Closing Date: August 14, 2026 (closes at 11:59 pm). Job Type: Permanent.

Department: Culture & Museum. Salary: $107,730.00 - $134,664.00. Hours per week: 35. Vacancies: 1.

Position Summary

The Senior Manager of Cultural Services and Development provides strategic leadership, direction, and oversight for the planning, development, delivery, and evaluation of municipal cultural programs, festivals, special events, community celebrations, and civic engagement initiatives. The role advances the municipality's cultural vision, supports the music city strategy, fosters community partnerships, enhances resident experiences, and ensures effective management of operating and capital resources. The Senior Manager leads a multidisciplinary team and works collaboratively with community organizations, businesses, tourism partners, elected officials, and other municipal departments to create vibrant, inclusive, and accessible community experiences.

Responsibilities

- Develop and implement long‑term strategies, master plans, and business plans for cultural services and community events.
- Lead initiatives that support Council's strategic priorities related to culture, placemaking, tourism, community engagement, and quality of life.
- Research emerging trends and recommend cutting-edge programming and service delivery approaches.
- Prepare reports, recommendations, and presentations for senior leadership and Council.
- Oversee the planning, development, delivery, and evaluation of municipal arts, heritage, cultural, and community programming.
- Implement cultural master plans and cultural development initiatives.
- Foster partnerships with local arts organizations, cultural groups, museums, heritage organizations, and community stakeholders.
- Promote diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and community participation in cultural activities.
- Secure and administer grants, sponsorships, and external funding opportunities.
- Ensure onsite lease agreements are upheld by all parties.
- Direct the planning and execution of municipal festivals, music concerts,



community celebrations, parades, civic ceremonies, and special events.
- Establish event strategies, policies, standards, and operational procedures.
- Implement event risk management, emergency planning, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Collaborate with tourism organizations, sponsors, vendors, community groups, and external agencies.
- Evaluate event performance and identify opportunities for improvement and growth.
- Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets.
- Monitor revenues, expenditures, sponsorship agreements, and grant funding.
- Identify opportunities for cost efficiencies, revenue generation, and service enhancements.
- Oversee procurement activities, contract administration, and vendor relationships.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations, residents, business associations, educational institutions, tourism agencies, BIA’s, and cultural groups.
- Represent the municipality at community meetings, events, committees, and industry conferences.
- Facilitate public consultation and community engagement initiatives.
- Respond to public inquiries, complaints, and emerging issues.

Qualifications

- Minimum bachelor’s degree (preferably in Cultural Studies, Arts Administration, Event Management, Recreation, Fine Arts, or related disciplines).
- Valid class "G" license.
- At least seven (7) years of experience in the management of culture and special events.
- Experience managing large‑scale events, operating budgets, community partnerships, and strategic initiatives.
- Municipal government experience strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated leadership experience in community/public relations, strong communication skills, strategic planning, and collaborative service delivery.
- Five (5) years of experience in solicitation of sponsors and donors for major events and activities.
- Supervisory responsibility: Cultural Development Coordinators (3), Culture Services Assistant (1), seasonal/part‑time staff.

Working Conditions

May require evening and weekend availability based on event schedules.

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📌 Senior Manager of Cultural Services and Development (Niagara Falls)
🏢 Niagara Falls
📍 Niagara Falls