Executive Director - Cecilia Concerts Society

Cecilia Concerts: Executive Director

Posting Period: November 9, 2026-November 27, 2026

The Opportunity

For nearly forty years Cecilia Concerts has been a cornerstone of cultural life in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We present chamber music of the highest caliber in settings that are welcoming, bilingual, and accessible. We believe that live music has the power to connect, to uplift, and to transform, and we strive to make those experiences available to everyone in our community. Some of the world’s most acclaimed classical musicians perform here, making global excellence accessible to local audiences.

Position Purpose

The Executive Director will be a strategic leader, during a time of unprecedented expansion. Working closely alongside the Artistic Director, the role will center around representing, promoting, and championing Cecilia Concerts according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors.

Position Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Participates with the Board of Directors in developing and implementing a vision and strategic plan to guide the organization (as an ex officio or non-voting member);
• Provides leadership, direction and oversight to the ongoing development and implementation of Cecilia Concerts programs and initiatives;
• Oversees operational plans to achieve key performance targets;
• Acts as a professional advisor to the Board of Director on all aspects of the organization's activities;
• Fosters effective teamwork between the Board, the Artistic Director, staff and volunteers;
• Acts as a spokesperson for the organization;
• Represents the organization at community activities to enhance the organization's community profile.

Operational planning and management

• Develops plans, incorporating goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of the organization;
• Ensures that the operation of the organization meets the expectations of its clients, Board and Funders;
• Oversees the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the organization;
• Drafts policies for the approval of the Board and prepares procedures to implement the organizational policies; reviews existing policies on an annual basis and makes recommendations to the Board as appropriate;
• Ensures that personnel, client, donor and volunteer files are securely stored, and privacy/confidentiality is maintained.

Program planning and management

• Oversees and executes the planning, implementation and evaluation of the organization's programs and services, together with the Artistic Director;
• Ensures that the programs and services offered by the organization contributes to the organization's mission and reflects the priorities of the Board;
• Monitors delivery of the programs and services to maintain or improve quality;
• Oversees the planning, implementation, execution and evaluation of special projects;
• Establishes a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations;
• Conducts performance management process for staff/volunteers which includes monitoring and conducting employee performance reviews.

Financial planning and management

• Works with Finance Committee to prepare a comprehensive budget;
• Works with the Board to secure adequate funding for the operation;
• Research funding sources, oversee the development of fund-raising plans and write funding proposals to increase the funds of the organization;
• Participates in fundraising as appropriate;
• Approves expenditures within the authority delegated by the Board;
• Ensures sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures;
• Administers the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitors the monthly cash flow;
• Provides the Board/Treasurer with regular reports on the revenues and expenditures;
• Ensures that the organization complies with all legislation governing taxation and withholding payments.

Community relations/advocacy

• Communicates with stakeholders to keep them informed of the work of the organization and to identify changes in the community;
• Establish good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with community groups, funders, politicians, and other organizations to help achieve the goals of the organization.

Risk management

• Identify and evaluate the risks to the organization including people, property, finances, goodwill, and image, implementing measures to control risks;
• Ensure that the Board of Directors and the organization carry appropriate and adequate insurance coverage;
• Ensure that the Board and staff understand the terms, conditions and limitations of the insurance coverage.

Key Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in a discipline pertinent to the role or an approved combination of education and experience;
• Progressive experience with 10+ years in mid-level and senior administrative positions, leading change initiatives, ideally in arts organizations ;
• Excellent strategic advice and ability to drive results;
• Excellent ability to problem solve and make timely and well-informed decisions
• Sound knowledge of leadership and management principles as they relate to non-profit/ voluntary organizations;
• Considerable experience in human resource management, financial management and project management;
• Excellent communications skills;
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, integrity and discretion;
• Knowledge of all federal and provincial legislation applicable to voluntary sector organizations including but not limited to employment standards, human rights, occupational health and safety, charities, taxation, CPP, EI, and health coverage;
• Knowledge of current community challenges and opportunities relating to the mission of the organization;
• Adept at using technology and business applications.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Cecilia Concerts is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a culture of inclusiveness.

Accommodation

We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices

Please address applications to: [email protected] no later than November 27, 2026, at 5:00pm. While we appreciate all applications, please note we will only contact those who are called for an interview.