Director of Hockey Operations
The North Vancouver Minor Hockey Association (NVMHA) is seeking a dedicated and passionate Director of Hockey Operations (DHO) who is responsible for the development, implementation and operation of hockey programming, coach development, and player skill development across all levels.
This position plays a key role in supporting the association’s mission of providing a fun, safe, and competitive hockey environment.
Duties and Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Oversight
● Maintain and strengthen the association’s development philosophy including a plan to support a culture of development for coaches, players, and parents.
● Support NVMHA policies, procedures, and guidelines; make recommendations for changes to Association policy to align with the development plan.
● Oversee the delivery and quality of all hockey programs and services, ensuring ongoing value to members.
Pre- and In-Season Implementation
● Design, implement, and oversee pre‑season and in‑season skill development programs for players of all ages and levels.
● Develop guidance and support for team-based and individual (pay-per-use) skill development for players and goalies.
● Organize and manage off-season camps and sessions (e.g., spring camps, skills development, prep camps).
● Plan and manage tryouts and evaluations, including soliciting evaluators, creating ice schedules, arranging for Combine personnel, and organizing the functionality of an electronic evaluation application (e.g., Team Genius).
Coach and Team Support
● Recruit, develop, and support Rep coaches pre-season and throughout the season.
● Lead and support coach development, including delivering workshops, mentorship, and providing feedback to foster continuous improvement.
● Support House (C) and U6-U9 Coordinators in program development.
● Act as a liaison between coaches, players, parents, and the Board Executive to ensure effective communication and resolution of hockey-related matters.
● Attend practices across divisions to observe and provide constructive feedback to coaching staff.
Leadership
● Work with the Ice Allocator to support scheduling and planning.
● Manage staffing for program delivery, including hiring contractors and recommending paid staff to the Board. This role has leadership responsibility and oversees/works closely with other contract staff to deliver hockey operations.
Administration & Other Duties
● Recommend an annual budget for hockey programming, adhere to it, and report on variances with action plans to rectify any discrepancies.
● Attend internal and external meetings, social events, tournaments, and community engagements, as required.
● Communicate with stakeholders (players, parents, volunteers, media, etc.) via email, social media, and other platforms.
Competencies
● Solid knowledge of minor hockey structure and best practices.
● Track record of outstanding customer service, leadership, and professionalism.
● A team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work collaboratively with volunteers, coaches, families, and board members.
● Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including public speaking and report preparation.
● Strong organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple initiatives simultaneously.
● Effective planning and time management; able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
● Strategic thinker who can build action plans and resolve issues collaboratively.
● Ability to manage diverse perspectives and gain cooperation.
● Commitment to fostering a positive hockey culture, player growth, and team spirit.
Qualifications
● Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., sport management, recreation, business) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
● Minimum 3 years’ experience in a related role, preferably in a not-for-profit or minor hockey setting, including paid staff and volunteer supervision.
● Minimum 3 years’ of proven leadership experience in hockey operations or program development.
Contract Details
● This is a yearly contract position, renewed annually with opportunity for multi-year terms.
● Reports directly to the NVMHA Board of Directors.
To Apply
Send your resume and cover letter outlining your hockey philosophy and relevant experience to: vicepresident@nvmha.com
