Position Title: Executive Director (ED)
Organization: Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen (GNFK)
Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid: On-site & Remote)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Employment Type: Full-time, 1-year term (renewable)
Salary: $90,000 – $130,000 (inclusive of benefits, commensurate with experience)
Start Date: Immediate

About GNFK

Founded in 2006, GNFK is a registered non-profit charity inspired by Sikh principles, especially “Sarbhat da Bhalla” (well-being of all). With the motto “Love All, Feed All,” GNFK provides hot meals and essential support to vulnerable individuals and families in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and the Lower Mainland.

Driven by an unwavering spirit of volunteerism, GNFK is deeply rooted in Guru Nanak’s transformative principles of Seva (selfless service), Kirat Karo (honest living), Naam Jappo (remembrance of the Divine), and Wand Chako (sharing with others). These core Sikh values are not merely ideals – they are the living, breathing foundation of our work, inspiring faith in action, uplifting the community, and empowering individuals to create lasting positive change.

Role Overview

The Executive Director (ED) is the senior-most strategic and operational leader of GNFK, responsible for overall strategy, operations, fundraising, community engagement, and team development. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED ensures the effective delivery of all programs and services, alignment with GNFK’s Sikh values, and compliance with all regulatory and legislative requirements. The ED will work collaboratively with the Board, an Executive Assistant and Lead Volunteers.

This values-based leadership role calls for strong non-profit management skills and deep personal alignment with Sikh principles, leading with accountability and a service orientation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Champion GNFK’s mission and values, cultivating a culture of compassion, inclusivity, and service.
• Collaborate with the Board to develop and execute strategic plans, ensuring GNFK’s long-term sustainability and growth.
• Serve as GNFK’s ambassador, representing the organization with integrity in public, community, and partnership settings.

Program Oversight & Innovation

• Ensure the effective delivery of core programs (Langar, meal distributions, essential items support), maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and dignity.
• Lead the development and implementation of internal policies, operational frameworks, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and launch innovative projects aligned with GNFK’s mission and community needs, expanding reach and relevance through partnerships with local organizations, educational institutions, and government bodies.
• Develop clear project charters, stakeholder roles, and measurable outcomes; oversee program evaluations and impact assessments.

Volunteer Engagement & Development

• Design and implement a strategic volunteer recruitment and engagement plan, including attracting, onboarding, and retaining diverse volunteers.
• Build a tiered leadership framework, empowering volunteers at all levels and fostering a cohesive, supportive team environment, with a focus on peer mentorship and leadership development.
• Oversee volunteer data management systems, role clarity, and impact metrics; conduct regular check-ins, listening sessions, and climate assessments to promote wellness and psychological safety.

Fundraising & Donor Relations

• Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and grant-makers, ensuring responsible stewardship and transparency.
• Search and pursue grant applications and Board-directed funding opportunities and partnerships.
• Lead fundraising campaigns and events (e.g., Bike/Walk Event, Golf Tournament) in collaboration with Lead Volunteers.
• Prepare fundraising reports, impact stories, proposals, and donor recognition plans.

Community & Public Relations

• Serve as GNFK’s primary spokesperson, representing the organization at public events, media interviews, and civic forums.
• Develop relationships and strategic partnerships with local non-profits, religious organizations, Gurdwaras and other Sikh institutions, civic groups and media outlets to amplify GNFK’s voice.
• Oversee values-aligned messaging across all public channels, including newsletters, community reports, press releases, and social media.
• Manage all aspects of the organization’s website, including content development and design.

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with CRA regulations and BC non-profit governance laws.
• Prepare operational and financial reports for the Board; manage budgeting, fiscal performance, risk management, and audits in collaboration with the Treasurer.

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in the non-profit or community service sector.
• Proven success in managing volunteer teams, leading programs and events from concept through implementation, managing finances and ensuring compliance.
• Experience in fundraising, donor stewardship, and grant writing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and team facilitation.
• Strong organizational and system thinking abilities.
• Alignment with GNFK’s mission.
• Understanding and respect for Sikh principles and values and their application to community service.
• Punjabi language fluency.

Preferred:

• Background in food security, social services, faith-based or values-driven community organizations.
• Lived experience or deep resonance with the principles of Sikh faith and Seva.
• Familiarity with issues facing marginalized communities in Vancouver (e.g., food insecurity, homelessness).
• Experience managing DEI initiatives across multigenerational and multicultural teams.
• Proficiency in donor management systems, CRM tools and grant applications.
• Written Punjabi proficiency.
• Knowledge of Canadian charity law and CRA compliance standards.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid role with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and in-person events, balanced with remote work.

To Apply:
Please forward your resume to Programmanager@gnfk.org Application deadline: November 28, 2025, 5pm