Organization: Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA)
Location: Remote (within British Columbia)
Position Type: Full Time, Year Round

About Us:

The Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 to promote sustainable bear viewing practices and support the long-term conservation of wild bears and their ecosystems. We represent bear viewing operators across British Columbia and work collaboratively with government, Indigenous communities, industry, and the public to grow a responsible and thriving sector rooted in stewardship, education, and advocacy.

Position Overview:

The Executive Director (ED) is the senior leader and primary spokesperson for the CBVA. The ED is responsible for executing the organization’s vision and mission, ensuring its financial and operational sustainability, and driving strategic initiatives that support members, advance conservation goals, and enhance industry credibility. This is a high-impact leadership role requiring a dynamic communicator, relationship-builder, and policy advocate with a deep understanding of BC’s tourism and natural resource sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Provide strategic direction and advice to the Board of Directors
• Lead annual and long-term planning processes, aligning programs and initiatives with CBVA’s mission
• Represent CBVA in high-level meetings with government, Indigenous partners, media, and external stakeholders

Operations & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with society and lobbying requirements
• Maintain secure digital infrastructure, accurate records, and transparent financial systems
• Manage a team member, including payroll and human resources functions
• Organize and facilitate monthly board meetings.

Advocacy & Government Relations

• Develop and execute advocacy strategies to influence public policy and secure long-term land access and operating certainty for the bear viewing sector
• Serve as CBVA’s registered lobbyist; maintain compliance with the Lobbyist Act and reporting
• Engage regularly with Ministries, the Conservation Officer Service, BC Parks, and Indigenous governments

Programs & Member Services

• Administer annual guide training and certification programs (e.g., Level 1 Guide Courses)
• Oversee the CBVA Small Grant Program, including application review, fund disbursement, and contract management
• Plan and deliver key events such as the Annual General Meeting, Guide Symposium and political events

Communications & Marketing

• Serve as the main point of contact for members, media, and the public
• Lead CBVA’s communications strategy, including newsletters, press releases, speeches, and social media campaigns
• Promote the organization’s brand and ensure consistent messaging across platforms

Tourism Sector Collaboration

• Build partnerships across the tourism, wildlife, and conservation sectors
• Represent CBVA in multi-sector coalitions such as the Adventure Tourism Coalition, Tourism Industry Association BC, Wilderness Tourism Association, and others
• Contribute to policy papers, land-use planning processes, and sustainable tourism initiatives

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is an experienced, values-driven leader with a passion for conservation and sustainable tourism. You are equally comfortable in boardrooms, community halls, and remote wilderness lodges. You bring integrity, professionalism, and a collaborative mindset to every conversation and decision.

Qualifications

• Preferred: a Master’s degree in Tourism, Business, Environmental Studies, or a related discipline; equivalent experience offering similar expertise will also be considered
• Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience, preferably in a non-profit or member-based organization
• Proven experience in advocacy, government relations, and public policy
• Strong knowledge of BC’s land use, permitting, and tenure systems
• Familiarity with Indigenous governance, rights, and relationships in BC
• Valid BC driver’s license and clean driving record

Core Competencies

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong financial literacy and budgeting ability
• High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills
• Strategic thinking paired with practical execution
• Comfortable working independently and remotely
• Familiarity with digital tools for project management, financial tracking, and communications

Work Environment & Travel

This is a remote position based in British Columbia. Travel to remote and rural areas, including Victoria and Vancouver, is required periodically. Some evening and weekend work may be necessary for events and stakeholder engagements.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary: $80,000 – $100,000 CDN (commensurate with experience)
• Health Spending Account
• Flexible time-off policy
• Opportunities to participate in bear viewing trips

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role to admin@bearviewing.ca by December 12, 2025