General Manager

Organization Overview

The Mel Jr. & Marty Zajac Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Vancouver, BC, dedicated to supporting children and young adults with complex medical needs through inclusive, life-changing experiences. Our primary program, Zajac Ranch, operates on 41 acres along Stave Lake in Mission, BC, delivering fully accessible summer medical camps and year-round rental programs. Revenue generated through group bookings and events directly supports our camp programs.

Reports To:

Wendy Zajac

Direct Reports

- Director, Camp Operations & Recreation

- Director of Facilities

- Chef/Kitchen Manager

- Head of Housekeeping

Position Summary:

The General Manager is responsible for the overall operational leadership and performance of Zajac Ranch , ensuring the site is safe, well-maintained, efficiently run, and delivering high-quality experiences for campers, guests, and partners.

This role oversees day-to-day Ranch operations, staff leadership, facilities and site standards, and on-site guest experience , while working closely with the Foundation’s leadership and sales team to support revenue growth and strategic alignment.

The General Manager is the primary on-site leader and decision-maker , accountable for ensuring that all aspects of Ranch operations are executed to a high standard.

Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership & Site Oversight

- Lead and oversee all day-to-day Ranch operations , including programming, rentals, hospitality services, and guest experience.

- Ensure the Ranch environment is consistently safe, clean, organized, and fully operational across all facilities, buildings, and outdoor spaces.

- Conduct regular site walk-throughs and inspections to ensure spaces are properly maintained, used appropriately, and secured (including lights, heating, windows, and general upkeep).

- Ensure seamless operations during all on-site user groups , proactively addressing issues and maintaining a high standard of service delivery.

- Serve as the primary on-site decision-maker , resolving operational issues in a timely and effective manner.

2. Staff Leadership, Supervision & Accountability

- Provide direct leadership and supervision to all department heads, ensuring clarity of roles, expectations, and performance standards.

- Conduct regular 1:1 check-ins with all direct reports, with key updates, priorities, follow-up items, and support needs tracked in Monday.com or another approved tracking system to ensure visibility, accountability, and consistency. The format of these check-ins may vary depending on the role and operational needs; however, all direct reports should receive regular support, guidance, and follow-up.

Review priorities, tasks, and deliverables

- Track progress and address challenges

- Ensure alignment with organizational goals

- Lead monthly department head meetings to coordinate operations, align priorities, and ensure cross-functional collaboration.

- Ensure all teams are working from clear workplans, task lists, or project boards (e.g., Monday.com) with visibility into progress and accountability.

- Oversee performance management, including goal setting, ongoing feedback, and performance reviews .

- Foster a culture of accountability, communication, and teamwork across the Ranch.

3. Facilities & Operational Standards

- Oversee the care, maintenance, and functionality of all Ranch facilities, equipment, and infrastructure in collaboration with the Facilities team.

- Ensure proactive planning for maintenance, repairs, and operational readiness .

- Maintain high standards for cleanliness, safety, and presentation across all spaces.

- Identify operational gaps and escalate capital needs appropriately (while not directly managing capital projects).

4. Sales Support & Revenue Growth

- Support the growth of Ranch revenue by working closely with the Foundation’s sales and marketing team and Executive Director by conducting the following:

Actively contribute to lead generation and relationship-building , including identifying opportunities and connecting the sales team with new prospects.

- Ensure strong on-site execution of rentals and events , supporting client satisfaction, retention, and repeat bookings.

- Provide operational insight to support pricing, offerings, and overall rental strategy.

5. Financial & Administrative Oversight

- Support the development and management of certain aspects of the Ranch’s operational budget , ensuring fiscal responsibility.

- Monitor operational expenses and contribute to cost-effective decision-making .

- Ensure appropriate use and tracking of resources, supplies, and services.

6. Risk Management & Compliance

- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements , including BC Camp Association (BCCA) standards.

- Lead emergency preparedness and response planning for the Ranch.

- Promote a culture of safety and accountability across all teams.

7. Organizational Alignment & Communication

- Maintain strong alignment between Ranch operations and the Foundation’s strategic priorities .

- Provide regular updates to the Executive Team on operations, staffing, risks, and performance .

- Ensure clear communication across teams and departments.

Success in This Role Looks Like

- A well-run, organized, and high-functioning Ranch environment

- Strong staff performance and accountability , with consistent communication and follow-through

- High-quality camper, guest, and rental experiences

- Clear visibility into tasks, priorities, and operational progress

- Effective collaboration between Ranch operations and the Foundation team

- Proactive identification and resolution of operational challenges

Qualifications & Experience:

- Minimum 8+ years of senior leadership experience in operations, hospitality, camp, or a related environment

- Proven experience managing teams, budgets, and complex operations

- Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills

- Experience in facility oversight and/or site operations

- Background in camp, outdoor education, or hospitality environments preferred

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

- Strong systems-thinking approach with experience using tools such as CRM systems or project management platforms

Additional Requirements:

- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

- Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Compensation & Benefits:

- Competitive salary based on experience

- Extended health and dental benefits

- On-site accommodation option available (if required)

- Paid vacation and time off

Schedule & Location:

- Full-time, primarily on-site in Mission, BC

- Some evenings and weekends required based on operational needs