Position Summary

Reporting to the Board of Directors, and working in a shared leadership model with the Artistic Director, the Executive Director provides strategic, operational, and organizational leadership for Kittiwake Ballet.

The Executive Director is responsible for the organization’s overall administration, financial sustainability, fundraising, marketing, and operations. Working closely with the Artistic Director, the Executive Director ensures that Kittiwake’s artistic vision is supported through strong organizational management and meaningful community relationships.

This role requires a dynamic leader who can strengthen the organization’s capacity, build partnerships, and help guide Kittiwake Ballet through its continued growth as a professional dance company.

Because Kittiwake Ballet is a performing arts organization, the role will occasionally require evening and weekend work to support performances, events, and community activities, with flexibility provided in scheduling where possible.

This is a full-time permanent position based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Collaborate with the Artistic Director to support and advance the artistic vision of Kittiwake Ballet

• Work with the Board of Directors on strategic planning and organizational development

• Support a collaborative culture between the artistic and administrative functions of the company

Operations and Administration

• Provide oversight of day-to-day operations

• Supervise administrative staff and contractors

• Oversee production logistics, touring coordination, and project management

• Ensure effective organizational policies and systems are in place

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage organizational budgets

• Monitor financial performance and reporting

• Work with the Board Treasurer and external financial professionals as required

Fundraising and Revenue Development

• Lead fundraising initiatives and sponsorship development

• Prepare and oversee grant applications and reporting

• Develop new revenue streams and partnerships

Marketing and Audience Development

• Oversee marketing, communications, and promotion of Kittiwake’s programming

• Support audience development and community engagement initiatives#

• Represent Kittiwake publicly in media and promotional activities

Community and Sector Engagement

• Build relationships with artists, funders, partners, and stakeholders locally, provincially, and nationally

• Support education, outreach, and community engagement programs

• Represent Kittiwake within the broader arts and cultural community

Desired Competencies

Kittiwake Ballet welcomes applications from individuals with a passion for the performing arts and strong organizational leadership skills. While candidates may come from a variety of professional backgrounds, the following competencies are considered valuable:

• Demonstrated leadership experience within arts, cultural, or non-profit organizations

• Experience working with or reporting to a volunteer Board of Directors

• Strong fundraising, sponsorship, and grant writing experience

• Financial management and budgeting expertise

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment

• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail

• Ability to work collaboratively within a shared leadership model

• Experience with marketing, public relations, and audience development

• Innovative thinking and the ability to identify new opportunities for organizational growth

• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the arts

Education and Experience

Advanced education in arts administration, business administration, nonprofit management, performing arts, cultural management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.

Compensation

The salary range for this position will be competitive and reflective of experience. Specific figures will be discussed during the selection process to ensure a fair and attractive offer is extended.

In addition to a competitive salary, Kittiwake Dance Theatre offers the following benefits:

• Generous paid annual leave, scaled according to experience, to support work-life balance.

• A relocation allowance for candidates moving to the area, ensuring a smooth transition to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

• An opportunity to opt into a health insurance plan, with premiums partially subsidized by Kittiwake.

This comprehensive compensation package is designed to attract and retain the highest caliber of leadership, reflecting our dedication to excellence and the well-being of our staff.