2 October 2024

CFLPA Executive Director Job Posting

The Canadian Football League Players Association (the CFLPA) was established in 1965 with the goal of establishing fair and reasonable working conditions for the players in the Canadian Football League (the CFL). The CFLPA office is based in Mississauga, Ontario and is led by a five-member Executive Board of Directors. Each of the nine member teams elects two player representatives who vote to elect members of the Executive Board. The Executive Board is supported by an administration team, advisory board, and additional consultants, led by the Executive director. The CFLPA represents every player in the nine-team league (approximately 540 players) and negotiates the collective bargaining agreement on behalf of its membership.

The CFLPA is seeking a new Executive Director. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and leads a team of staff administrators. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall day-to-day management of the CFLPA, including implementing Board policy to align with the mission of the CFLPA, handling grievances and other issues with the CFL, and developing partnership opportunities for the players. The Executive Director is the spokesperson for the CFLPA and will also establish, maintain, and grow relationships with the players and player representatives, the Board, staff, the CFL, professional advisors, sponsors, and alumni. Additionally, the Executive Director attends all CFL meetings on behalf of the CFLPA and serves as the primary spokesperson with media, government stakeholders, and other player associations and professional leagues.

The successful candidate joins the CFLPA with deep experience working within the Canadian labour union environment, preferably with a legal or business background in the sports or entertainment sectors. The candidate should have experience with collective bargaining, grievance processes, and acting as a spokesperson for a high-profile not-for-profit organization. Experience working in professional sports and/or a background in team sports and an understanding of football, is strongly preferred. The successful candidate requires advanced business acumen and natural leadership skills with a demonstrated capacity to engage stakeholders and collaborate effectively with the Board, staff, and membership.

Interested and qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their resume and cover letter in confidence to CFLPA@alexanderwhitehead.com by December 1, 2024.

We thank all applicants for their interest but only those considered for an interview will be contacted. Finalist candidates will undergo third-party psychometric testing, professional reference checks, and a comprehensive criminal, academic, and professional accreditation verification process.

Compensation Salary Range is $150,000 to $200,000 plus comprehensive benefits. Final salary will be based on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

Location and Travel Requirements: The Executive Director can be based in any Canadian community and can work in a remote location environment. The successful candidate is expected to be comfortable working in a virtual and dynamic office environment and will be provided with the necessary technology and support to effectively execute their duties regardless of location.

The Executive Director is required to travel frequently – up to 35 percent depending on their place of residence – to maintain profile with the membership.

The CFLPA provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local law. In addition, the CFLPA welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.

Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Alexander Whitehead Executive Search is a boutique executive search firm based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Since our inception in 2013, Alexander Whitehead has completed over 500 executive and senior management search assignments for private and public sector organizations across North America.

2 October 2024

CFLPA launches search for new Executive Director 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

October 2, 2024

CFLPA launches search for new Executive Director 

Mississauga, ON. - The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) has officially launched its search for its new Executive Director.  

“The CFLPA Executive Director position is an important part of our team,” said CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian. “We are looking for someone who is fearless and motivated, collaborative and passionate about people and sport. I’d like to encourage all qualified candidates, who are serious about leading growth and creating positive change and advocacy on behalf of others, to apply.”  

Led by Canadian-based executive search firm Alexander Whitehead Executive Search, the CFLPA is seeking an experienced senior leader and collaborator with a powerful vision who has a strong track record working within or with intimate understanding of the Canadian labour union environment, including strategic planning experience leading collective negotiations.  

The ideal candidate will possess strong business and legal acumen, the ability to build and cultivate relationships across industries and will have relevant experience in the sports and/or entertainment sector. 

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and leads a team of office staff administrators and other support staff. The CFLPA represents more than 540 members in the Canadian Football League. 

Qualified candidates should inquire for details and/or send their resume and cover letter to Alexander Whitehead at cflpa@alexanderwhitehead.com before December 1, 2024. 

About Alexander Whitehead 

Alexander Whitehead Executive Search was established in 2013 and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. We specialize in executive placements in the public and private sectors and work with enterprises operating regionally, nationally, and internationally. 

About the CFLPA 

The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. Find us online at cflpa.com. 

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For more information: Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office, b.heisler@cflpa.com  (647)-453-4848

29 August 2024

CFLPA Academy Profile | Larry Dean with Brett Lauther

Join us for an in-depth conversation with #CFL standout Larry Dean, as he sits down with Brett Lauther to discuss his remarkable journey through the world of football. In this captivating interview, Larry opens up about his illustrious career on the field, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from his time as a professional athlete all the way to his new role in football operations with the #Saskatchewan #Roughriders!

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive content and interviews!

4 June 2024

CFLPA Academy | Shift Group


Many of us have long seen our sport as our primary identity, making the shift to new careers post-playing a bit uncomfortable and intimidating. That's why we're excited about teaming up with Shift Group, aiming to make this transition more seamless and less stressful. It provides an excellent avenue for retired athletes seeking a career with unlimited earning potential that fulfills our competitive nature.

Shift Group also helps with generally learning the key skills of motivating and influencing others to take action. Key for any job hunt in any profession, and a critical part of almost any role you land!

So, if you're looking for ways to enhance your sales skills or explore career placement opportunities, this could be an ideal opportunity for you!

30 April 2024

CFLPA Announces New Alliance with Private Housing Network 

MISSISSAUGA, ON - The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) announced today a new partnership with the Private Housing Network. The Private Housing Network is a coalition of over 1,000 professional real estate agents catering to 330 regions throughout North America. In addition to being available to facilitate all CFLPA members in acquisitions and sales of properties, the Private Housing Network will also help educate CFLPA members about all things real estate. 

As part of this partnership, the Private Housing Network will extend its support to members through real estate educational initiatives and mentorship programs. Their assistance will include various real estate areas, such as home or apartment procurement or leasing, divestment of primary and secondary residences, and residential, commercial, or land investment opportunities. 

“Our members can be in a unique position when faced with finding housing solutions across the country during their playing careers,” said CFLPA Executive Director Brian Ramsay.. “Working with The Private Housing Network and KW Sports & Entertainment allows CFLPA members assistance when facing these types of challenges, letting them focus on their time to their work on the field.”  

“Through this strategic alliance with The Private Housing Network and KW Sports+Entertainment Division, CFLPA members will gain access to a wealth of tailored real estate solutions, educational programs, and personalized support to navigate the complexities of the real estate landscape with confidence and clarity,” said Brittney Ezell, Director of the Private Housing network. “We commend the CFLPA for its forward-thinking approach in prioritizing the long-term success and prosperity of its members. Together, we are poised to revolutionize the way CFLPA members engage with real estate, empowering them to make informed decisions and seize opportunities for financial growth and stability”. 

About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA.  

  

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CFLPA Media Contact:   
Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com | 1-800-616-6865  

18 April 2024

CFLPA Officially Joins Canadian Labour Congress

Touchdown! CFLPA joins Canadian Labour Congress

OTTAWA – The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) celebrates today’s affiliation of the Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA). The CFLPA is joining 49 national and international unions already affiliated with the CLC, representing over three million workers.

"This is a huge win and we’re thrilled to welcome the CFLPA to our team,” said Bea Bruske, President of the CLC. "This shows how the labour movement in Canada is constantly growing and diversifying, and our collective future is brighter with the addition of the CFLPA. There are over three million CLC affiliated workers who now stand in support of the CFLPA in their ongoing fight for respect, fair treatment, and equity for CFL players".

The Canadian Labour Congress is the largest labour organization in Canada. The CFLPA applied to join the CLC and today was voted in as an affiliate by its delegates, and per the organization’s constitution. The CFLPA and its approximately 650 members who work and support communities across Canada, will join a powerful group of unions actively working together to improve working conditions and support workers’ rights everywhere.

“The CFLPA has a proud and successful 59-year history ofadvocating for fair and safeworking conditions for our members and using our influence to helpimprove the lives of all workers across Canada,” said Brian Ramsay, Executive Director of the CFLPA. “We’re very excited to formally affiliate to the CLC and bring our perspectiveand experience to the broader labour movement in Canada”.

"We are excited and proud to join the CLC team and the three million affiliated workers in Canada and internationally,” said Solomon Elimimian, CFLPA President. “Just like on the playing field, there is strength in numbers and this alignment makes us all stronger in our ongoing work toward ensuring fair and respectful working conditions”.

The CFLPA is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. The CLC represents over three million workers in virtually all sectors, industries, occupations, and regions of the country, and over half a million retirees.

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Media Inquiries:

CFLPA Media Contact: 
Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com | 1-800-616-6865 

CLC Media Contact: 
Chantal St-Denis, CLC Communications| cstdenis@clcctc.ca | 613-355-1962

27 March 2024

Media Release – Training Division Scholarships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE 

CFLPA Academy Announces Eight Recipients of 2024 Training Division Firefighting Scholarship 

Mississauga, ON – As the Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) Academy continues to strive to bridge the gap between football and life beyond the field, eight CFLPA members have been awarded full scholarships through Training Division to complete their Firefighter certification training. These scholarships mark a significant stride in the Academy’s goals of empowering members to seek the resources available to them regarding life after football. Beyond these essay-based scholarships valued at over $7,000.00 USD each, Training Division also provides any interested CFLPA Academy member, and their family and immediate entry-scholarship valued at $1,000.00 USD. 

Since forming a partnership in 2016, the CFLPA Academy and Training Division have been providing opportunities to CFLPA members to pursue a career in Firefighting.  

Training Division is an emergency services training company that was developed by firefighters forfirefighters, fire recruits, and Emergency Medical Service personnel. With the demanding schedules that professional athletes face,Training Division understands the difficulty of trying to obtain new skills that transcend football. A group of firefighters with many years of fire education experience have developed these programs with those problems in mind. 

The eight CFLPA Academy members receiving this year’s Training Division scholarship are as follows: 

  • Noah Curtis 
  • Avery Ellis 
  • Dylan Giffen 
  • Brendan Gillanders 
  • Maleki Harris 
  • Brayden Lenius 
  • Mercy Maston 
  • Dominique Rhymes 

 “Since partnering with Training Division, our Academy has seen more than thirty current and former CFLPA members complete certifications to become firefighters” said Brian Ramsay, CFLPA Executive Director. He continued, “Many of those individuals are now serving their communities on the frontlines in Canada and around North America and planned for their transition either during or shortly after their football careers. We applaud this 2024 class of deserving members preparing to join their former teammates and peers in service once their playing careers are behind them.”  

The recipients of these scholarships embody the dedication and resilience that characterize CFLPA members and future Firefighters. Here are five insightful quotes from the recipients: 

  1. Dylan Giffen (Offensive Line, Toronto Argonauts): 

 “I’m extremely grateful to the CFLPA and Training Division for this scholarship.  Becoming a firefighter has always been a goal of mine and this scholarship will help bring me one step closer to that goal!” 

  1. Avery Ellis (Defensive Line, Montreal Alouettes) 

“Receiving the 2024 Training Division Scholarship is not just an honour; it represents a pivotal step toward fulfilling my aspiration to serve and protect our community as a firefighter. This scholarship is not just a financial boon, it’s a lifeline, enabling me to pursue a profession dedicated to service and heroism while upholding the profound responsibility of caring for my family.”  

  1. Dominique Rhymes (Wide Receiver, Ottawa Redblacks) 

“I’m honoured to receive the scholarship to the Training Division. I’m super excited to be given this opportunity which will help me pursue my passion to become a firefighter after my football career.” 

  1. Noah Curtis (Defensive Line, Edmonton Elks) 

“I am grateful and proud to be a member of the Canadian Football League and the goals it has allowed me to accomplish; playing professional football, and having the opportunity to become a firefighter and serve my community. Firefighting is similar to playing football because it creates a sense of brotherhood and family that is unique to the profession.” 

  1. Brayden Lenius (Wide Receiver, Saskatchewan Roughriders) 

“I am incredibly honored and grateful to receive this scholarship from Training Division. This opportunity not only fuels my passion for firefighting but also reaffirms my commitment to serving and protecting my community. I am eager to participate in the training program and make the most of this experience.” 

6. Brendan Gillanders (Running Back, Ottawa Redblacks)

"I would just like to thank the PA and Training Division for the ongoing partnership and for providing this opportunity. I am very excited to take advantage of the scholarship and gain the certifications, knowledge, and practical experience working towards a rewarding career and serving the community as a firefighter."

The CFLPA Academy is excited to provide these 8 members with an amazing opportunity to pursue a career in Firefighting. 

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About the CFLPA Academy: The CFLPA Academy provides support to CFLPA members and their families, offering education, wellness, and employment resources. ​The Academy offers access to various educational resources, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, microcredentials, tailored offerings, and applied streams such as diplomas, degrees, and certificates. ​ The Academy also provides certifications in areas like fire fighting and first response and sales training. ​The Academy has also partnered with external organizations to provide additional support and opportunities for CFLPA members. ​ The academy's services are available to CFLPA members, partners/spouses, and family members as well as recently retired members as they transition away from their playing careers. 

CFLPA Media Contact:   

Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com | 1-800-616-6865 

21 March 2024

2024 CFL Mentorship in partnership with the CFLPA Academy

As part of the Canadian Football League’s third annual Mentorship Program in partnership with the CFLPA Academy, seven players joined the league office for a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the business behind professional football.

Read more

1 March 2024

CFLPA Elects New Board of Directors During Annual General Meeting

Mississauga, ON – During it’s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), which opened today, the Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) held elections and is proud to announce its new Board of Directors. The CFLPA Board of Directors is elected biannually by CFLPA Player Representatives.
 
“On behalf of the entire CFLPA membership, I would like to express my gratitude to our entire Board of Directors who helped lead the continued growth and progress of our association,” said Solomon Elimimian, the re-elected CFLPA President. “I would also like to thank the membership for showing their confidence in me, as President. I am confident that our newly elected board will work tirelessly together to ensure the continued prosperity and success of the CFL Players' Association."
 
The new CFL Players’ Association Board of Directors:
 
President                           Solomon Elimimian
1st Vice President              Brett Lauther
2nd Vice President           Jake Thomas
3rd Vice President            David Mackie
Treasurer                           Adam Bighill
Executive Director             Brian Ramsay
 
The CFLPA would like to thank its outgoing Board members including Henoc Muamba, Ryan King & Peter Dyakowski.


About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA. 

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CFLPA Media Contact: 
Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com | 1-800-616-6865 

1 February 2024

Multi-Sport Players’ Association Virtual Career Summit

Yesterday, the Canadian Football League Players' Association (CFLPA) was proud to participate in the inaugural Multi-Sport Players Association Virtual Career Summit. Along with the ten other professional sports unions that joined, we would like to extend our gratitude and give a big thanks to the National Basketball Players' Association (NBPA) for organizing this exceptional event.

Yesterday's summit connected over 60 professional athletes from various leagues and Players' Associations, to promote conversation and collaboration regarding post sport career development. Discussions centered around different pathways to achieve success and fulfillment in life after playing professionally.

Built with engaging and interactive panel discussions and networking sessions, yesterday's summit provided a valuable platform for both current and former athletes to interact with leaders and experts in business and professional development. We also want to thank CFLPA members David Mackie and Joshua Coker, who joined on camera to help demonstrate networking techniques alongside actors/comedians, Mark Sutton and Sandy Jobin-Bevans. We are grateful to the NBPA for their effort in arranging this remarkable event and we look forward to future collaborative initiatives that aim to empower our members in their career journeys.

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