After eight fabulous years at the helm of Community Futures South Kootenay (CFSK), I will be stepping down from my role as Executive Director in early 2026. This decision comes from a desire to spend more quality time with my partner and family and—when possible—to travel the world. I will also continue to be available as a consultant for special projects and strategic planning in the Kootenays and beyond. I expect to remain in my role until March 2026, and our Board will be launching a recruitment process shortly.

Over the coming months, my focus will be on completing CFSK’s new strategic plan and supporting the onboarding of a new Executive Director. Our programs, partnerships, and services will continue uninterrupted during the transition. I am committed to ensuring a smooth handover and leaving the CFSK team in strong, capable hands. I will also remain active on committees such as the Kootenay Rockies Tourism Destination Management Committee.

Community Futures is truly bittersweet. This has been one of the most fulfilling roles of my career. When I first joined CFSK, I imagined staying for two years—but our team, and the impact we make on the local economy and the entrepreneurs and businesses who drive it, made this work deeply meaningful. It has been a privilege to contribute to this region’s growth and resilience.

Community Futures is a first-class organization. Its collaborative and supportive culture is second to none. Skilled, nimble, and people-focused, the CF network has been an inspiring community to be part of. Our CFSK branch is well-positioned for the future, with strong staff leadership and a clear strategic direction.

I want to sincerely thank our CFSK staff and Board, our partners, and my CFBC network colleagues for making this chapter such a memorable one. Your encouragement, support, and good humour have meant the world to me. I am profoundly grateful for the friendships formed, the lessons learned, and the professional and personal growth these years have given me. I especially want to acknowledge our dedicated staff, whose passion and professionalism are the foundation of CFSK’s success. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together and confident in the organization’s path ahead.

I remain only a text or phone call away. This is not a goodbye—just a turn in the road on our shared journey.

Sincerely,

Erik Kalacis

M. 250.368.7553

CFSK Executive Director Career Opportunity – Posting & Job Description:http://communityfutures.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Executive-Director-Career-Opportunity-Posting-Job-Description-Dec.-16-2025.pdf