Manager, Day Services

Manager, Day Services

Department: Programs

Reports To: Senior Manager, Day Services

Supervises: Neurorehabilitation Facilitators

Employment Type: Full-time, Non-Union

General Accountability:

The Manager, Day Services is responsible for the day-to-day operational management, direct supervision of staff, and effective implementation of therapeutic and recreational programs within Mind Forward Brain Injury Services' Day Services in Peel, Halton and Central West. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, client-centred activities that promote cognitive rehabilitation, skill development, social engagement, and community participation for individuals living with acquired brain injury. The Manager will lead a team of frontline staff, ensuring program quality, client safety, and alignment with the overall strategic direction set by the Senior Manager, Day Services, with a strong emphasis on recreation therapy, brain injury rehabilitation principles, and clinical excellence.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Kinesiology, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, or a related health/rehabilitation field.
• Minimum of 3 years of direct experience working with individuals with acquired brain injury in a rehabilitation setting, Previous experience in a supervisory or leadership role within a day program or similar group-based therapeutic or recreational setting is preferred
• Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic and recreational programs for individuals with cognitive, physical, and psychosocial challenges.
• Strong understanding of brain injury rehabilitation principles and the role of recreation therapy in recovery and community integration.
• Knowledge of relevant provincial legislation, health and safety standards, and best practices in client rehabilitation and care.
• Current professional registration/certification (e.g., Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - CTRS, if applicable) is highly preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Implementation and Oversight:
• Oversee the daily operation and scheduling of Day Services programs and activities.
• Ensure the effective delivery of a diverse range of therapeutic, recreational, and educational programs, consistent with client rehabilitation goals and the principles of recreation therapy.
• Monitor client participation, engagement, and progress within the day program setting.
• Manage program resources, including equipment, supplies, and facility usage, to ensure optimal program delivery.
• Staff Supervision & Leadership:
• Provide direct supervision, guidance, and mentorship to Neurorehabilitation Facilitators.
• Conduct performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and identify professional development opportunities for direct reports.
• Participate in the recruitment, onboarding, and training of new Day Services staff.
• Cultivate a positive, collaborative, and client-centred team environment that prioritizes staff well-being and professional growth.
• Client-Centred Care & Rehabilitation:
• Ensure individualized client needs are met through appropriate program selection and adaptation, with a focus on maximizing functional independence and quality of life.
• Collaborate with clients, families, and interdisciplinary team members to support the development and implementation of rehabilitation plans and goals.
• Champion the integration of recreation therapy principles and evidence-based brain injury rehabilitation strategies into all program activities.
• Address client concerns, manage challenging behaviours, and ensure appropriate crisis response within the day program.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance:
• Implement and monitor program quality standards, ensuring adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Support the collection and accurate documentation of client data, program outcomes, and incident reports.
• Participate in program evaluation activities and contribute to continuous quality improvement initiatives.
• Ensure a safe and accessible environment for clients and staff within the Day Services facility.
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Work closely with the Senior Manager, Day Services, providing regular updates on program operations, challenges, and successes.
• Collaborate with other program managers and internal departments to ensure seamless transitions and integrated client care.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, families, and external stakeholders as required.

Skills & Abilities:

• Leadership & Supervision: Proven ability to supervise, motivate, and develop a team of frontline staff.
• Program Planning & Facilitation: Expertise in developing, adapting, and leading engaging and therapeutic group activities.
• Clinical Application: Ability to apply recreation therapy and brain injury rehabilitation principles to diverse client needs.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, families, staff, and external partners.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Capacity to address operational challenges and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Organizational & Time Management: Strong ability to manage multiple tasks, schedules, and priorities effectively.
• Client-Centred Approach: Demonstrated commitment to empowering clients and promoting their independence.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to evolving client needs and program requirements.

Core Competencies:

• Program Execution: Ensures the effective and efficient daily delivery of Day Services programs.
• Team Development: Builds and supports a skilled and cohesive program delivery team.
• Client Engagement: Creates a positive and stimulating environment that maximizes client participation and therapeutic benefit.
• Quality Focus: Committed to maintaining high standards of program quality and client safety.
• Initiative: Proactively identifies opportunities for program improvement and problem resolution.

Administrative and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and timely client records and documentation.
• Prepare and submit required statistical and administrative information.
• Participate in staff, clinical, and management meetings.

Relations with Team Members

• Criticize constructively (questioning appropriately).
• Seek assistance with decision-making when necessary.
• Communicate openly.
• Participate in the supervision process by identifying professional development needs.
• Keep the Senior Manager, Day Services, Chief Program Officer, and staff teams informed.

Additional Requirements:

• May require evening and/or weekend work
• On-call phone rotation responsibilities
• Must be physically able to perform the necessary duties of the job
• Certify as a Safe Management Trainer
• Participation in committees as required/appropriate

Hours of Work:

· Forty hours per week, subject to additional hours and schedule changes dictated by client/staff needs.

· Work flexible hours as dictated by client/staff needs, subject to changes in schedule and additional hours worked from time to time.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Flexible schedule
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Work from home

Application question(s):

• Are you legally eligible to work for the organization you are applying to without the need of a sponsorship

Experience:

• relevant: 3 years (required)
• Leadership: 1 year (required)

Location:

• Mississauga, ON (L5B) (preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-08-06
Expected start date: 2025-08-11