Lead the wave of innovation as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Advantage St. John’s:
Harnessing potential for Economic Growth in Canada’s historic coastal hub. Join us on the edge
of adventure and propel our global impact in renewable energy, ocean technology, and
economic expansion.
Advantage St. John’s will be the arms-length, not-for-profit, regional economic development
agency, serving the municipalities of the City of St. John’s and the Towns of Paradise and Conception
Bay South. The agency will be primarily externally focused in its efforts and be entrusted to
develop investment and business development initiatives, programs, projects, and associated
marketing plans. These activities will be developed in alignment with a strategic plan and the
advancement of the work of the agency.
Reporting to the Advantage St. John’s Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for
establishing the agency as a significant economic development player in the region. They will
hold a pivotal role within the organization, responsible for a comprehensive array of tasks and
initiatives aimed at the successful establishment and sustainable growth of Advantage St.
John’s. The CEO’s responsibilities encompass establishing the organization, developing a
robust strategic plan for economic growth, overseeing daily operations, managing finances and
human resources, building strategic partnerships, ensuring alignment with the strategic plan,
collecting and reporting data, managing business ventures and contracts, effectively
communicating Advantage St. John’s roles and responsibilities, providing resource allocation
recommendations, pursuing professional development, and serving as an enthusiastic
champion in the region, all of which are essential to Advantage St. John’s mission of creating
long-term economic opportunities and value-added employment.
As the ideal candidate for this role, you will have a Bachelor’s degree in a field closely related to
economic development or business, coupled with an impressive track record of relevant
experience. You should demonstrate a strong emphasis on partnership development within the
realms of public, private, and educational sectors. Furthermore, you should exhibit a
comprehensive understanding of economic development policy, programs, local value
propositions, and the various economic drivers and opportunities within the community. Proven
experience and familiarity with operating in a not-for-profit environment and reporting to a Board
of Directors is essential. You should also showcase your effective staff management skills,
proficiency in project management, and a successful history of crafting and executing strategic
plans and associated operational plans. Demonstrated ability in preparing funding proposals
and expertise in business financial planning and management is expected. Lastly, you should
excel in public communications and public speaking to effectively convey Advantage St. John’s
mission and goals.
Advantage St. John’s embraces a culture of belonging in the workplace. No matter who you are,
where you’re from, how you think, what you believe in, or who you love, your application is
welcome. Diversity is appreciated and there is understanding that we all come from different
backgrounds and different walks of life, bringing in unique perspectives and experiences.
Applications from 2SLGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC), women, newcomers to Canada, and people with disabilities are encouraged. If you require any
accommodation in the application and interview process, please let us know.
If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact Ryan Thistle at
rthistle@venor.ca, or Beverley Evans at bevans@venor.ca.
