Executive Director

Spark Commercialization and Innovation Centre (Spark Centre) is looking for a dynamic Executive Director to lead the Regional Innovation Centre & drive economic growth in Durham Region and Eastern Ontario Spark Centre is a designated Regional Innovation Centre, a Canada Startup Visa Designate, and a not-for-profit business incubator dedicated to building and scaling sustainable, globally competitive companies. Our mission is to propel economic growth in Eastern Ontario by cultivating a vibrant innovation ecosystem that nurtures collaboration and empowers businesses to flourish. Located in the Durham Region, Spark Centre provides a comprehensive range of services, including business advisory support, specialized programming, flexible office spaces, and day-to-day operational assistance for both local and international entrepreneurs. In addition to our non-profit mandate, Spark Centre operates a for-profit, wholly owned subsidiary, Synergy Lab, which provides specialized market entry services for international entrepreneurs looking to establish their presence in Eastern Ontario. Spark Centre’s business model is multifaceted, first and foremost supporting entrepreneurial companies that wish to grow in Eastern Ontario—particularly in Durham Region. To fulfill this mandate, Spark Centre offers a range of support services, including advisory support, co-working facilities, and opportunities to connect with Angel investors or venture capitalists to access funding. Over our 10+ years of operation, we have earned the trust of funders, partners, and the wider community, establishing ourselves as a preferred partner for businesses and a key contributor to regional economic development initiatives. Funding for Spark Centre comes from multiple sources, including Federal, Provincial, Regional, and local governments; private sector contributions; and consortium initiatives such as the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). The organization has robust governance, management, financial, operational, human resources, and IT capabilities, ensuring effective program execution and strong reporting mechanisms to maintain stakeholder support. Spark Centre is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors composed of leaders from business, community, and government sectors, and our leadership team, led by the Executive Director, brings together diverse expertise to drive the organization forward. To expand the number of innovative companies choosing to scale in the region, Spark Centre’s flagship Startup Visa (SUV) program supports international entrepreneurs at every step of establishing and growing their ventures in Canada. This program helps position startups for long-term global success while driving economic impact in Eastern Ontario. Further amplifying its regional impact, Spark Centre spearheaded the development of the Eastern Ontario Innovation Corridor (EOIC), a multi-district innovation network spanning Durham Region to the Montreal border. This initiative fosters collaboration and economic growth, positioning Eastern Ontario as a leading hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. For more information about Spark Centre and our services, please visit our website at https : / / sparkcentre.org. The Opportunity The Executive Director will provide strategic vision and operational leadership for Spark Centre, ensuring its sustainability and growth while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Eastern Ontario. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Leader will oversee all aspects of strategy, operations, program development, stakeholder relationships, and financial performance. This role requires a dynamic and skilled leader with experience growing a not-for-profit organization, managing government-funded programs, building strong industry, government, and community partnerships and driving economic development in Eastern Ontario. The Executive Director will drive innovation, secure funding, manage the operations team, engage in business development activities as needed and cultivate key partnerships to support local and internationally landed entrepreneurs and regional economic development. Additionally, the Executive Director will motivate a high-performing team, drive program excellence, and position the organization for success. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Leadership & Vision Define and execute a shared vision and long-term strategy for Spark Centre, ensuring alignment with regional innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives. Develop scalable programs and differentiated service offerings to support local and internationally landed entrepreneurs in the Eastern Ontario region including the SUV program and Canadian Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs. Engage in local and regional business development to drive sustainable growth. Drive growth, profitability, and sustainability by diversifying funding sources and managing financial risk. Operational Excellence Oversee efficient and effective operations, including program delivery, IT infrastructure, marketing and financial management. Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of key client programs and services. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the organization. Government Relations & Funding Build and maintain relationships with federal, provincial, and municipal government stakeholders to secure and manage funded programs. Ensure compliance with government funding agreements and reporting requirements. Advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship through active engagement with government and industry stakeholders. Partnership Development Cultivate strategic alliances with industry leaders, academic institutions, community partners, and funding agencies. Collaborate with regional partners to promote economic development and entrepreneurship. Represent Spark Centre as a key advocate and thought leader in the innovation ecosystem. Industry Relations Actively engage with local industry leaders to understand their needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth. Develop programs and initiatives that leverage Spark Centre’s resources to support industry-led innovation and competitiveness. Foster collaboration between local businesses, startups, and innovation partners to drive commercialization and technology adoption. Work closely with key economic development organizations to align Spark Centre’s programs with regional industry priorities. Financial Management Oversee budgeting and financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Drive revenue generation through partnerships, new programs, and business development opportunities. Monitor financial performance, cash flow, and overall organizational sustainability. Board Governance & Accountability Work with the Board of Directors to establish governance policies, strategic priorities, and organizational objectives. Report regularly to the Board on strategic and financial performance, including key metrics and milestones. EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS Core Requirements 8+ years of experience in a senior leadership role, such as Executive Director, President, or CEO, or other senior leadership roles in the public or private sector. Proven ability to scale organizations, secure funding, and drive revenue growth. Strong knowledge of the innovation ecosystem and business development strategies. Experience managing government-funded programs and working with a Board of Directors. Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related field is preferred. Key Skills & Capabilities Visionary leadership with the ability to drive organizational growth and transformation. Strong financial acumen and experience managing complex budgets and revenue streams. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and relationship-building skills. Expertise in leading and motivating high-performing teams in a dynamic environment. Problem-solving, decision-making, and operational leadership abilities. Preferred Experience Background in accelerator, incubator, or entrepreneurial ecosystem leadership. Experience securing and managing government funding programs. Familiarity with Eastern Ontario’s economic development landscape. Multi-lingual (French-English-Arabic-Portuguese-Farsi) is an asset. WORK ENVIRONMENT We are a diverse and inclusive organization with a fast-paced, results-driven culture. The Executive Director will work with a motivated team dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship. This hybrid role is based in Oshawa, with opportunities for regional and international travel to support programs and partnerships. To Apply If you are interested in applying for this role, please send a cover letter and resume to Hari Sambasivam, Board Chair and Chair of Spark Centre Board Nominating Committee, at [email protected] , to the attention of Spark Centres Nominating Committee, on or before by March 14, 2025. Questions Should you have any questions, please email [email protected]. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, we will contact only those selected for an interview.