How to Apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter by July 29, 2026.

Email: ed@visitdowntowncanmore.com

Land Acknowledgement

The Canmore Downtown BIA acknowledges that we work and gather on the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda (Stoney Nakoda) Nations, including Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney, as well as the Tsuut’ina, the Blackfoot Confederacy, and the Rocky View Métis District within the Battleriver Territory.

About the Canmore Downtown BIA

The Canmore Downtown BIA represents approximately 200 member businesses and property owners located within Canmore’s downtown core.

The organization is governed by an eight-member volunteer Board of Directors, supported by a non-voting liaison from the Town of Canmore. The BIA operates with an annual budget of approximately $235,000, in addition to grant funding.

The Canmore Downtown BIA is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

Position Summary

The Executive Director is the sole staff member of the Canmore Downtown BIA and is responsible for the organization’s day-to-day leadership, advocacy, and strategic direction.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will:

• Build strong relationships with BIA members.
• Advocate on behalf of downtown businesses.
• Work closely with the Town of Canmore and community partners.
• Lead the BIA’s marketing and communications strategy.
• Oversee downtown vibrancy and placemaking initiatives.

This is a hands-on leadership position suited to an experienced, organized, collaborative, and self-directed professional who is comfortable working independently.

What Success Looks Like in Year One

• Build trust and stronger engagement with BIA members and key stakeholders.
• Develop a Board-approved annual business plan.
• Develop a Board-approved long-term strategic plan.
• Successfully implement approved projects.

Key Responsibilities

Membership Engagement (Priority Focus)

• Build relationships and trust with BIA members.
• Establish regular and transparent communication through one-on-one meetings, drop-ins, newsletters, and other channels.
• Respond promptly and clearly to Board and member concerns.
• Represent member interests to the Board and external stakeholders.

Advocacy & Government Relations

• Represent the BIA’s interests with the Town of Canmore Council and Administration.
• Build relationships with community organizations, including:
  
  • Canmore Business Alliance
  • Tourism Canmore Kananaskis
  • BOWDA
  • Canmore Chamber of Commerce
• Build relationships with BIAs across Western Canada to share knowledge and best practices, including the Alberta BIA Alliance.
• Liaise with the Provincial Government regarding BIA legislation and related matters.
• Collect, analyze, and report data to the Board, members, and stakeholders.

Downtown Vibrancy & Placemaking

• Lead initiatives that improve the vitality, safety, and appeal of downtown Canmore.
• Plan and oversee events and activations with members and community partners.

Marketing & Communications

• Set the strategic direction for the BIA’s website, marketing, and social media.
• Oversee or execute marketing initiatives aligned with BIA priorities.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization.

Governance & Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget of approximately $235,000, plus grants.
• Work with a contracted bookkeeper who reports financials to the Treasurer and Board.
• Prepare Board meeting materials and support Board governance.
• Pursue grants, sponsorships, and additional funding opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of relevant experience in nonprofit or association management, economic development, government relations, or business.
  
  
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Post-secondary education in communications, business, marketing, public administration, urban planning, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong strategic communications background with experience leading marketing initiatives.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, ideally within local government or association environments.
• Demonstrated success leading initiatives and implementing change with measurable outcomes.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience with budget development and financial oversight.
• Must currently reside in the Bow Valley.
• Satisfactory criminal record check.
• Legally entitled to work in Canada on a permanent basis.

Core Competencies

• Relationship building and stakeholder management
• Board governance
• Strategic communications and public speaking
• Financial management and budgeting
• Event and project management
• Problem solving
• Self-direction and adaptability
• Negotiation and advocacy

Working Conditions

• Full-time position based in the Downtown Canmore BIA office.
• A contract arrangement may be considered.
• Standard business hours with occasional evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays for events and activations.
• Office is accessible by transit and bicycle. A personal vehicle is not required.

Compensation & Benefits

• $75,000 to $95,000 CAD annually, inclusive of salary, vacation, and benefits.
• Three weeks of paid vacation.

Accessibility

The Canmore Downtown BIA is committed to an accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Closing Statement

The Canmore Downtown BIA thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.