Secretary
/ORGANIZATION: Vancouver Musicians' Association (AFM Local 145)
DEADLINE: January 31, 2026
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:
Vancouver Musicians’ Association (VMA), Local 145 of the American Federation of Musicians, is Western Canada’s largest musicians’ union. For over 120 years, we have represented and advocated for professional musicians working throughout mainland British Columbia. Our 1,500+ members work under freelance contracts and collective agreements, supported by an in-house payroll service.
WEBSITE:
http://www.vma145.ca
JOB DESCRIPTION:
We are seeking an experienced Secretary to lead office operations, support collective bargaining, and contribute to the long-term strategic direction of the VMA. This is a senior integrated leadership position combining the roles of Secretary, Business Agent, and Office Manager.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Key Responsibilities:
Reporting directly to—and serving as a non-voting member of—the VMA Executive Board, the Secretary is responsible for overseeing daily operations while contributing to medium- and long-term planning.
Under the direction of the Executive Board, responsibilities include:
Managing day-to-day office operations and supervising staff (including hiring, performance management, and discipline)
Setting priorities, work objectives, and allocating financial and human resources
Overseeing communications and social media
Participating in and supporting musicians’ collective agreement negotiations
Interpreting and administering VMA collective agreements
Representing the VMA and acting as liaison with arts organizations, industry partners, labour groups, employers, and government bodies
Leading strategic planning initiatives
Identifying and managing organizational development opportunities (e.g., grants, technology initiatives)
Supporting employment and professional opportunities for VMA members
Expanding membership through outreach, education, and community engagement
QUALIFICATIONS:
Ideal Candidate Profile:
The successful candidate will bring strong leadership, organizational, and relationship-building skills, along with:
Minimum 3 years’ experience in office and staff management
Extensive experience with collective agreement negotiation and administration
Strong background in business administration, operations, or entrepreneurial work
Financial literacy and experience managing budgets and resources
Strategic planning experience in a business and/or non-profit setting
Knowledge of the nonprofit performing arts and entertainment sectors
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Strong written and verbal communication skills
A professional, approachable manner when working with the public
A collaborative, inclusive leadership style
Ability to build effective relationships with staff, members, and the VMA Executive Board
A demonstrated passion for musicians’ and artists’ rights
HOW TO APPLY:
To apply please submit a cover letter along with your resume (including references) to VMA President Jim Hopson by January 31st, 2026: jim@vma145.ca
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity, and request any accommodations be noted in cover letters to ensure reasonable preparations may be made.
We thank all applicants, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
We acknowledge our office is located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded Coast Salish Territory of the Musqueam, Squamish & Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.
REMUNERATION:
Compensation & Benefits: Full-Time position (35-40 hours per week). Annual Salary: $80,000+ (negotiable). Bonus and comprehensive benefits package following successful completion of a 6-month probation period.
