Employment

The Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra (VYSO) is inviting applications for the position of Executive Director.

The VYSO, consisting of over 250 musicians across four orchestras, has provided young musicians with a high standard of orchestral training and music education since 1930. More information can be found at vyso.com.

POSITION TITLE:        Executive Director

APPLICATION DEADLINE:      February 12, 2024

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The VYSO Executive Director (ED) holds a top level management position responsible for guiding the direction of the organization and managing its operations, with a deep commitment to the VYSO mission, vision and values. The VYSO Executive Director is responsible for inspiring trust through effective communication, confident leadership and informed decision-making. The organizational ethos is set by the ED and inspires teamwork, aligned goals and purposes between the Board of Directors, staff, faculty and members. The VYSO needs an Executive Director that is committed to the people as much as the work of the venerable organization it represents.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

General

• Respect and support the VYSO mission, mandate and values
• In collaboration with the Board of Directors, staff and faculty, support equality, diversity and inclusion practices for the VYSO.
• In collaboration with the Board of Directors and staff, create and motivate an organizational culture of engagement and teamwork, to support open, respectful communication, collaborative working relationships and meaningful experiences
• With the Artistic Director, fulfill a role outside the office in regards to public relations, audience development, community/partnership development and organizational promotion
• Identify public and private granting opportunities and secure funds as needed.
• Develop and execute an annual program plan in support of artistic, administrative, financial, and public relation objectives, including orchestra rehearsals, workshops, concert performances, special events, audience development and other associated initiatives
• Encourage new strategic opportunities for the VYSO orchestra program, as outlined in the VYSO Strategy project
• Ensure that artistic programming achieves VYSO financial goals and budget, as well as both short term and long-term strategic objectives

Human Resources Management

• Oversee the negotiation and terms for leased rehearsal/office facilities, performances venues, equipment, rental music and instruments
• Oversee, negotiate and secure the contractual terms for employees, conductors, guest conductors, soloists, coaches and string assistants, with final approval from the Board of Directors 
• Oversee the work of VYSO employees and in collaboration with the Artistic Director, the work of the conductors, guest conductors, soloists, coaches and string assistants
• With the support of the Board of Directors, conduct annual performance reviews for VYSO employees and contractors.
• Recruit, select and supervise the work and function of non-musical contractors.
• Serve to bridge management and employee/contractor relations, including contractual demands, grievances and other HR issues.

Operations and Administrations

• Oversee the day-to-day operations, management of the VYSO administration staff and contractors.
• Oversee and represent the administrative and management aspects of the programming and operations.
• Explore and identify granting opportunities with the Artistic Director, work in collaboration with the Operations Manager to prepare and submit appropriate grant applications and to ensure that funds are spent in accordance with granting guidelines and reporting requirements are met.
• Oversee and support marketing, social media and public relations goals.

Orchestral Program

• Ensure smooth operations of the orchestral programs, the volunteer program and the logistical planning and details for all VYSO program events with the Communications / Operations Manager and Orchestra Coordinator.
• Attend all orchestra program events and manage as needed with the Orchestra Coordinator, volunteers and musicians to ensure the smooth flow of activities.
• Schedule audition dates with the Music Directors Committee, ensure smooth operations of all in-person auditions, oversee the wrap up of audition decisions and ensure the accurate and timely dissemination of audition results, to all audition applicants.
• Ongoing maintenance of VYSO Music library and instruments.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree / education in related field with minimum five years of experience in management role or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Extensive knowledge of the non-profit arts sector in Canada and a passion for music education.
• Commitment to the VYSO mission, vision and value and the advancement of equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Strong understanding of music and experience as a musician.
• Demonstrated success in working with volunteer Board and membership based organizations.
• Leadership and team management ability with an empowering and supportive attitude.
• Experience and ability to work in a collaborative team setting with a positive and professional attitude.
• Ability to work in an equal structural partnership with the Artistic Director.
• Experience in donor stewardship and fund development.
• Experience in acquiring grants and sponsorships
• Excellent English language written skills, including grant writing, reports and official letters.
• Excellent English language oral communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to problem solve, think quickly and be resourceful in unexpected situations.
• Ability to work diplomatically and effectively with staff, faculty, Board, and members of the VYSO and external community. 
• Independent worker, comfortable with flexible working hours, available on most Saturdays 8 – 5 pm between September – June, some weekday evenings and weekend events.
• Proficiency in, but not limited to, Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
• Understanding of financial principles and involvement in budget and strategic planning.
• Willingness to be involved in stage / rehearsal management and other physical aspects of the program.
• Mobility between office, rehearsal, workshop and concert sites.
• Legally able to work in Canada (Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or existing open work permit), valid BC Class 5 Drivers License and Successful Criminal Record Check including vulnerable sector search (annual check may be required)

REMUNERATION:

Salary range $60,000 – $65,000 per year based on 37.5 hours/week (hours and days may vary)

HOW TO APPLY:

Please email your resume and cover letter to:  info@vyso.com
Please include “Executive Director” in the subject line.
No phone calls please.

The VYSO thanks all applicants for their interest, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.