Chief Executive Officer

The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) is the professional association that represents Doctors of Optometry in Canada. The Association, founded in 1941 and formally incorporated in 1948, currently consists of members from each of the ten provincial optometric associations. Today, the CAO represents over 6000 Doctors of Optometry (OD) in Canada, and as well as ~2000 OD Student members and Certified Canadian Optometric Assistants (CCOAs). CAO's primary mission is to function as the national voice of optometry and optometrists, providing leadership and support to its members to enhance the delivery of healthy eyes and clear vision for all Canadians. Its mission also includes enhancing the quality, availability and accessibility of eye, vision, and related health care, promoting the independent and ethical decision-making of its members, and assisting optometrists in practicing successfully in accordance with the highest standards of patient care. Due to the impending retirement of our incumbent CEO, the CAO is currently recruiting for the position of 

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

We are searching for a proven strategic and operational leader who is progressive and dynamic to lead our respected and mature organization. Reporting to and collaborating with the President of an engaged CAO Council, the CEO is responsible and accountable for the Association’s overall performance through the development (with the Council) and implementation of the strategic plan, achievement of corporate goals, and effective development and stewardship of corporate resources. The Council will look to the CEO for sound business and strategic direction, effective governance support, and strong organizational performance. You will bring thoughtful guidance in strengthening the identity, position, and voice of the optometry profession in Canada, ensuring optometrists are prepared to practice in an evolving health care system that rapidly changes, and achieving effective engagement with members and key stakeholders. The CEO develops strong relationships with provincial affiliated associations and regulatory bodies, facilitates the delivery of a solid member value proposition, and implements communications strategies to raise awareness of the optometry profession with current and potential members, the general public and all its stakeholders.

As the ideal candidate, you bring an established and progressive record in a senior leadership role in a complex, multi-stakeholder, and multi-issue environment. You are a confident and persuasive communicator, who leads with integrity, conviction, and character, and will have demonstrated abilities in collaboration and advocacy with diverse stakeholders, government, and sector partners. You build consensus and motivate people by fostering engagement and empowerment. Candidates will bring superior leadership and governance expertise, along with a successful record in proactive management and government relations. Experience working in leadership roles in the not-for-profit or national association/NGO sector, ideally related to healthcare, would be an asset. The CAO desires a leader who possesses superior interpersonal and diplomatic skills and who will be an effective and professional advocate for the optometric profession in all respects, operating collegially and enthusiastically at all levels across the country. Proficiency in both official languages is desirable. We invite you to visit the website at www.opto.ca to learn more about CAO.