About the Academy Theatre Since opening its doors in 1893, the Academy Theatre has been a cultural landmark in the City of Kawartha Lakes. Welcoming more than 20,000 patrons annually, the Academy presents professional touring artists, community productions, rentals and cultural events that enrich our community while preserving an important part of its heritage. As the Theatre enters its next chapter, we are seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead the organization by combining strategic thinking, business leadership, operational excellence, entrepreneurial drive and a genuine passion for the performing arts.

The General

Manager is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Academy Theatre. Working within the governance framework established by the Board of Directors, and in partnership with the Board and its Standing Committees, the General Manager leads development of the Strategic Plan in partnership with the Board, and develops programming strategy, annual business plan, marketing strategy, operating and capital budgets, and key operating priorities for Board consideration and approval.

The General

Manager leads the organization and is accountable for successfully executing Board-approved plans while delivering exceptional programming, outstanding patron experiences, financial sustainability and measurable organizational results. The successful candidate will demonstrate both the passion and the ability to lead an organization, not simply manage one.

The Academy

Theatre operates through a partnership between the Board of Directors, its Standing Committees and Management. The Board governs by establishing strategic direction, approving major plans and policies, allocating resources and measuring organizational performance.

Standing

Committees provide expertise, advice, challenge and support.

The General

Manager develops recommendations for Board consideration, leads the organization, executes Board-approved plans and is accountable for results. Provide visible,



inspiring leadership for the Academy Theatre. Foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.

Build strong relationships with patrons, artists, volunteers, donors, sponsors, community partners and municipal stakeholders. Represent the Academy Theatre as a respected community leader and ambassador. Work alongside the Academy Theatre’s standing committees dedicated to Strategy, Programming, Business Development (Sponsorship and Government Relations), Finance and Facilities, and Marketing, while owning the responsibilities specified below.

Develop the Theatre’s Strategic Plan, annual business plan and organizational priorities. Identify opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability, community impact and financial performance. Execute approved strategies and report regularly on organizational performance.

Identify emerging opportunities, risks and trends, recommending appropriate action.

Programming

Develop, recommend and execute the Theatre’s annual programming strategy. Build a season that balances artistic excellence, community relevance and financial sustainability. Evaluate programming opportunities using market, audience and financial analysis. Monitor attendance, patron satisfaction and financial performance, using post-event reviews to continuously strengthen future programming.

Business Development

Lead marketing, audience development and community engagement initiatives. Build strategic partnerships throughout the community. Identify entrepreneurial opportunities that strengthen the Theatre’s long-term sustainability and impact.





Monitor financial and operational performance against approved plans. Prepare regular forecasts and performance reports. Recommend operational improvements and business initiatives. Ensure sound financial stewardship, effective risk management and efficient operations.

Facilities

Develop long-term maintenance and capital improvement plans. Oversee maintenance of the Theatre and its technical infrastructure. Ensure compliance with health, safety and regulatory requirements. Protect the Theatre’s heritage while ensuring it remains operationally ready for future generations. We are seeking either an experienced General Manager or an emerging leader who can clearly demonstrate, through their accomplishments, that they are ready to successfully lead the Academy Theatre.

Previous General

Manager experience is preferred but not mandatory. Candidates who have built the breadth of leadership, strategic, operational and financial experience to demonstrate they are ready to successfully step into a General Manager role are encouraged to apply. Proven leadership experience managing teams and organizations.

Experience developing and executing strategic and business plans. Strong business, financial and operational management skills. Success growing audiences, customers, revenues, partnerships or organizational impact. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Experience in performing arts, entertainment, hospitality, tourism, festivals, nonprofit leadership or other customer-focused industries is considered an asset, but is not essential. A genuine passion for the performing arts and community engagement is essential.

Performance Will Be Evaluated Through Outcomes

Including Achievement of the Academy Theatre Strategic Plan. Programming success, including attendance, patron satisfaction and financial performance. Growth in community partnerships. Safe, skilled and efficient operation of the Theatre.

📌 ACADEMY THEATRE GENERAL MANAGER (Lindsay)
🏢 Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT)
📍 Lindsay