Director, HR & Volunteer Engagement

About us
The Volunteer Well is a Canadian non-profit dedicated to building a more inclusive and compassionate society by directly connecting volunteers (“givers”) with individuals in need (“receivers”). Through our innovative Generosity Hub (currently hosted via a Facebook Private Group Marketplace), impactful programs and events, business and philanthropic partnerships, and advocacy for generosity as a force for social change, we empower individuals, strengthen families, and unite communities — especially women, seniors, newcomers, low-income, and marginalized groups. By breaking down barriers to support, we promote a culture of kindness, justice, and human connection.

Role Overview
The Director of Human Resources & Volunteer Engagement is a governance and strategic leadership role responsible for both oversight and operational support in human resources and volunteer management. This role ensures HR practices align with The Volunteer Well’s mission, values, and legal requirements while actively supporting the CEO in executing HR operations. In addition, the Director plays a key role in the sustainability of the charity by contributing to fundraising efforts through either direct giving or leveraging connections to raise funds.
While providing strategic direction, the Director of HR does not directly manage HR team members but serves as an advisor and resource for the CEO and volunteer HR coordinators.

Key Responsibilities
Governance & Strategic Oversight
●Chair the HR Committee and lead efforts to align HR policies with nonprofit best practices.
●Provide guidance on HR policies, compliance, volunteer management, and legal requirements.
●Collaborate with the CEO to refine HR strategies and support volunteer engagement.
●Ensure that HR structures are scalable, inclusive, and support the long-term sustainability of the charity.

Operational HR & Volunteer Engagement Support
●Assist in developing HR workflows, volunteer recruitment strategies, and onboarding processes.
●Work with the CEO to identify key HR needs and provide hands-on support when necessary.
●Facilitate HR best practices training for board members and volunteers.
●Support the HR team with urgent priorities, helping resolve challenges related to recruitment, retention, and conflict resolution.
●Strengthen volunteer engagement strategies, ensuring a fulfilling and supportive experience for volunteers.

Collaboration & Role Boundaries
●Acts in an advisory capacity, offering strategic input without overriding the CEO’s authority in HR execution.
●Does not directly instruct or manage volunteer HR coordinators but ensures they are supported with proper policies and resources.
●Communicates and coordinates with the CEO before making major recommendations related to HR operations or volunteer engagement.

Policy & Process Development
●Review and refine HR policies, ensuring compliance and efficiency in volunteer management.
●Develop strategies for improving volunteer retention and recognition.
●Ensure that HR governance practices align with legal requirements and nonprofit best practices.
●Assist in the development of conflict resolution policies and volunteer satisfaction measures.

Fundraising & Sustainability Commitment
As a board member, the Director of HR & Volunteer Engagement supports the financial sustainability of the charity by contributing to fundraising efforts in ways that align with their skills and networks. This may include contributing financially, identifying funding opportunities, building relationships with potential donors, or assisting with fundraising initiatives.

Time Commitment & Expectation
•Term: Director of Marketing, Communications & Public Relations is a minimum of a 3 year term, with the option for renewal for a further term upon expiry. 
•Monthly and Annual Commitment: At least 8 hours per month devoted to board level meetings, strategic consultations, and advisory support, committee consultations, as well as additional strategic sessions with CEO/ teams as necessary.
•Board Meeting Participation: Attend at least 4 out of 6 virtual board meetings per year, as well as additional strategic sessions as necessary.
•Active Engagement: Remain actively involved with both strategic planning and oversight of communications and marketing initiatives, without being involved in day-to-day operations.

Lived experience and Diversity Statement
The Volunteer Well is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, women, newcomers, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and other equity-deserving groups. We recognize that lived experience is a valuable asset and will be considered where applicable to the role.