Executive Director

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be the guiding management leader and co‑equal partner with the Artistic Director of Vertigo Theatre. The role is responsible for the overall success and growth of the organization, including its productions, operations, programs, facilities, financial sustainability and community impact. The Executive Director will lead strategic partnerships, administration, marketing, fund development, fiscal management, operations, and human resources while coordinating government relations at all levels and overseeing production budgets. This public‑facing role builds visibility and financial support for Vertigo Theatre in Calgary, Alberta and nationally. Strategy and Leadership Embody and provide positive and collaborative leadership to staff and board. Provide strategic vision and develop goals and objectives consistent with the mission of Vertigo Theatre. Serve as chief spokesperson and ambassador with a visible presence in the local, regional, and national theatre and arts scene. Develop an organizational culture that supports a cohesive, creative, and productive staff who deliver the highest quality customer experience and theatre excellence. Utilize a transparent leadership approach in collaboration with the Board of Directors, committees, community partners, sponsors, donors, staff, and other stakeholders. Demonstrate clear, concise, high‑quality written communication in all materials, including board reports, strategic updates, planning documents, and external communication. Inspire and engage stakeholders and the community to support Vertigo Theatre. Implement a strategy to broaden the programmatic model, grow the organization, increase engagement with community members and stakeholders, and capture the attention of new residents given Calgary’s changing demographics. Identify opportunities, plan, and implement programming to achieve collaborations and events that advance Vertigo Theatre. Management and Empowerment Partner with the Artistic Director to lead and supervise a diverse team—including creative, technical, administrative, front‑of‑house, maintenance, and volunteers—to ensure an exceptional experience for patrons, artists, students, and the community. Foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that attracts, develops, and retains top talent. Provide clear leadership and mentorship, empowering staff at all levels to contribute to organizational success. Establish accountability and maintain a safe, healthy, and supportive work environment. Drive innovation and continuous improvement through effective systems, resources, and technology aligned with industry best practices. Communicate priorities and guide teams in adapting plans to meet evolving needs. Ensure all human‑resource policies—including performance management and development—remain current and actively applied. Collaborate with the People Committee on the ongoing development and implementation of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access activities. Provide day‑to‑day financial management, ensuring transparency, integrity, and accuracy in all financial reporting. Lead and coordinate production budgets and expense management. Oversee budgeting, accounting, and payroll; manage audits, investments, and cash flow to meet operating needs. Provide financial reports and analysis at all board and finance committee meetings. Review all business contracts and agreements to ensure accurate preparation and execution. Maintain and strengthen internal controls, ensuring effective financial governance, risk mitigation, and compliance with not‑for‑profit standards. Act as primary liaison with the landlord on all facility‑related items, lease agreements, and other matters. Board Relations Develop and communicate key matters for the Board of Directors at regular meetings. Develop the annual strategic planning process with the Board, resulting in a comprehensive strategic plan and priorities. Develop and implement business and operational plans based on strategic direction. Nurture board involvement in donor development and harness support. Ensure accurate and timely reporting on finances, performance, and related administrative matters. Collaborate in identifying and recruiting prospects for board membership. Partner with board committees to develop and implement their respective goals and objectives. Develop fundraising strategies in collaboration with the Development Director and board committees. Collaborate with the Board and staff to develop short‑ and long‑term goals and strategies around contributed revenue. Co‑lead and actively participate in a capital fundraising campaign if appropriate. Maintain and increase strong ties with community decision makers, government leaders, and the arts community. Marketing and Audience Development Oversee development and use of a comprehensive, integrated, strategic marketing plan aligned with the artistic vision. Expand use of digital content and contemporary outreach strategies to increase customer and stakeholder engagement and market reach. Develop strategies to connect with the changing demographics of Calgary. Assess and adapt audience engagement plans based on the markets served and distinctive community features. Preferred Skill and Experience Requirements Minimum 7‑10 years of experience in a not‑for‑profit, arts, cultural, or mission‑driven organization. Post‑secondary education, including a bachelor’s degree in Arts, Business or relevant fields. Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative, co‑leadership model with a creative or artistic counterpart. Proven experience working closely with a Board of Directors, including strategic planning and reporting. Strong financial management experience, including budgeting, cash‑flow oversight, and financial reporting. Demonstrated success in fundraising and relationship development with donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders. Experience leading and developing diverse teams, including staff, contractors, artists, and volunteers. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to represent the organization publicly. Knowledge of not‑for‑profit governance, compliance, and best practices. Experience with government relations and public funding at municipal, provincial, and/or federal levels. Experience supporting or leading capital campaigns. Familiarity with audience development, digital marketing, and brand strategy. Commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in organizational leadership and practice. Please submit your application including resume and cover letter to info@setadvisorsinc.com. Only applicants moving forward in the process will be contacted. Seniority level Executive Employment type Full‑time Job function Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing Business Consulting and Services #J-18808-Ljbffr