Operations and Development Manager
The Yukon Quest International Association (Canada) (YQIA) is seeking a motivated and community-minded Operations and Development Manager to support the organization through an exciting phase of renewal as we prepare for the 2027 Yukon Quest.
This role is central to rebuilding momentum after a quiet year away from regular race activities, strengthening relationships with mushers, sponsors, communities, and fans, and ensuring the effective and efficient day-to-day operations of the YQIA office. The ideal candidate is organized, creative, and energized by outreach, marketing, and community engagement.
Reporting to the YQIA Board of Directors, this position focuses on marketing and media, fundraising and sponsorship, community and stakeholder relationships, and organizational administration.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Marketing, Media & Communications:
- Lead and execute a comprehensive marketing and social media strategy to rebuild visibility and excitement for the Yukon Quest
- Produce and promote race-related materials, announcements, newsletters, and public communications
- Maintain consistent branding and messaging across platforms
- Fundraising, Sponsorship & Revenue Development
- Re-engage legacy sponsors, donors, and members; develop strategies to secure new support
- Oversee sponsorship programs, funding proposals, donor relations, and stewardship
- Design and execute fundraising initiatives, including public events, campaigns, and ticketed events
- Support the Board in identifying and cultivating new revenue opportunities
- Organizational Operations & Administration
- Manage day-to-day office operations and administrative tasks
- Assist with volunteer recruitment, coordination, and communications
- Support Board governance through documentation, record-keeping, and monthly reporting
- Assist with membership recruitment, renewals, and communication; maintain accurate membership lists
- Merchandise & Financial Administration
- Oversee merchandise sales, inventory, ordering, reconciling, displays, and online/retail operations
- Routine banking activities when needed;
- Conduct regular inventory audits and maintain accurate stock records
- Race Preparation and Event Management
- Engage vendors and suppliers in preparing race materials such as banners, sponsor signs, race annuals, etc
- Coordinate race sign ups and distribution of musher information packages, including distribution of forms, rules, and race information
- Coordinate pre-race selection and contracting of race personnel
QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and meet tight deadlines
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written, verbal, and digital)
- Experience in marketing, social media management, or public outreach is a strong asset
- Basic financial understanding
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with volunteers and board members
- Keen attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to create, draft, and edit formal correspondence and public‑facing materials
- Preference given to those with experience in administration, nonprofit work, event coordination, or similar roles
- Experience in operations management is an asset
- Familiarity with sled dog racing or northern community events is an asset but not required
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), Adobe tools, and POS systems (Helcim or similar)
- Experience using Meta Business Suite for Facebook and Instagram, X, and YouTube for content scheduling, analytics, and audience engagement
