Executive Director
/Job Title:
Executive Director
Organization:
Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra Society
Deadline:
May. 10, 2026
Organization Description:
The Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra (VYSO) is British Columbia’s premier orchestra training program, inspiring young musicians through world-class training and performance opportunities. As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to nurturing the musical growth of youth in a supportive yet challenging environment, empowering them to reach their full potential both on and off the stage. Through rehearsals, performances, and collaborations with renowned soloists, guest artists, and coaches, VYSO provides the skills and experience essential for 21st-century artists.
We are committed to an inclusive and accessible learning environment built on respect and integrity while embracing and promoting diversity. Beyond performance, we are firmly committed to the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and leadership, shaping well-rounded artist-citizens who contribute meaningfully to society in any discipline they pursue.
Website:
Job Description:
The Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and serves as the chief administrative and strategic leader of the Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra (VYSO). The ED is responsible for advancing the organization’s mission through strategic leadership, financial sustainability, operational excellence, and strong community relationships. Working in close partnership with the Artistic Director and Board of Directors, the ED ensures alignment between artistic vision and organizational capacity and represents VYSO within the broader arts ecosystem. The ED is responsible for inspiring trust through effective communication, confident leadership, and informed decision-making. The ED sets the organizational tone, fostering alignment, accountability, and collaboration across the Board, staff, and artistic leadership. The VYSO seeks an ED who is equally committed to its people, its mission, and the continued growth of the organization.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic leader with a passion for music education and youth development. They bring strong organizational and financial acumen, combined with the ability to build meaningful relationships with artists, educators, families, and community partners. This individual is equally comfortable with big-picture thinking and hands-on execution, and thrives in a dynamic, community-driven environment.
Responsibilities:
Leadership and Strategy
• Advance VYSO’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and accountable organizational culture
• Lead integrated planning across artistic, operational, and financial areas to support organizational sustainability
• Identify and develop strategic opportunities and program initiatives in alignment with VYSO’s long-term vision
• Represent VYSO externally in partnership with the Artistic Director
Governance and Board Relations
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee
• Support effective governance practices, including bylaws, policies, and board development
• Provide regular reporting, insights, and strategic recommendations to the Board
• Support Board and committee effectiveness, including meeting preparation, materials, and follow-up
Financial Leadership
• Develop and manage annual budgets and multi-year financial forecasts
• Oversee tuition strategy and financial sustainability planning
• Support endowment development and long-term financial planning
• Work closely with the Treasurer, Finance Committee, and administrative team on financial oversight and reporting
Human Resources Management
• Lead recruitment, hiring, and supervision of administrative staff
• Oversee contracts and relationships for artistic and administrative personnel, in collaboration with the Artistic Director
• Support performance management and annual review processes
• Support and maintain HR policies and practices to support organizational effectiveness
• Manage personnel matters with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment
Operations and Program Oversight
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure effective execution of all VYSO programs and activities
• Lead planning and delivery of orchestral programming, including rehearsals, auditions, performances, workshops, and special initiatives
• Provide on-site leadership at key programs and events to ensure smooth and professional operations
• Oversee administrative systems, logistics, and vendor relationships, including facilities, venues, and production requirements
• Oversee and support all marketing and promotion initiatives in collaboration with staff
• Ensure effective management of organizational assets, including music library and instrument inventory
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree / education in a related field with a minimum five years of leadership experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated experience in arts administration, with strong knowledge of the Canadian non-profit arts sector
• Experience working with Board of Directors and governance structures, ideally within a membership-based organization
• Proven leadership and team management experience, with the ability to foster a collaborative and professional working environment
• Experience in fundraising, including donor stewardship, grants, and sponsorship development
• Strong financial literacy, including experience with budgeting and strategic planning
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience in grant writing, official letters, reporting, and stakeholder communication
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with staff, Board members, artistic personnel, families, and community stakeholders
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong understanding of music, with experience as a musician and/or meaningful connection to the music community
• Ability to work in an equal structural partnership with the Artistic Director within a shared leadership model
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
• Proficiency in, but not limited to, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and an understanding of QuickBooks.
• independent self-starter, comfortable with flexible working hours, available on most Saturdays 8am – 5pm between September – June, some weekday evenings and weekend events.
• Willingness to support program operations, including on-site and production-related responsibilities
• Mobility between office, rehearsal, sectionals, workshops, masterclasses, and concert locations.
• Legally eligible to work in Canada (Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or existing open work permit); a valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License; and a successful Criminal Record Check, including a vulnerable sector search (annual check may be required)
How to Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter to Emily Yu, Operations Manager at 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.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
The Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage those from underrepresented communities to apply. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process upon request.
Remuneration:
$60,000 - $70,000 per year. This is a full-time, salaried position. Hours will vary and may include evenings and weekends as required.
