Chief Executive Officer

September 5, 2025

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Job Description

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Seeds Canada’s office is in Ottawa; there is flexibility on the location of the CEO)

Seeds Canada is the leading voice of the Canadian seed sector, representing seed growers, analysts, breeders, distributors, processors, retailers, service providers and all stakeholders along the seed value chain from coast to coast.

Seeds Canada’s mandate is to support the growth of the seed sector in Canada and worldwide, focusing on plant breeding innovation, seed regulatory modernization, international trade, value creation, and plant breeders’ rights.

Seeds Canada is currently recruiting for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organization and help bring its members and clients success and growth in Canada and around the world.

We are searching for a proven strategic and operational leader who will continue to drive the organization’s evolution and growth, ensuring exceptional value to its members and clients through reliable service delivery, equality, diversity and inclusivity along with continuous opportunities for growth and innovation.

Responsibilities :

Leadership and Operations Management

  • Provide progressive and visionary leadership to the organization aligning with the needs of the members, staff and other stakeholders.
  • Uphold and promote the Values and Mission of Seeds Canada at all times.
  • Formulate plans and strategies, for approval by the Seeds Canada Board of Directors, to provide services and direction that look to future proof the requirements of the seed sector and ensure the long-term sustainability of Seeds Canada.
  • Maintain an appropriate team-based structure for Seeds Canada management, relationship with the Board of Directors, and delivery of organization objectives.
  • Understand the external environment in which Seeds Canada operates, particularly with the regard to government.
  • Collaborate with external stakeholders, including other industry groups, provincial and federal governments, on projects designed to further the seed sector in Canada.
  • Hold accountability and responsibility for effective financial management, planning and monitoring of the organization and its activities.
  • Ensure that regular financial forecasts are produced and information provided to the Seeds Canada Board and ensure compliance with all necessary financial, legal and professional regulations and procedures.
  • Foster a safe and respectful workplace within Seeds Canada that meets with all health and safety regulations.
  • Ensure compliance with all regulations pertaining to delivery of Seeds Canada Services.
  • Champion staff to represent Seeds Canada at conferences and meetings in a professional manner. Encourage staff to liaise with partners and members to continuously grow the reputation of Seeds Canada in the agriculture community.
  • Drive the organization and development of people policies, including maintenance and development of policies on recruitment, performance, training and development.

Communications and Member Management

  • Serve as chief spokesperson for Seeds Canada.
  • Oversee and approve the development and implementation of all internal and external communication materials.
  • Hold responsibility for the planning and delivery of programs and initiatives to improve member value and continued growth.
  • Maintain strong relationships with industry partners, acting as negotiator, liaison and advocate for members and their needs.

    • Governance

  • Develop, implement and monitor the annual plans for the organization together with programs and projects to meet objectives as set by the Board of Directors.
  • Assist the Board of Directors with the development of by-laws, policies, and procedures for the governance of the organization and direct staff’s implementation of those policies.
  • Assist the Board of Directors with the establishment and membership of standing committees and taskforces related to the Board of Directors.
  • Meet regularly with the Board of Directors to provide timely updates and analysis of organizational activities and financial performance.
  • Keep the Board of Directors informed on progress on objectives and address risk to said objectives, including addressing problems where objectives are not met.
  • Promote active involvement of members of the Board of Directors and its committees in program development, design and implementation, providing information, advice in the creation of policies, programs and strategic direction of Seeds Canada.

    • The Ideal Candidate Profile :

  • Strategic thinker who is able to assess options and forge a clear direction based on the trends and conditions of the environment and the vision and values of the organization.
  • Strong business and financial acumen, with experience driving organizations’ accountability and efficiency through re-structuring and systematic measurement and management.
  • Collaborative with external stakeholders to identify synergistic opportunities to further move the seed industry forward.
  • Establish a presence within the International Seed community (e.g. ISF, SAA, etc.).
  • Experience in managing change and leading others in successfully adapting to new and emerging issues.
  • Recognized within the crop sector based on their experience and understanding of the industry and their contribution and partnership within the cropping and agricultural science sectors.
  • Proven experience and ability to navigate regulations, including lobbying and influencing government regulatory bodies in an effort to contribute and support modernization of the industry.
  • Strong record of creating innovative member development initiatives, both traditional and non-traditional, that have generated increased revenue for an organization.
  • Capacity to draw on extensive personal and professional networks to build impactful relationships with partners, members and government.
  • An outstanding communicator and influencer, with the ability to communicate in both English and French a strong asset.
  • Intentional about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for the staff, members and partners.
  • Proven success working with a Board of Directors leading a non-government organization or association.
  • Passionate about research, innovation, and growth within the agriculture sector.
  • High integrity and transparency with the proven ability to lead and innovate and inspire within uncertain times.

    • Compensation and benefits

    The position provides a competitive compensation package that aligns with the skills and competencies of the individual.

    Come work with us

    We are committed to employment equity and encourage anyone who can contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives to apply.

    Please forward your resume and cover letter in strictest confidence by email to

    Seniority level

    Seniority level

    Executive

    Employment type

    Employment type

    Full-time

    Job function

    Industries

    Food and Beverage Manufacturing

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    Company

    Seeds Canada

    Location

    Ottawa

    Country

    Canada

    Salary

    200.000

    URL

    https://en-ca.whatjobs.com/coopob__cpl___291_2637665__3337?utm_source=3337&utm_medium=feed&keyword=Chief-Executive-Officer&location=Ottawa&geoID=4247