VANESSA SIM
Edmonton
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven senior executive with extensive expertise in high-level policy implementation and a proven track record of enhancing productivity and communication to support vulnerable populations. Committed to delivering exceptional client care while exemplifying strong non-profit stewardship and leadership. Passionate about fostering team development and cultivating a collaborative work environment. Eager to leverage over 15 years of senior office management and directorship experience within the human services sector to drive impactful change.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Executive Director
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2018 - Current
- Oversaw all internal programs, services, and departments in collaboration with the Executive Director, aligning operations with The Salvation Army’s mission, vision and strategic objectives
- Directed strategic planning and change management initiatives, developing long- and short-term goals across financial, operational, and service domains
- Managed a $22M annual budget, leading asset management and resource allocation strategies to support organizational sustainability
- Championed a high-performance culture rooted in cooperation, ethical leadership, and altruism across a multidisciplinary team of 300+ staff
- Led visioning, research, development, and successful funding acquisition for two innovative programs, guiding them from concept to full implementation
- Facilitated annual budgeting processes, integrating strategic initiatives to optimize program delivery and organizational growth
- Supported communication and human relations challenges through proactive engagement with front-line staff, managers, and directors
- Ensured compliance with regulatory, contractual, and accreditation standards, maintaining awareness of sector trends and emerging issues
- Advanced program excellence through research, external consultation, and outcome evaluation to support ethical, evidence-based service delivery
Director of Programs
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Delivered timely, values-driven program services
- Ensured compliance with internal and external funding requirements across all service areas
- Assessed and enhanced infrastructure, frameworks, and processes to support best practices across six transitional housing sites
- Oversaw trauma-informed recovery and housing support programs for vulnerable populations in Edmonton
- Reported to the Executive Director, supporting governance and strategic networking initiatives
- Collaborated with on-site and external teams to plan, develop, and monitor new programming and change management efforts
- Coordinated with the Director of Operations to manage facility maintenance
- Participated in union negotiations, ensuring equitable outcomes
- Established and managed program budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with funding guidelines
- Directed employee relations decisions including hiring, disciplinary actions, and terminations
- Served as an active member of the Executive Committee, Management Team, and Community Counsel
- Mentored Program Managers to foster leadership growth and long-term organizational success
Residential Program Manager
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Improved strategic development and innovative planning for an affordable housing program serving vulnerable men in Edmonton
- Managed a team of 22 staff members through hiring, performance reviews, and terminations
- Oversaw resource deployment in a 148-bed transitional facility
- Balanced a $1.4 million program budget to maintain performance and income levels
- Built and strengthened partnerships with inner-city community associations and individuals
- Ensured access to residential and emergency accommodation services for those in need
- Assessed and improved program policies and procedures; led the Case Management team
- Reported operational and change management updates to the Executive Director, including statistical and evaluative data
- Actively participated as a member of the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Committee
Executive Assistant
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Strengthened administrative support processes based on Executive team needs
- Researched and compiled materials for meetings, inquiries, and special events
- Managed internal and external communications for the Executive Director
- Collaborated on major projects and cases
- Ensured protection and security of confidential program, client, and officer files
- Scheduled meetings, prepared agendas, and recorded minutes
- Independently updated ARC Policy & Procedure Manuals
- Liaised with internal stakeholders to maintain accessible, up-to-date operational information
- Provided flexible support to team members with presentations, brochures, invitations, and marketing materials
- Coordinated over 75 communications daily, including email, phone, and in-person queries
- Applied comprehensive knowledge of office protocols
- Maintained a team-focused approach
- Chaired the ARC Staff Social Committee to promote morale and employee relationships
Office Manager
The Park Church
01.2003 - 01.2012
- Streamlined in-house administrative support to assist senior team effectively
- Established office standards and managed calendars, appointments, and parishioner correspondence
- Coordinated senior staff travel: flights, lodging, conferences, and created detailed itineraries
- Liaised with Board of Directors
- Designed marketing materials using Microsoft Suite and Adobe InDesign
- Enhanced personal communication skills and built strong rapport with Church and local community members
Education
Mediation/Conflict Resolution -
NAIT
Edmonton, AB02-2026
Certified Leadership Coach -
Essential Impact
08-2022
Executive Stream -
Arrow Leadership
02.2020
HMS Diploma -
Northwest Bible College
01.1992
Skills
Strategic Planning
Budget Management
Team Leadership
Faith-Based Service
Change Management
Program Evaluation
Public Speaking
Conflict Resolution
Staff Development
Community Engagement
Regulatory Compliance
Visionary Leadership
Timeline
Assistant Executive Director
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2018 - Current
Director of Programs
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2016 - 01.2018
Residential Program Manager
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2014 - 01.2016
Executive Assistant
Edmonton Centre of Hope (The Salvation Army)
01.2012 - 01.2013
Office Manager
The Park Church
01.2003 - 01.2012
Mediation/Conflict Resolution -
NAIT
Certified Leadership Coach -
Essential Impact
Executive Stream -
Arrow Leadership
HMS Diploma -
Northwest Bible College
Training
- Emotional Intelligence
- Addictions Recovery and Harm Reduction
- CPR/ First Aid Certification
- Motivational Interviewing Certification
- Community Reinforcement Approach
- Indigenous Awareness and Sensitivity
- Trauma Informed Care Certification
- Trauma and PTSD response in Refugees
- Respect in the Workplace and Cultural Awareness Training
- Diversity Inclusion and Belonging
- Union Collective Bargaining Panel
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Further employment history and references available at your request.
Similar Profiles
Martin DaviesMartin Davies
IT Support at The Salvation Army Edmonton Centre of HopeIT Support at The Salvation Army Edmonton Centre of Hope
Paige SlaghtPaige Slaght
Social Support Worker at Salvation Army Centre of HopeSocial Support Worker at Salvation Army Centre of Hope
Nicole LoomesNicole Loomes
Shelter Support Worker at The Salvation Army Centre of HopeShelter Support Worker at The Salvation Army Centre of Hope
Kirsten PittsKirsten Pitts
Grounds Maintainer at Royal Mayfair Golf ClubGrounds Maintainer at Royal Mayfair Golf Club
Didier Coffi GBETIEDidier Coffi GBETIE
Réalisateur associé technicien de production télévision at CBC / Radio-CanadaRéalisateur associé technicien de production télévision at CBC / Radio-Canada