Executive Director
/ORGANIZATION:
Vancouver Folk Music Festival
DEADLINE:
Oct. 31, 2025
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:
Founded in 1978, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival (VFMF) is a Canadian cultural institution. It is a unique celebration of traditional and contemporary folk and roots music from around the world. Rooted in values of artistic excellence, diversity and inclusiveness, environmental stewardship, social justice, and reconciliation, the festival is dedicated to honouring the transformative power of community and the joy of discovery. Every July, the VFMF takes place at ʔəy̓alməxʷ / Iy̓ál̓mexw Jericho Beach Park, on the unceded and ancestral land of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We honour and respect the sacred connection between Indigenous peoples and the land and commit to moving forward with the spirit of reconciliation and partnership. 2026 marks the festival’s 49th anniversary.
WEBSITE:
http://www.thefestival.bc.ca
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Executive Director works collaboratively with the Board of Directors and Artistic Director to update and implement the vision, values, and strategy of the organization. This role is responsible for managing VFMF operations with a focus on organizational stability, including fiscal management, fund development, and human resources.
Working hours are Monday to Friday, averaging 40 hours per week, with fewer hours in the fall and winter and more hours in the leadup to the festival. The Executive Director must be available on site the third week of July, including during all operating hours of the festival weekend. Occasional evening and weekend hours outside the festival week may be required, including outreach events and bi-weekly evening board meetings.
The position includes two weeks of paid vacation to start, with an additional five paid days during the winter break, exclusive of statutory holidays.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Build and manage an annual operating budget of approximately $2 million, including monitoring cashflow and providing updates to the Board of Directors
In collaboration with the Bookkeeper, ensure sound financial management and record-keeping procedures, including an annual audit and CRA T3010 filing
Oversee strategy, planning, and execution of festival operations, including permits and licenses
Oversee coordination of ticketing and on-site point of sale systems
Oversee development, updating, and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and practices in alignment with BC labour law and VFMF values
Lead short- and long-term workforce planning with support from the Board Personnel Committee
Directly supervise staff and contractors, including volunteer, site, operations, fundraising, marketing, and administration teams
Oversee and contribute to sponsorship, grant writing, and donor cultivation/stewardship
Engage in advocacy and community relations with the Artistic Director and Board of Directors
Develop, strengthen, and maintain respectful and reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities
Collaborate with senior leaders at other arts organizations to advocate for increased arts funding at all government levels
Stay current on issues, trends, events, and opportunities impacting the arts and nonprofit sectors
QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum 5 years of experience leading a high-performing team in a senior leadership role
Experience in nonprofit organizations, preferably in the arts and culture sector
Experience working or volunteering for live music events preferred
Knowledge and competency in HR, financial management, project management, and nonprofit legislation/structure
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Experience fundraising for nonprofits, including grants, sponsorships, and individual giving
Working knowledge of:
Google Suite, Microsoft, Apple OS
Databases (Salesforce, Airtable, Filemaker, Quickbooks Online)
Ticketing and POS platforms (Tickit, Square)
Adobe and Canva
Diploma or Degree in business management, arts management, HR, finance, marketing, social work, or related field is an asset
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Ability to foster an inclusive, culturally sensitive work environment and apply a JEDI lens
Experience with large outdoor events on temporary sites is an asset
HOW TO APPLY:
Submit your resume and cover letter as a single PDF to operations@thefestival.bc.ca. Applications will remain open until the position is filled. The first round of applicants will be assessed on October 23. The preferred start date is November 15. The VFMF Society aims to embed values of Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility into all aspects of our work, including hiring. Candidates from equity-deserving communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
REMUNERATION:
$70,000–$90,000
