We believe in the power of community to drive success
The wide-reaching impact of AWE is made possible by the dedication of our employees, contractors, partners, speakers and advisors. Only with the skill and wisdom of this diverse team plus their commitment to the development, expansion and promotion of women entrepreneurs, are we able advance our purpose.
Do you share the belief that our communities and economies are stronger when women are full and equal participants in entrepreneurship? We invite you to review the details below and join our team in one of the many unique roles available through AWE.
Chief Executive Officer Opportunity with Alberta Women Entrepreneurs
Alberta Women Entrepreneurs is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Executive Officer to lead our organization into its next chapter of impact and growth. This is an exciting opportunity to guide one of Alberta’s most recognized organizations dedicated to advancing women’s entrepreneurship through access to capital, business advising, training, and mentorship.
Since 1995, AWE has supported thousands of women across Alberta in starting and scaling their businesses. Today, we are at a pivotal moment in our journey, expanding our reach and services to meet the evolving needs of entrepreneurs. The new CEO will play a critical role in shaping this future, working closely with our Board of Directors and a dedicated internal team to strengthen AWE’s influence, sustainability, and service delivery.
The CEO will be responsible for the overall strategic and operational leadership of the organization. This includes developing and executing a new strategic plan, building and maintaining high-impact partnerships, representing AWE in policy and advocacy work, and guiding the team through a period of transformation and opportunity. AWE is committed to equity and inclusion, and the successful candidate will champion these values across all areas of the organization.
Key priorities for the role include:
Expanding support services to better serve women entrepreneurs in underserved and emerging sectors, and extending programming to new regions in Alberta and beyond
Strengthening AWE’s role in policy and advocacy to ensure more inclusive and equitable access to business supports
Ensuring long-term sustainability through diversified funding, including grants, partnerships, and earned revenue
Leading stakeholder engagement efforts to deepen AWE’s connections with government, industry, and the entrepreneurship ecosystem
The successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit, public, or mission-driven organizations, preferably with a background in economic development, entrepreneurship, or gender equity. They will bring strong strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and financial management skills, and be comfortable leading within a complex and changing environment. Experience working with or reporting to a board of directors is an asset, as is the ability to lead organizational transformation and growth.
The CEO must be based in Alberta, with a preference for candidates located in Calgary or Edmonton.
To learn more about this opportunity, please download the full position profile below.
Would you like to collaborate for greater impact? Connect with us for future opportunities.
Even if AWE is not actively hiring for positions within our core or extended team, we are always excited to connect with members of our community who are interested in working with us.
Our sponsors help create an equitable business environment, empowering women to overcome financial barriers and achieve their entrepreneurial goals. By becoming a sponsor, you contribute to the development of a diverse and inclusive economy where women can thrive and lead. Support AWE to make a meaningful impact on the future of women in business.
By collaborating with other like-minded organizations, we can amplify our impact, creating a more equitable and inclusive business environment. Together, we provide vital resources, mentorship, and the access to capital that drives economic growth and innovation, benefiting communities and industries alike. Join us in making a greater impact and championing the future of women in business.
Share Your Wisdom: Workshops, Advising and Guest Speakers
AWE is actively seeking individuals who are motivated to share their professional knowledge, experience and expertise with Alberta entrepreneurs.
Important Details
AWE training sessions are targeted towards small to medium groups (10-50 attendees) and can be delivered in Alberta either in person or virtually.
If you are interested in being added to our Workshop, Speaker or Advisor list please detail your qualifications, relevant experience, what you think you can offer to AWE clients, and a description of the proposed training, including learning objectives.
Please also include the contact information for two professional references and a link to a video of you speaking on that topic for 2-5 minutes.
Please Note: Only those selected for an interview will be contacted to discuss their proposal further.
Suggestions for Popular Speaking Topics
We are looking for topics intended for entrepreneurs who have been operating their small or medium businesses for at least 1-2 years:
Technology solutions and digital optimization
Human resource management
Financial management
Marketing and digital advertising
Industry-specific topics related to business growth