Dawn Leonard
Calgary,AB
Summary
Accomplished leader with a proven track record, adept in strategic planning and community engagement. Excelled in optimizing operations, securing funding, and spearheading program leadership, resulting in enhanced organizational efficiency and stakeholder relations. Skilled in crisis management and human resources, demonstrating significant improvements in team performance and operational sustainability.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
PLAN Calgary
Calgary, AB
01.2019 - Current
- Worked closely with Board of Directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided families and staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Built relationships with granting bodies to secure funding and support for organization.
- Created promotional materials and provided insightful information to social media, websites and print media to educate public.
- Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to expand the organization''s reach and influence.
- Advocated for organization and company mission to raise awareness and support.
- Optimized operational workflows, reducing overhead costs and maximizing resource allocation.
Independent Consultant
Self Employed
Calgary AB
10.2017 - Current
- Conducted meetings with clients to determine project intent and organizational needs and requirements.
- Provide support to non-profits with program development, business planning, staffing assessments and preparation for accreditation.
- Compiled information and research and completed recommendation reports.
- Supported grant and funding proposals for new and on-going initiatives.
Chief Operating Officer
URSA
Calgary AB
10.2019 - 05.2024
- Oversaw Finance, Fund Development, Human Resources, Facilities and Vehicle Fleet to keep organization running smoothly while meeting business goals.
- Mentored team members by sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and providing constructive feedback; fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the organization.
- Guided teams through periods of significant change by providing clear communication and decisive leadership during pandemic.
- Led organization through the accreditation process with a new accrediting body, receiving a 3 year accreditation with accolades.
- Represented organization at external meetings and events to promote and build relationships with key stakeholders.
- Managed crisis response to minimize potential negative impacts on company.
Chief Development Officer
Boys And Girls Club Of Calgary
Calgary, AB
06.2015 - 10.2017
- Provided leadership and support to all Business Operation departments including Finance, Human Resources, Business Development, Marketing, Facilities, Technology and Administration.
- In collaboration with Senior Leadership, responsible for the development and implementation of the strategic and business plans.
- Monitored department goals and agency budgets to ensure strategic activities are being accomplished and the organization can remain responsive to emerging needs.
- Developed and retained talented team through training and strong employee engagement.
- Provided leadership to fund development strategy, including communication and marketing materials, annual reports, newsletters and correspondence with donors.
- Provide support during critical situations and ensure agency risks are identified and reduced or mitigated.
Director Education, Employment and Aboriginal
Boys And Girls Clubs Of Calgary
Calgary AB
04.2011 - 06.2015
- Developed and introduced new programs into agency, growing new service portfolio to 13 programs.
- Responsible for employee management, recruitment, training and on-going development for portfolio,
- Managed and evolved partnerships and collaborations to further agency's mission including initiatives such as Thrive by Five Change Lab, City Year, All in for Youth, Full Circle and Alberta Family Wellness Initiative.
- Provided day to day support to Managers and staff to ensure programs were reflective of community needs.
- Oversaw risk management plans for agency, including systems to identify and mitigate risks and updates to policies based on changing requirements.
- Reviewed and managed budgets for programs and assisted with donor stewardship.
Program Manager
Boys And Girls Clubs Of Calgary
Calgary AB
09.2004 - 04.2011
- Managed and supervised administrative and daily program operations in various portfolios including youth shelters, groups homes, youth centers, treatment program, employment initiatives and independent living program.
- Supported staff with case management and individualized client planning.
- Completed outcome reports for funders and donors and implemented quality enhancements to strengthen programs.
- Ensured programs were operating according to accreditation and licensing standards.
Education
Trauma Informed Investigative Interviewing
Griffith University
Australia 06.2022
Leadership Development
Korn Ferry Leadership Architect Certification
06.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Calgary
Calgary, AB06.1990
Skills
- Community Engagement
- Program Management
- Strategic Planning
- Project Management
- Operations Management
- Budgeting and financial management
- Staff Management
- Relationship Building
- Program Leadership
- Compliance and regulations
- Stakeholder Relations
- Marketing
Volunteer Experience
Board Member and Governance Committee Member
Sinneave Family Foundation
June 2017 - present
Board Member and Nominating Committee Member
Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network
June 2015 - June 2017
Timeline
Chief Operating Officer
URSA
10.2019 - 05.2024
Executive Director
PLAN Calgary
01.2019 - Current
Independent Consultant
Self Employed
10.2017 - Current
Chief Development Officer
Boys And Girls Club Of Calgary
06.2015 - 10.2017
Director Education, Employment and Aboriginal
Boys And Girls Clubs Of Calgary
04.2011 - 06.2015
Program Manager
Boys And Girls Clubs Of Calgary
09.2004 - 04.2011
Trauma Informed Investigative Interviewing
Griffith University
Leadership Development
Korn Ferry Leadership Architect Certification
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Calgary