Chief Operating Officer (COO) or VP of Corporate Operations

Responsibilities + Accountabilities

Business Execution

Operational Leadership:

• Oversee the daily operations of IBC, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all processes
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to enhance productivity and ensure compliance with organizational goals
• Align operational strategies with corporate objectives and ensure timely delivery of quality services
• Streamline processes to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence
• Monitor and track organizational performance to drive strategic decision-making

Corporate Operations:

• Manage corporate functions, including finance, human resources, legal, and administrative services
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of corporate operations
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
• Deliver annual service plans and impact reports accurately and on schedule with input from relevant teams 
• Manage corporate and government-related deadlines and deliverables
• Provide operational support for long-term data and intelligence monitoring and reporting of program impacts 

Corporate Secretary Duties:

• Coordinate and prepare for Board of Director meetings, collaborating with senior executives on presentations and reports
• Manage Board committee activities, ensuring compliance with corporate governance and regulatory requirements
• Act as Corporate Secretary, advising on governance practices to board members and senior management
• Prepare meeting agendas, minutes and documentation
• Maintain corporate records and oversee the timely filing of legal and regulatory documents

IT, Systems and Records Management:

• Oversee IT systems development and implementation to ensure security, reliability and efficiency
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational capabilities
• Develop and implement records management policies, ensuring compliance with regulations
• Manage organizational records storage, retrieval, and disposal processes

Legal (Procurement and Contracts):

• Oversee legal functions including procurement, contract management, and compliance
• Develop and implement procurement policies to ensure transparency and efficiency
• Lead contract negotiations and ensure adherence to contractual obligations

Finance:

• Work closely with Innovate BC’s Audit & Finance Committee and the Chief Financial Officer to ensure Innovate BC has operational supports to ensure financial controls and reporting is in place
• Work closely with the CFO to ensure financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and spending plans are in place

Technical/Position Delivery

Human Resources:

• Direct HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee relations
• Establish HR policies fostering a positive and productive workplace, ensuring compliance with labour laws
• Lead the development of programs for employee growth and succession planning

Office Management:

• Manage office operations encompassing facilities procurement and administration
• Ensure a secure and efficient workplace environment through effective policies

Strategic Planning and Implementation:

• Work closely with the President and CEO to shape strategic decisions and ensure robust decision-making
• Contribute to and implement initiatives driving operational excellence aligned with IBC’s mission
• Monitor and report on strategic progress, operational goals, and KPIs

Government Partnership and Business Development

• Lead team to operationalize strategies to enhance the awareness of Innovate BC’s value proposition to external government stakeholders across the province
• Support the development of funding proposals and partnerships to expand Innovate BC’s programming to support innovation across B.C.
• Develop and implement processes to operationalize new and existing programs with increased efficiency
• Build relations and partnerships with like minded innovation industry leaders, where our partnerships will achieve operational efficiencies or successes

Special Projects:

• Oversee major procurement projects in collaboration with relevant business units
• Lead special projects as directed by the President and CEO, ensuring successful outcomes

Team/People Engagement

Team Leadership and Development:

• Mentor and develop an effective operations team, fostering innovation and accountability
• Cultivate a collaborative and inclusive work environment, promoting continuous improvement

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with key stakeholders including partners, clients, and government agencies
• Represent IBC at industry events, meetings, and conferences, communicating operational strategies effectively
• Support decision-making aligned with the Province’s priorities and policy objectives, driving operational adaptations

The list of duties and responsibilities described above is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded/modified from time to time as required by the organization’s needs.

Qualifications + Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior leadership role within a government organization, or equivalent experience working with provincial governments, the private sector, or non-profit organizations. Proven track record of securing, leading, and delivering major operational projects
• Demonstrated experience in driving economic development initiatives for major government programs, with a deep understanding of public policy and economic strategies, and an ability to operationalize the initiatives
• Experience in digital transformation, in selecting and implementing digital tools or platforms into an organization, to increase operational efficiency
• Understanding of British Columbia’s innovation ecosystem, with an established network within relevant provincial and federal government ministries and departments
• A graduate degree in business administration, finance, strategy, or a related field
• Proven track record of overseeing daily operations, enhancing productivity, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations
• Expertise in overseeing financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Strong capability in maintaining fiscal responsibility and supporting organizational growth
• Proficient in managing legal functions, including procurement, contract management, and compliance with contractual obligations
• Experienced in leading HR functions, fostering positive work environments, and implementing employee development programs 

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills + Abilities

• Capable of developing and executing operational strategies that align with organizational goals
• Demonstrates the ability to enhance productivity and ensure adherence to industry standards
• Proficient in designing and monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to optimize operational effectiveness
• Understanding of corporate governance and risk strategies, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders, effectively communicates organizational strategies, and fosters collaborative partnerships

Working Conditions

• IBC is a hybrid organization and requires employees to work in-office at least 2 days per week. IBC is headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., with a satellite office in Victoria, B.C.
• Limited travel may be required

What We Offer

• Competitive extended health benefits and pension plan
• Paid professional development
• Onsite fitness centre

This job description may change at the discretion of Innovate BC.

Salary and title (COO / VP Corporate Operations) will be commensurate with experience.