to needs presented by residents, former residents, and other clients 
  • liaising with professionals and agencies in the community to facilitate access to services by clients 
  • communicating any issues relating to building to the Safety and Environment Coordinator 
  • providing crisis intervention, informal counselling, safety planning, and referrals to shelter residents and callers 
  • providing information and referrals to detox centers, treatment programs, supportive recovery programs, and other relevant mental health /addictions services 
  • negotiating treatment plans with clients that focus on harm reduction as needed
  • collaborating with community partners to ensure holistic and efficient service delivery to clients
  • maintaining, records and compiling program statistic and other reports as needed such as for the Annual Report, and donor impact information packages as requested by the Manager of Fundraising 
  • ensuring updates to client information is recorded, i.e. crisis calls, incidents reports, security issues, and Serious Occurrences Reports (SORs)
  • participating in ongoing program evaluation, including conducting client surveys
  • ensuring that residents are aware of, and understand their rights and responsibilities, house practices and procedures 
  • ensuring programming expenditure stay within budget allocation 
  • supervising students and volunteers as required 
  • assisting with food bank, moves-in, and moves-out as needed
  • any other duties as required that facilitate effective service delivery 

Minimum Education, General Skills and Experience: 

  • Successful candidates will hold at minimum a diploma in Social Service Work. A diploma in Assaulted Women and Children Counsellor/Advocate, or degree in Social Work, is preferred
  • Minimum two (2) years of work experience in fields of gender-based violence, child abuse, mental health, concurrent disorders, counselling and other social services supporting vulnerable women
  • An understanding of gender-based violence, child abuse, mental health disorders, addiction, poverty and homelessness, refugee and immigration issues, child development and parenting, and emerging trends and issues
  • Ability to provide person-centered, trauma-informed and AR/AO services and supports to women and children with diverse experiences and identities
  • Ability to work under pressure and in crisis situations, and within the context of a team structure
  • Confident decision maker and enthusiastic team player
  • Committed to upholding the organization’s mission, values and standards
  • Working knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act, knowledge of community resources and supports, working knowledge of the Landlord and Tenant Act 
  • Ability to work independently, multi-task and prioritize workload
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft software application, and the Internet 
  • Valid Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening completed (Criminal Reference Check to be updated every 3 years after employment) 
  • Current First Aid and CPR training 
  • Certificate in trauma counselling, definite asset 

Working Conditions

  • Physically able to climb stairs as shelter is on three levels without an elevator
  • Must be able to lift boxes of food for the food bank as required
  • May be required to lift furniture from time to time to assist with move-ins and move-outs
  • Must be able to share in evening duties with other team members
  • Must adhere to all policies and procedures of Harmony House

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com.  No phone calls please. This job posting will stay open until the position is filled.

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. 

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Job Title: Safety & Environment Coordinator
Location: Harmony House
Language Requirements: English, French is an asset
Hours of Work: 37.5 hours a week, usually Monday to Friday, but some weekend hours may be required from time to time
Hourly Wage: $25.56 an hour

This is a one-year contract from September 5, 2023 to August 30, 2024

Job Summary
As part of a team of dedicated staff, the Safety & Environment Coordinator plays a pivotal role in the lives of the women-identified individuals and their dependents fleeing abuse by ensuring a safe and welcoming living environment.  This position also participates in service planning and making suggestions to help improve service delivery.

Job Purpose 
The purpose of this position is to create and maintain safety standards for the individual shelter units, external grounds, and indoor space; and collect and track rent payments.  This position is also responsible for coordinating needed building services, such as yard care and snow removal.  In addition, the Safety & Environment Coordinator may be called upon to assist families move in and out of the shelter.

Duties and Responsibilities:

The main duties and responsibilities of this position includes, but are not limited to:

  • Conducting ongoing maintenance inspections of units 
  • Developing and tracking maintenance logs and coordinating services to resolve problems and undertake repairs
  • Scheduling annual, semi-annual or monthly services to prevent issues or meet required standards
  • Organizeing and distributing “Welcome Kits” to new residents
  • Providing information to residents regarding kitchen appliances, household fundamentals, garbage/recycling distribution and fire safety procedures
  • Overseeing contracted cleaning and maintenance workers, and other contracted services related to the building and facilities
  • Monitoring and organizing household donated items and distribute as necessary
  • Receiving and recording rent payments
  • Assisting with budget management for maintenance supplies and other facility related expenses
  • Ensuring a timely turnover of units by inspecting units as soon as they are vacated, and ensuring needed repairs are done before new tenants move in  
  • Ensuring all furniture and fixtures in the units are in top condition before welcoming new tenants 
  • Assisting with and/or deals with crisis situations as necessary
  • Responding to emergency situations in accordance with established procedures and guidelines
  • Contributing to general cleanliness of the facility, including ensuring all food waste garbage is removed from the office and common spaces daily
  • Assisting with food bank as needed
  • Other duties as required that facilitate effective service delivery 

Desired Education, General Skills and Experience: 

  • Completion of a post-secondary Diploma in Administration and Facility Management or equivalent education and experience
  • Knowledge and understanding of property management and upkeep
  • 2 years facility management experience
  • Knowledge of general household maintenance procedures Ability to work under pressure and in crisis situations, and within the context of a team structure
  • Cross-cultural awareness
  • Confident decision maker and enthusiastic team player
  • Committed to upholding the organization’s mission, values and standards
  • Ability to work independently, multi-task and prioritize workload
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft software application, and the Internet 
  • Valid Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening completed 
  • Current First Aid and CPR training 

Working Conditions

  • Must be physically able to carry out work, as much of the work requires lifting, moving boxes, and going up and down stairs
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
  • Must adhere to all policies and procedures of Harmony House 

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com.  No phone calls please. This job posting will stay open until the position is filled.

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. 

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Director@HarmonyHouseWS.com.  No phone calls please. This job posting will stay open until the position is filled.

At Harmony House we value diversity in the workplace and believe our work is stronger when it benefits from the experience and knowledge of a diverse team. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized and LGBTQ2+ communities, women with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. 

We thank all applicants for their interest in this employment opportunity. However only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Job Opportunities

Harmony House is hiring an Executive Director!

Apply to join our progressive team in running Ottawa’s only second-stage women’s shelter.
Application Deadline: Midnight May 28, 2023
We are currently seeking an experienced, self-motivated, professional Executive Director to oversee all operations, functions, and activities within Harmony House. This role requires a dynamic leader that operates in a manner consistent with the organization’s feminist philosophy and mission to create a world where women and their children are free from all forms of oppression and violence.

The Executive Director will oversee all areas of Harmony House including but not limited to HR management, program development, marketing, finances, facilities, and fundraising. They will also oversee all program services provided to women and children such as residential services, housing, and outreach and must be able to form strong relationships with other related organizations and agencies within the community.

The ideal candidate will have the skills and confidence needed to be the face of Harmony House, shouldering the responsibility of providing strategic direction and implementing a progressive vision for the future. Applicants should have sound organizational, management, strategic planning, interpersonal relationship and communication skills and be able to influence and inspire, ultimately enabling Harmony House to fully stand by its mission and reach its maximum potential.
Required Skills And Competencies
  1. Excellent organization and leadership skills to ensure that the operation of Harmony House meets the expectations of its clients, the Board, and funders.
  2. Master’s degree in social work, Women’s Studies, or a related field or a combination of education and work experience.
  3. Demonstrated history of advocacy, knowledge and experience in the area of anti-oppression, violence against women, with at least five years of experience working with a not-for-profit organization or service on a related Board of Directors.
  4. Proven experience as executive director or in other managerial positions.
  5. Experience in developing strategies and plans.
  6. Public relations and marketing knowledge.
  7. Ability to apply successful fundraising and networking techniques.
  8. Strong understanding of corporate finance and measures of performance.
  9. In-depth knowledge of corporate governance principles and managerial best practices.
  10. An analytical mind capable for “out-of-the-box” thinking to solve problems.
  11. Excellent communication (oral and written) and public speaking skills.

Job Duties

Job Duties
Human Resources Planning and Management
  • Establish a positive, healthy and safe work environment to ensure entire staff provide the best service possible to the women and children residing at Harmony House.
  • Oversee the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of Harmony House.
  • Develop and execute an operational plan which incorporates goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of Harmony House.
  • Determine staffing requirements for organizational management and program delivery.
  • Oversee the implementation of the human resources policies, procedures and practices, including the development of job description for all staff.
  • Establish a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations and the collective agreement.
  • Recruit, interview and select staff that have the right technical and personal abilities to help further Harmony House’s mission.
  • Ensure that all staff receive an orientation to the organization and that appropriate training is provided.
  • Establish a positive working relationship with the union.
  • Implement a performance management process for all staff which includes monitoring the performance of staff on an ongoing basis and conducting an annual performance review.
  • Coach and mentor staff as appropriate to improve performance and if required, use appropriate progressive discipline techniques to correct performance.
Program Planning and Management
  • Oversee the planning, implementation and evaluation of Harmony House’s programs and services.
  • Ensure that programs and services offered by Harmony House contribute to the organization’s mission and reflect the priorities of Harmony House.
  • Monitor the day-to-day delivery of programs and services at Harmony House to maintain or improve quality.
  • Oversee the planning, implementation, execution and evaluation of special projects.
Financial Planning and Management
  • Work with staff and the Board to prepare a comprehensive budget.
  • Work with the Board to secure adequate funding for the operation of the organization.
  • Participate in fundraising activities as appropriate.
  • Approve expenditures within the authority delegated by the Board.
  • Ensure that sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed.
  • Administer the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitor the monthly cash flow of the organization.
  • Provide the Board with comprehensive, regular reports on the revenues and expenditure of the organization.

Community

Relations/Advocacy
  • Communicate with stakeholders to keep them informed of the work of Harmony House and to identify changes in the community served by the organization.
  • Establish good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with community groups, funders, politicians, and other organizations to help achieve the goals of Harmony House.
  • Work with other service agencies in the violence against women (VAW) community and advocates on behalf of VAW and Harmony House issues and services. Work with the VAW sector and broader community towards women’s equality and to end violence against women.
Governance
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide Harmony House.
  • Proactively identify, assess, and inform the Board of Directors of internal and external issues that affect Harmony House.
  • Act as a professional advisor to the Board of Director on all aspects of Harmony House’s activities.
  • Foster effective teamwork between the Board and the Executive Director and between the Executive Director and staff.
  • Conduct official correspondence on behalf of the Board as appropriate and jointly with the Board when appropriate.
  • Draft policies for the approval of the Board and prepare procedures to implement Harmony House’s policies; review existing policies on an annual basis and recommend changes to the Board as appropriate.
Assets
  • Experience working in a women’s shelter
  • Bilingualism/knowledge of a second language
  • Knowledge of Violence against women programs
  • Lived experience or knowledge of immigration and refugee issues and legislation
Working Conditions
  • On-site presence required
  • Some weekend and evening work will be required
  • Regular lifting is required for providing services at the house
  • Travel to various conferences, meetings, legislative proceedings will be required within Ottawa and nationally
Compensation

Starting salary is $85,000 but may be higher based on qualifications. Harmony House offers an attractive total compensation package including benefits and retirement planning.

If interested, please email your application to director@harmonyhousews.com
While we thank all those who apply, only those invited for an interview will be contacted.

No phone calls please.

Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $25.56 per hour

Benefits:
  • Casual dress
  • Dental care
  • Employee assistance program
  • Extended health care
  • Flexible schedule
  • Life insurance
  • On-site parking
  • RRSP match
  • Vision care
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: One location

Job Opportunities

Harmony House - Women's Advocate

Position Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Region: ON – Ottawa Area
Location(s): Ottawa
Years Experience: 3-5
Full-Time Permanent Position
Responsibilities:
  • Performs all duties reflecting a commitment to feminist principles of woman-positive, anti-racist, anti-oppressive service delivery
  • Participates in Interviews, screening and selection of residents to live at Harmony House
  • Provides individual and group support based on the needs and goals of women living at or using the services of Harmony House
  • Provides supportive, non-directive counselling and crisis intervention as necessary
  • Works as a member of the team providing house coverage and community development
  • Contributes to the development and enactment of policies, procedures and goals of the program
  • Advocates for survivors of violence both on an individual level and within larger social systems
  • Some evenings may be required
Qualifications:
  • Experience in front-line anti-violence work
  • Feminist, anti-racist/anti-oppressive analysis of violence against women and their children
  • Strong knowledge of community resources available to survivors of violence
  • Oral and written fluency in English required, and oral and written fluency in French and other languages an asset
Harmony House is committed to Employment Equity and as such encourages applications from Aboriginal women, World Majority women (women of colour), Francophone women and lesbians.
While we thank all those who apply, only those invited for an interview will be contacted.

Valid Driver’s License
Current First Aid CPR
No phone calls, please.
Compensation Type: Salary with benefits

Please submit your cover letter and resume citing “Women Advocate” in the subject line to gardenloriann@gmail.com

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