Executive Director

About Kamloops Heritage Railway Society

The Kamloops Heritage Railway Society is a registered charity and non-profit organization, mandated to maintain and operate the #2141 “Spirit of Kamloops” steam locomotive for the public, on behalf of the City of Kamloops. The #2141 steam locomotive, all railway equipment, and all assets are owned by the City of Kamloops and the citizens of Kamloops. Any profit earned by the society through the operation of scheduled rail-tour programs, events, or experiences goes toward the maintenance of the #2141 steam locomotive, railway equipment, operation of experiences, operation of the maintenance facility, training of crew, and salaries of paid employees. The Kamloops Heritage Railway Society relies heavily on volunteers to maintain the equipment and run our programs. It would not be possible to operate without the support of the City of Kamloops and donors, which the Kamloops Heritage Railway Society gratefully acknowledges and appreciates.

About the Executive Director Role

Reporting to the Kamloops Heritage Railway Society (KHRS) Board of Directors, the Executive Director is accountable to ensure the mission and vision of KHRS are brought to life through effective leadership and strategy for the organization. The Executive Director fosters and maintains excellent working relationships with all levels of government, community and business groups, to foster economic development. This position is responsible for operational, financial and administrative service delivery and provides support to the KHRS staff and volunteers in order to achieve organizational goals and objectives.

What You Will Be Doing

• Operational Management: Oversees and evaluates the coordination of programs, manages Human Resource requirements, develops policies and standard operating procedures, and accurately maintains records and reports.

• Financial Management: Liaises with funders, oversees finance staff, and ensures accounting procedures are followed.

• Risk Management: Identifies and evaluates the risks to the organization’s people, property, finances, goodwill, and image, implements measures to control risks.

• Board Partnership: Advises the Board on formulating policies, providing administrative support, preparing monthly reports, and translating strategic plans into strategies with measurable goals and objectives.

• Community and Stakeholder Relations: Develops and maintains strong working relationships with all stakeholders, oversees promotional materials and represents the GMFRC in the community.

What You Will Need

• Four to six years’ experience in a related senior leadership role, with demonstrated success in guiding and developing a team of employees and volunteers, preferably in a non-profit setting.

• Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management, Business, Railway Operations, and/or related field is preferred.

• Experience in railway industry, fundraising, safety management and hospitality experience are assets.

• A combination of education and experience will be considered.

• Experience working with a Board of Directors and knowledge of governance practices and standards.

• Strong team leadership and management skills, including the ability to oversee the work of volunteers.

• Excellent organization and time management skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and meet deadlines.

• Strong financial literacy and business acumen, including knowledge of budgeting best practices, understanding of the basics of tax, payroll, financial reporting, an in-depth understanding of corporate finance and performance measurement and general bookkeeping principles.

• Ability to build partnerships that foster engagement and collaboration with community partners and stakeholders.

• Strong communication skills, both verbally and in writing. This includes confidence in public speaking and presentations.

• Proficiency in Google Workspace and other administrative computer programs.

• Excellent safety orientation with the ability to create a positive and safe work environment for others.

• A driver’s license and clean driver’s abstract; Regular use of a vehicle is required.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, Monday-Friday, will also periodically require special hours of work including weekends and evenings to accommodate activities such as Board meetings and representing the organization at public events. 

• Occasional travel required.

• This position is based in Kamloops, BC and may require occasional travel within and outside of the province.

• Flexibility regarding work hours and work location will be provided.

We encourage you to read the full Job Description to gain additional insight about this remarkable opportunity.

Application Information:

If this dynamic opportunity to lead an exceptional team and make a difference in the community sounds like a great fit for you, please apply with your resume and cover letter.

This posting will remain open until end of day, Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 5:00pm. We will be reviewing applications as they come in so please do not hesitate in applying. The salary range for this position is $80,000 - $90,000, dependent on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

We look forward to hearing from and connecting with you!