We are currently seeking a Community Impact & Foundation Programs Manager to join our team.
The Community Impact & Foundation Programs Manager supports the Executive Director, Community Impact & FW Foundation, in the execution of First West’s community impact and philanthropic initiatives. This role advances grant-making, employee engagement, and community partnerships aligned with First West’s impact strategy. The Manager works closely with the Executive Director to coordinate regional initiatives, manage stakeholder relationships, and communicate program outcomes. In addition, this role supports the FW Foundation Board operations by preparing meeting materials, maintaining records, organizing logistics, and supporting board communications, ensuring effective governance and alignment with the Foundation’s mission.
Here’s what would be included as a part of your typical day
Leadership: Mentors the Foundation and Community teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment. Supports the Foundation’s mission by ensuring operational alignment with budgets, policies, and legislative requirements. Oversees financial and accounting records of the Foundation. Supports the Executive Director on strategy development and execution, long-term planning, and achievement of community investment strategies. Presents to the Foundation Board and external stakeholders on behalf of the Executive Director. Assists in achieving the annual goals and objectives for community investment and Foundation programs. Provides input on strategic initiatives and long-term planning. Acts as a conduit to First West’s executive liaison.
Program & Operational Oversight: Oversees the delivery, tracking, and compliance of grants, sponsorships and community investment initiatives and programs. Monitors program outcomes and impact, providing regular updates to the Executive Director. Maintains accurate records and supports the development of annual plans and budgets in collaboration with the Executive Director.
Stakeholder Engagement: Builds and maintains relationships with the marketing and communication teams, community partners, provincial networks, voluntary sector, and charitable organizations. Serves as a primary contact for community investment and Foundation inquiries. Supports donor stewardship and recognition efforts.
Reporting & Evaluation: Collects and analyzes impact data to evaluate First West’s community impact initiatives and for internal and external reporting, including Foundation Board and benchmarking requirements (e.g., London Benchmark Group Canada).
Communications and Events: Leads community investment storytelling and promotional strategies in collaboration with communications and marketing teams. Ensures consistent messaging and branding and supports the planning and execution of Foundation-related events and campaigns.
Community, Member & Donor Relations & Programs: Oversees the administration and tracking of Foundation grants and community sponsorships. Ensures compliance with grant guidelines and reporting requirements.
Community Impact: Provides strategic leadership in community investment efforts, identifying and maximizing opportunities to share FW's narrative and promote its mission. Guides the impact and local marketing teams on community priorities, ensuring alignment with FW's overall goals and objectives. Serves as an expert in community relationships and priorities, collaborating with regional leaders to develop and oversee effective community impact strategies. Supports opportunities to partner with other areas on initiatives and events that will benefit the brand.
Reporting (Support Role): Leads the evaluation and reporting, working with the Community Impact Team, of all corporate community investments through London Benchmark Group Canada.
Required Skills, Experience & Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in community investment, nonprofit, or corporate social responsibility roles
Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
Strategic thinking and ability to contribute to long-term planning.
Collaborative mindset with a passion for community impact.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with CRM or grant management systems.
Displays an understanding of risk and risk ownership by being able to demonstrate adherence to policies and procedures.
