Chief Executive Officer

Symphony Nova Scotia; Halifax; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Symphony Nova Scotia seeks a dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead its artistic vision and operational strategy. The role involves fostering community engagement and ensuring organizational growth and sustainability, while championing the transformative power of the arts across the province. Candidates should have senior leadership experience in mission-driven organizations, along with excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Qualifications

• Visionary strategist with a passion for the arts.
• Experience in complex, mission-driven organizations.
• Ability to engage diverse audiences and inspire trust.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for Symphony Nova Scotia.
• Oversee governance and organizational leadership.
• Engage with donors, community, and sector stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Planning

Community Engagement

Fundraising

Education

Senior leadership experience in the arts or non-profit sectors

Job description

About Symphony Nova Scotia Symphony Nova Scotia is a cornerstone of Nova Scotia’s cultural landscape known for artistic excellence, community engagement, and educational outreach. With a legacy rooted in over a century of orchestral tradition and a bold vision for the future, Symphony Nova Scotia is the largest employer in Nova Scotia’s performing arts sector reaching more than 50,000 people annually through innovative performances and programs.

To lead the organization into the new era, Symphony Nova Scotia’s Board of Directors is seeking a visionary and dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of symphonic music in the province, champion the transformative power of the arts, and build meaningful connections with communities across the province.

The Opportunity
As CEO, you will be the strategic and operational leader of Symphony Nova Scotia, working closely with the Board of Directors, Music Director, Senior Leadership Team, the Foundation, donors, funding partners, and key community partners. You will guide the organization through a period of growth and renewal, ensuring its long-term sustainability, artistic vibrancy, and community relevance. With a budget of $5-6 million, a team of 18 administrative staff, and 37 musicians, you will sit at the heart of Symphony Nova Scotia, driving vision, operations, and impact.

This role is about more than managing an orchestra, it’s about inspiring a movement. You will lead efforts to diversify revenue, expand audiences, and deepen the Symphony’s impact through inclusive programming, education, and outreach. You will be a visible and credible ambassador for the Symphony, forging strong relationships with donors, funders, musicians, artists, and audiences alike.

Key Areas of Responsibility
As CEO, you will be responsible for the oversight of:

• Strategic leadership and vision
• Governance and strategic planning
• Organizational leadership
• Sector, donor, and community engagement
• Change management
• Communications and partner relations

Ideal Candidate Profile
You are a purpose-driven leader with a passion for the arts and a deep appreciation for the role of music in community life. With senior leadership experience in complex, mission-driven organizations, ideally in the arts, cultural, or non-profit sectors, you are both a visionary strategist and a practical executor who knows how to turn bold ideas into measurable results.

You are a compelling communicator and relationship builder, able to engage diverse audiences and inspire trust. Visionary and innovative, you have the ability and drive to reposition the Symphony in a changing cultural landscape, rejuvenating its public profile, engaging new and diverse audiences, innovating programming and outreach, and identifying fresh opportunities for funding and growth. You lead with empathy, humility, and integrity, and are committed to fostering a healthy and collaborative workplace where the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility are deeply embedded in the culture, reflected in decision-making, and evident in everyday practices.

Above all, you are committed to the cultural vibrancy of the province and see the Symphony as a powerful force for community connection, artistic excellence, and social impact. You are excited about the prospect of leading Symphony Nova Scotia as the organization evolves into one of Canada’s most dynamic and versatile orchestras, shaping a bold and exciting future.

Diversity and Accessibility Statement
Symphony Nova Scotia is committed to fostering a respectful workplace that supports professional and collegial working relationships, honest and considerate communication, and an accessible and inclusive environment. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals who are Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, or from other racially visible groups, and/or who self-identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, are neurodiverse, or have a disability. We are happy to provide accommodation to those who request it.

KBRS will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that considers an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact [e-mail] or communicate your needs to our team.