The Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre is seeking a dynamic and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization’s strategic, financial, and operational activities while advancing its role as a vibrant cultural hub in the community.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides leadership across programming, financial management, community engagement, and venue operations. This role is responsible for ensuring the theatre delivers high-quality performing arts programming, including the Spotlight Presentation Series, while supporting touring productions, rentals, and community events.

The ideal candidate is both an arts leader and a strategic thinker, able to balance artistic vision with strong organizational management and community partnership building.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

● Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of the theatre’s activities.

● Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors on governance, policy development, and long-term planning.

● Lead and support staff across administration, marketing, technical production, and front-of-house operations.

● Foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.

● Lead planning and development of the Spotlight Presentation Series, identifying high-quality touring productions and artists.

● Build relationships with artists, agents, promoters, and touring companies.

● Evaluate programming opportunities based on artistic merit, audience interest, and financial sustainability.

● Monitor industry trends and audience preferences to inform programming decisions.

● Develop and manage the theatre’s annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board.

● Ensure responsible financial stewardship and compliance with nonprofit financial practices.





● Monitor revenue and expenses related to presenting series, rentals, and programming.

● Identify opportunities to diversify revenue streams including ticket sales, sponsorships, grants, and partnerships.

● Lead fundraising initiatives including sponsorship development, donor cultivation, and grant applications.

● Build relationships with community partners, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.

● Work with the Board to develop long-term funding strategies.

● Serve as a key public representative and advocate for the theatre within the community.

● Build partnerships with local arts organizations, schools, cultural groups, and community stakeholders.

● Support initiatives that strengthen Vernon’s cultural ecosystem and expand audience engagement.

● Oversee management and scheduling of the theatre facility including rentals, touring productions, and community events.

● Ensure the venue operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with relevant regulations.

● Collaborate with technical staff to maintain high production standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

● Post-secondary education in arts administration, business, theatre management, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

● Demonstrated leadership experience in arts management, nonprofit leadership, or cultural programming.

● Experience with performing arts presenting, touring productions,



or venue management is strongly preferred.

● Strong leadership and strategic planning abilities.

● Experience managing budgets and financial operations.

● Ability to build strong relationships with artists, promoters, sponsors, and community partners.

● Excellent communication and public engagement skills.

● Understanding of performing arts programming and audience development.

● Ability to balance artistic vision with financial sustainability.

● Full-time position based in Vernon, British Columbia.

● Evening and weekend work required during performances and special events.

● Occasional travel may be required for industry showcases and conferences.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their experience and interest in the role.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for showing interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre is committed to fostering an accessible, protected, inclusive, and diverse environment. We value and celebrate the unique experiences of every individual and encourage all qualified candidates to apply. If you require support or accommodation during the application process, please let us know and we'll be happy to assist.

Land Acknowledgement: The Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre Society (VDPAC) respectfully acknowledges that we live, work and play in the northern part of the unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan People and that many of the descendants of the Syilx/Suqnaquinx still live here.

Pay: $85,000.00-$105,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Executive Director (Vernon)
🏢 Vernon u0026 District Performing Arts Centre Society
📍 Vernon