Opportunities with Red Deer D.R.I.V.E.

Red Deer D.R.I.V.E. Economic Development Association18–24 Month Independent Contract Opportunity | Red Deer, AlbertaAnticipated Full-Time Service CommitmentAbout Red Deer D.R.I.V.E.Red Deer D.R.I.V.E. Economic Development Association is an independent, business-led economic development organization focused on strengthening Red Deer and Central Alberta through investment attraction, business expansion, sector development and strategic community initiatives.DRIVE works closely with business leaders, the City of Red Deer, regional partners, post-secondary institutions, government and community organizations to identify and advance opportunities that support long-term economic growth.DRIVE is also building an AI-native economic development organization — designing its systems, research, communications and day-to-day work around the effective use of artificial intelligence from the outset.The OpportunityDRIVE is seeking an exceptionally organized and proactive Executive Assistant to the CEO to provide executive, governance and administrative coordination for the organization.This position also provides a unique pathway into economic development, with exposure to business leaders, investment opportunities, government, major community initiatives and regional economic-development projects.This is an 18–24 month independent contract opportunity with the potential for extension depending on organizational requirements, funding and performance.Key ResponsibilitiesCEO & Executive SupportManage the CEO's calendar, scheduling, correspondence and meeting coordination.Coordinate meetings involving business leaders, members, government representatives and community partners.Prepare meeting materials, correspondence, presentations and briefing packages.Track CEO commitments, follow-up items and deadlines.Organize travel, events and stakeholder meetings as required.Anticipate administrative requirements and help ensure the CEO's office operates efficiently. Board & Governance CoordinationCoordinate Board and committee meeting schedules, agendas and meeting packages.Maintain Board records and governance documentation.Prepare draft meeting minutes under the direction of the Board Secretary.Track Board motions, decisions and required follow-up.Coordinate Board member information, meeting logistics and governance-related correspondence. Organizational & Team SupportProvide administrative and coordination support to the Senior Director and other DRIVE initiatives where required.Coordinate meetings and administrative requirements for DRIVE's Strategic Pillar Impact Teams.Impact Teams bring together DRIVE members, business leaders and community partners to work on specific economic-development priorities and move strategic initiatives toward implementation.Maintain contact, membership and stakeholder information.Assist with member communications, events and engagement activities.Support preparation of reports, funding submissions and organizational materials.Maintain efficient digital filing and document-management systems. AI-Native AdministrationDRIVE intends to build AI into how the organization works rather than simply adding individual AI tools later.The Executive Assistant will help:identify opportunities to automate repetitive administrative work;use AI appropriately for meeting preparation, research, document organization and workflow management;improve internal information management and follow-up systems; andhelp establish efficient administrative practices for a growing organization. Previous AI expertise is not required, but curiosity and a willingness to learn are essential.QualificationsThe successful contractor should bring:A minimum of 3 years of executive assistant, senior administrative or project coordination experience.Strong organizational and time-management skills.Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.Advanced proficiency with Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Teams and Excel.Experience managing executive calendars, meetings and confidential information.Strong attention to detail and demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities.An interest in business, economic development and community growth.Curiosity about AI and emerging productivity technologies. Experience with a CRM, Board management system, project-management software or similar business systems is considered an asset.Post-secondary education in business administration, communications, office administration or a related discipline is an asset; demonstrated relevant experience will also be considered.Contract ArrangementThis is an 18–24 month independent contract engagement with an anticipated full-time service commitment.The successful contractor will provide services under an independent services agreement with defined responsibilities, deliverables and performance expectations. In-person presence in Red Deer will be required to support meetings, Board activities and events.Occasional early-morning, evening or community events may be required.Contract compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience and the final agreed scope of services.How to ApplyPlease submit:a cover letter outlining your interest in the opportunity;a current résumé; andrelevant information regarding your availability. Applications should be submitted to ceo@reddeerdrive.ca.Applications will begin being reviewed September 25, 2026 and will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.Early applications are encouraged.