As Canada’s largest autism services organization, Kerry’s Place Autism Services is an acknowledged leader and provincially and nationally recognized authority in the sector. With revenues of approximately $85 million and over 1,100 employees, this non-profit organization serves the entire life span of autistic people and their families through a comprehensive suite of community and residential services and supports.
Founded over 50 years ago, the heart of Kerry’s Place lies in unlocking possibilities for every autistic individual. The organization seeks to create a future where all autistic people can participate fully in their communities: its Mission is to enhance the quality of life for autistic persons by being leaders in developing and providing individualized, evidence-based services and supports and building capacity by sharing its knowledge and expertise.
Every year, Kerry’s Place serves over 8,000 autistic individuals and their families in Ontario. This includes providing supportive living to over 275 autistic adults at over 90 locations across the province. Other programs include those for children and youth under the Ontario Autism Program, adult skill building and peer support groups, employment programs and respite options. It is poised to play a pivotal role in helping to resolve developmental services waitlists by significantly expanding its housing capacity in the next five to ten years.
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) assumes overarching stewardship of the organization’s strategic direction, cultural vitality, and enduring performance. Entrusted with creating and sustaining a bold and strategic vision, this leader will shape a forward-looking strategy that ignites ingenuity, fosters growth, and strengthens the organization’s position as both a sector leader and an employer of exceptional distinction. Within an increasingly complex fiscal and operational landscape, the President and CEO will ensure that every dimension of the organization reflects excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to its mission.
Anchored by a commitment to transformation and impact, the President and CEO will focus on and advance Kerry’s Place’s key strategic themes of Service Excellence, Organizational Excellence, and Sector Leadership. Service Excellence will be achieved through growth, innovation, and strong financial performance, including an ambitious housing strategy that addresses developmental services waitlists and adapts to a new market-driven, fee-for-service model. Within a complex funding environment, the President and CEO will advocate for a more responsive government model while diversifying revenue, generating surpluses, and driving a compelling fundraising strategy. Organizational Excellence will flourish through a culture that empowers exceptional people, nurtures inclusivity and belonging, and aligns talent and leadership with strategic ambition. Sector Leadership will be realized by forging partnerships, advancing research and knowledge, and elevating the organization’s voice as a trusted and influential presence across provincial and national landscapes. Through these interwoven strategic themes, the President and CEO will uphold the organization’s prominence in delivering outstanding service to autistic individuals and their families.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished and visionary leader who can create a sense of unity and purpose across a large and complex organization undergoing significant change. Exceptional strategic judgment, financial acumen, a commercial mindset, a passion for performance excellence, a strong belief in a person-centred approach, and a commitment to building relationships and partnerships are essential. The successful candidate will demonstrate perseverance in the face of challenges and bring a proven record of inspiring innovation, cultivating collaboration, and achieving transformative outcomes through authenticity, empathy, and foresight. Knowledge of the developmental services and autism sectors, while not a requirement, will be viewed as an asset. A politically astute and inclusive leader, the President and CEO will galvanize collective purpose, champion change with clarity and conviction, and fortify the legacy of an organization dedicated to enhancing lives and strengthening communities.
To learn more or pursue this opportunity, please contact Jim Stonehouse, Partner and Pamela Colquhoun, Partner via Kathy Luu, Senior Associate at kluu@boyden.com.
Kerry’s Place is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusivity in employment and welcomes applications from all qualified persons. Kerry’s Place is also committed to providing accommodations for persons with disabilities. If you require an accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.
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