General Manager
Start Date: As soon as possible (position currently open)
Closing Date: Open until filled, applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Salary: $70,000–$80,000, flexible based on experience and qualifications.
About Us
Climb Yukon Association (CYA) is the official sport organization for climbing in the Yukon and a proud member of Sport Yukon and Climb Escalade Canada. As a registered non-profit, CYA is dedicated to growing the sport of climbing across the territory — from community engagement and youth programming to competition development, partnerships, and advocacy.
In 2025, CYA launched the Climb Yukon Collective, the territory’s first large-scale indoor climbing facility. The Collective is a vibrant, community-oriented gym that offers bouldering, top-rope and lead climbing, youth programs, and group events in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Located in Whitehorse on the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, the Collective features over 3,000 sq. ft. of climbing terrain in a modern facility overlooking the Yukon River. Together, the Association and the Collective work to strengthen Yukon’s climbing community and make climbing accessible to all.
Position Summary
The General Manager (GM) provides leadership and oversight for all aspects of the Climb Yukon Collective’s operations and strategic direction, while also serving as a key external representative of the Climb Yukon Association. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the GM is supported by the department leaders (Operations, Routesetting, Youth Team and Groups) to ensure operational excellence, financial sustainability, and an exceptional member and guest experience.
Beyond the day-to-day management of the gym, the GM is responsible for staff development, safety and risk management, and long-term planning. The role also carries an external mandate—building partnerships, securing sponsorships and grants, and strengthening Climb Yukon’s visibility and reputation throughout the territory and the wider climbing community.
Key Responsibilities:
The General Manager position reports to the board of directors on all aspects of the facility operations in accordance with the Association’s management policies and executive limitations.
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead and support department leaders (Operations, Routesetting, Youth Team and Groups) to achieve organizational goals and deliver exceptional experiences.
- Build a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team culture grounded in collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management across departments.
- Communicate clear objectives and ensure strong alignment between staff, management, and the Board.
Operations & Customer Experience
- Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and an outstanding customer experience.
- Maintain high standards of facility presentation, service quality, and risk management practices.
- Support managers in developing and implementing improvements that enhance operational consistency and customer satisfaction.
- Oversee facility maintenance and capital improvement planning in collaboration with managers and contractors.
Strategic & Financial Management
- Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board’s Executive Committee and department managers.
- Review and approve significant departmental expenditures to ensure alignment with strategic priorities and available resources.
- Monitor financial and operational performance indicators (revenue, membership, retention, safety) and report results to the Board.
- Lead financial and strategic planning to ensure the long-term sustainability of both the gym and the Association.
Community Engagement & Association Growth
- Represent the Association, to strengthen visibility and partnerships across the Yukon.
- Build and maintain relationships with schools, Indigenous organizations, recreation networks, and community partners to expand access to climbing.
- Lead funding and sponsorship initiatives, including developing new sponsorship opportunities, maintaining partner relationships, and managing grants and funding applications with the Board’s support.
- Represent the Association at public events, meetings, and conferences to promote the Climb Yukon community and the Association’s mission.
Compliance, Safety & Governance
- Ensure compliance with local regulations, insurance requirements, and internal policies.
- Maintain documentation for safety, certifications, and inspections.
- Provide regular operational and financial updates to the Board and support strategic governance discussions.
- Foster a proactive safety and accountability culture across the organization.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Minimum 3 years of experience in operations or general management, ideally within recreation or sport sectors.
- Proven ability to lead managers and teams, build strong culture, and foster accountability.
- Demonstrated skills in budgeting, financial oversight, and business operations management.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
- Interest in climbing and familiarity with climbing gym culture, safety, and community dynamics.
- Willingness to undergo a criminal record check.
- Valid Class 5 driver’s licence.
- Current Standard First Aid with CPR (or ability to obtain promptly).
Preferred:
- Experience working in a climbing gym.
- Familiarity with routesetting, climbing instruction, and risk management protocols.
- Proficiency with POS, scheduling, and CRM systems (e.g. : Rock Gym Pro or similar).
- Experience with funding applications, sponsorships, or partnership development.
- Understanding of non-profit governance and reporting practices.
- Established Yukon resident.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Free gym membership and discounts on gear and classes.
- Opportunities for professional development and climbing certifications.