Executive Director - Bison Lodge (NAPDA)
Lead a historic river-valley heritage venue and community hub in Edmonton
Organization: NAPDA
Location: Edmonton, AB (on-site)
Type: Full-time, permanent, salaried
Reports to: Board of Directors
About Us
NAPDA is an Alberta Society that operates Bison Lodge, a historic heritage venue and social enterprise nestled in Edmonton's river valley. Our purpose is to welcome visitors and guests to our historic river valley facility to share stories, knowledge, and cultural experiences that promote an inclusive understanding of our region. Guided by four Strategic Pillars — Financial Sustainability, Community & Partnerships, Historical Stewardship, and Programming & Experience — we blend heritage preservation with vibrant community programming, weddings, and events.
The Opportunity
We're seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial Executive Director to provide strategic and operational leadership for Bison Lodge and NAPDA. Reporting to the Board, you'll be the organization's senior leader — driving financial sustainability, growing our community presence, stewarding a beloved heritage asset, and delivering meaningful cultural programming. You'll be the first point of contact for clients and bookings, the leader of our staff team, and a trusted partner to our Board.
What You'll Do
- Lead & strategize: Set direction and execute annual and multi-year plans aligned with our Purpose and Strategic Pillars.
- Drive financial health: Own budgeting, forecasting, and diversified revenue across grants, sponsorships, memberships, events, and donations.
- Grow revenue & bookings: Manage client inquiries, contracts, invoicing, and event pricing; transition confirmed events to the Event Manager.
- Develop funds: Write grants, cultivate sponsors and donors, and lead fundraising including our casino initiative.
- Champion programming & culture: Oversee inclusive, culturally informed programs and signature events.
- Steward our heritage: Preserve historical records and artifacts and support our path toward potential museum status.
- Build community: Deepen partnerships with cultural leaders, Indigenous artists, schools, and community organizations.
- Lead people: Hire, supervise, and support staff, and maintain a positive, compliant workplace.
- Manage the facility: Oversee maintenance and preservation of our historic building through the Building Manager.
- Manage risk & governance: Oversee compliance, insurance, safety, and confidentiality, and support the Board and its committees.
What You Bring
- Progressive senior leadership experience in a non-profit, cultural, heritage, hospitality, or venue setting
- Proven financial management, fund development, and grant-writing abilities
- Strong governance, risk, and relationship-building skills
- Cultural competency and a genuine commitment to inclusion and community impact
- Facility and/or event operations experience an asset
- Knowledge of Alberta not-for-profit governance and employment standards an asset
Working Conditions
This is a management position exempt from overtime; hours will vary and include occasional evenings and weekends to support events. The role is on-site at Bison Lodge in Edmonton.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to the NAPDA Board of Directors at [email protected] by July 31, 2026 We thank all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. NAPDA is an equal-opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and welcoming organization.
Pay: $65,000.00-$95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
