Artistic Director

Join Our Team

Storytelling Toronto is seeking a part-time Artistic Director who combines creative leadership with strong organizational, financial, and grant-writing skills. The Artistic Director will lead the artistic vision of the organization, coordinate programming, and take a proactive role in grant writing and fundraising with support from the Arts Administrator, Treasurer, and Board. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative leader who brings both artistic insight and organizational know-how and who is passionate about building community through storytelling. Come and join us in shaping the next chapter of Storytelling Toronto.

About Storytelling Toronto

Founded in 1979, Storytelling Toronto is dedicated to celebrating and strengthening the art of oral storytelling through performances, workshops, community programs, and the annual Toronto International Storytelling Festival. Our mission is to connect people through stories that reflect the diversity and richness of Toronto's communities while supporting artists and fostering creativity across generations.

Job Title:
Artistic Director

Position Type:
Independent Contractor

Hours:
60 hours per month (approximately 15 hours per week) at $35/hour

Schedule:
Includes some evening and weekend hours throughout the year

Reports to:
Board/Chair of Storytelling Toronto (for performance review)

Location:
In-person at Storytelling Toronto studio, Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie Street, Toronto, ON

Duration:
8-month contract with a strong possibility for renewal (3-month probationary period applies)

Application:

Deadline:
Before 12:00 PM, Thursday, October 23, 2025

Email to:

Subject line:
First Name Last Name – Artistic Director

Please include the following 3 items in your application:

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume (PDF format)
3. One-page description of a successful project you managed and completed, including fundraising and grant reporting

All applications will be reviewed; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic and Strategic Leadership

• Lead the artistic direction and vision of Storytelling Toronto, ensuring alignment with our mission and values

• Oversee programming and events in collaboration with staff, artists, and community partners

• Contribute to long-term planning and help shape the organization's future direction with the Board

Grant Writing and Fund Development

• Prepare and submit grants and reports (with administrative support)

• Research new funding opportunities and maintain relationships with funders

• Ensure CADAC and other reporting requirements are met with support from the Arts Administrator

Programming and Production

• Provide artistic direction and mentorship for the Toronto International Storytelling Festival

• Plan, coordinate, and evaluate ongoing storytelling events and workshops

• Expand programming opportunities reflecting Toronto's diverse storytelling traditions

• Manage event contracts and budgets

Collaboration and Teamwork

• Work closely with the Arts Administrator on program delivery, communications, and reporting

• Collaborate with the Treasurer and Finance Committee on budgeting and oversight

• Supervise or support contractors and project leads, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace

Organization and Accountability

• Track timelines, budgets, and reporting deadlines for projects and grants

• Contribute to strong internal communication, clear documentation, and good governance

Ideal Candidate

The ideal Artistic Director is both artist and administrator, a creative leader who thrives in collaboration, communicates with clarity, and knows how to turn vision into action. They bring purpose, strong grant-writing, and organizational skills, and are eager to guide Storytelling Toronto into its next stage of artistic and community growth.

Key Strengths

• Artistic or curatorial experience in storytelling or related arts disciplines

• Strong writing and communication skills (especially for grants and reports)

• Excellent organizational and time management skills

• Collaborative spirit and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion