Career Opportunity: Executive Director, Freedom Quest Youth Services Society
Kootenay Recruitment is proud to partner with Freedom Quest Youth Services Society in their search for their next Executive Director. This is an exceptional opportunity for a social service nonprofit leader who thrives in dynamic environments, cares deeply about young people and community wellbeing, and is motivated to steward impactful, culturally safe, and innovative services.
A High Impact Opportunity
Freedom Quest is a mission-centered, community-rooted organization that supports young people across the West Kootenay Boundary Region through multiple locations. The Executive Director will guide a committed team of between 30 and 40 staff across a diverse portfolio of programs, including youth substance-use services, mental health supports, therapeutic recreation, housing, and regional day treatment programs.
This seasoned leader will champion strategic initiatives, nurture community partnerships, and ensure organizational excellence across administration, finance, human resources, and program delivery. Reporting to the Board of Directors, this position holds responsibility over securing and managing resources, building organizational capacity, and advancing Freedom Quest's mission through informed decision-making, collaborative leadership, and strong advocacy.
This role is ideal for a leader who is energized by complexity and social impact and will work closely with program managers and administrative staff to implement strategic plans, enhance service models, and ensure programs remain accessible, responsive, and youth centered. The Executive Director represents Freedom Quest across the region—connecting with funders, Indigenous-led organizations, government partners, community groups, and families—to advance systemic change and elevate the voices of youth.
About Freedom Quest Youth Services Society
Freedom Quest is a deeply respected nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young people across the West Kootenay Boundary Region who are impacted by substance use, mental health challenges, and other complex life circumstances. For over two decades, Freedom Quest has provided free, accessible, low-barrier, youth-centered services designed to meet young people where they are and walk alongside them as they build resilience, stability, and hope.
Grounded in values of compassion, equity, dignity, and non-judgment, Freedom Quest offers a wide spectrum of supports, including youth substance use counseling, concurrent disorders services, regional day treatment programming, mental health services, therapeutic recreation, and housing for children and youth in the government care system. The organization's voluntary participation model honors young people's autonomy and works collaboratively with families, caregivers, schools, community partners, and Indigenous service providers to strengthen long-term wellness.
Freedom Quest is recognized as a trusted leader in youth services and a driving force for positive change across the Kootenays. The regional reach is anchored by a head office in Castlegar, with additional locations in Nelson, Kaslo, Salmo, Trail, and Grand Forks.
Vision Statement: Freedom Quest envisions a future where all young people can dream boldly and create a vibrant, purpose-filled future for themselves.
Mission Statement: Through unwavering advocacy, guidance, and support, we stand beside young people and their families as they create their own paths.
What We're Looking For
The successful applicant will have proven competence in nonprofit management, financial oversight, contract negotiation, policy development, and human resources, along with demonstrated experience leading teams in multifaceted service environments. The new leader will foster a culture rooted in integrity, cultural safety, collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation.
Qualifications and Requirements
•A master's degree (preferred) or equivalent experience in Human Services, Administration, Leadership, or a related field
•A minimum of 5 years of experience in senior management within nonprofit, social service, or community-based organizations
•Demonstrated competence in agency administration, financial management, contract negotiation, project oversight, and human resources
•Experience managing operating budgets of $1M+, overseeing complex services, and working with multiple funders
•Strong understanding of provincial, regional, and community resources related to youth services
•A valid BC Class 4 driver's licence, reliable vehicle, and a clear Criminal Record Check
•ASIST certification is considered an asset
Compensation and Benefits
This position offers a meaningful balance of autonomy, flexibility, and impact:
•4-day work week (32 hours)
•$45/hour
•Full benefits package
•5% RRSP contribution
•Flexible hybrid work with the option for partial remote work\
To Apply
Application Deadline: January 2, 2026
Apply by clicking the button on the top of this page and submitting your cover letter and resume.
For questions, please contact Mia Gardiner at mia@kootenayrecruitment.ca
In the spirit of reconciliation, Kootenay Talent + Recruitment in partnership with Freedom Quest Youth Services Society acknowledges that we live, work, and learn on the unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples that have inhabited and maintained relationship with these lands since time immemorial. This includes the Sn̓ʕaýckstx (Sinixt), the Ktunaxa, the Syilx, and the Secwépemc Peoples.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace. We believe that diversity strengthens our organization and the communities we serve. We encourage and warmly welcome applications from Indigenous Peoples, members of racialized communities, 2SLGBTQIA+ folks, and persons with disabilities.