Executive Director

Lethbridge, AB T1J0N8

Posted: 01/09/2026 Employment Type: Permanent Industry: Community, Arts, Culture and Recreation Job Number: ME10415319 Pay Rate: $90000-100000 / year

Job Description

Select People Solutions is pleased to be working with Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in their search for an Executive Director. The successful candidate will enhance and support the Garden’s role as a cultural and economic asset in Southern Alberta. The Executive Director provides leadership in tourism development, cultural programming, stakeholder engagement and operational management.
 
Established in 1967, Nikka Yuko quickly became a cultural community hub within Lethbridge. Symbolizing international friendship, this Canadian garden done in traditional Japanese style honours people of Japanese ancestry past, present and future, and is a gem for tourism. Nikka Yuko is excited to welcome an Executive Director that shares their passion for community engagement and their strategic vision.
 
What’s in it for You?
  • Comprehensive benefit package
  • Opportunities for community education and professional development
  • Best office view in an iconic Lethbridge location
Compensation & Hours: 
  • The rate of pay will be $90K-$100K/year depending on experience and background 
Position Summary: 
  • Implement the Board’s vision by executing strategic plans and organizational priorities
  • Provide leadership across cultural programming, tourism initiatives, stakeholder relations, and day-to-day operations
  • Build strong relationships with community partners, government bodies, and tourism organizations to advance shared goals
  • Lead tourism marketing efforts that enhance visibility, engagement, and visitor experience
  • Pursue ongoing tourism education and professional development to support continuous improvement
  • Manage and support staff, including onboarding, performance management, and terminations when required
  • Develop and track KPIs, produce reporting, and ensure alignment with industry standards and best practices
  • Oversee organizational finances, budgeting, and responsible fiscal management
  • Collaborate with the City of Lethbridge on contracts, operations, planning, and long-term initiatives
  • Coordinate and oversee the Annual General Meeting
  • Ensure clear communication, proper documentation, and full compliance with the Alberta Societies Act and AGLC requirements, bylaws, and all other applicable legislation and regulatory obligations governing the organization’s operations and governance
 Required Qualifications: 
  • 5 years of experience in non-profit or tourism leadership, focusing on cultural awareness and community development
  • Post-secondary education in a relevant field (business administration or tourism)
  • Experience working with external shareholders 
  • Ability to lead with diplomacy and community service 
  • Passion for, or willingness to learn, about Japanese culture 
  • Experience with event planning, marketing or program development
 Bonus Points For: 
  • Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification
  • Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) 
  • Experience writing and reporting on grants 
  • Well versed in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office/Share Point
  • Proven experience with regulatory compliance for a registered charitable organization, including the Alberta Societies Act, AGLC requirements, CRA charitable guidelines, and oversight of audited financial statements in collaboration with external auditors
 
Right People. Right Seat.
Exciting Job Opportunities in Lethbridge!

#INDHM

Founded in 1998, Select People Solutions is a locally owned, full-service recruitment, executive search, temporary staffing, and HR consulting firm. We partner with hundreds of companies throughout Southern Alberta to find them staff. Our goal is to provide job seekers with additional tools to connect them with meaningful employment opportunities, which is why we offer a range of employment options in our four divisions - agriculture, industrial, professional, and office. We look forward to hearing from you!

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About Lethbridge, AB

Unlock your career potential in the vibrant city of Lethbridge, Alberta! Explore our job opportunities in this charming community nestled in the heart of southern Alberta's prairies. With its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Oldman River, and a thriving arts scene showcased in the Southern Alberta Art Gallery and the Yates Memorial Centre, Lethbridge offers a perfect blend of work and play. Indulge in the local cuisine, stroll through the picturesque Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, or catch a game of the Lethbridge Hurricanes at the VisitLethbridge.com Arena. Join us in Lethbridge and discover a world of career growth and fulfillment.