CAFKA – Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener and Area is looking for an Artistic Director. The Artistic Director works closely with the Executive Director, the Programming and Installation Committees (a hard-working volunteer board) and the City of Kitchener to select, present, and interpret CAFKA’s biennial exhibition and ancillary programming. Deadline for application is Friday, June 7, 2013.

Though the following duties are meant to be as comprehensive as possible, it is understood that the position is one that is constantly evolving as the organization grows and adapts through new programs, funding sources, and community initiatives. There are a number of weeks which will require overtime, particularly in the periods leading up to the biennial and other significant events. There is also a requirement for evening and weekend commitments in the form of board and committee meetings (typically week nights), events, and networking opportunities. Overtime is compensated with time-off in lieu, during slower periods of the annual schedule.

Job Description: Artistic Director

Duties include (but are not limited to):

1. The development, implementation, presentation and promotion of CAFKA’s biennial exhibition in conjunction with the CAFKA Programming Committee;
2. Providing support and input to the CAFKA Programming, Marketing, Education and Volunteer Committees;
3. Soliciting, reviewing and revising proposals from artists and preparing material for the selection of projects by the Programming Committee;
4. Negotiating and writing contracts and developing budgets with artists;
5. Liaising with the City of Kitchener, partnering public galleries and other public and private property managers to secure sites for the exhibition;
6. Co-ordinating volunteers for the biennial exhibition and for CAFKA special events;
7. Assessing artists' needs/technical details and co-ordinate procurement of material, equipment, volunteers and skilled labour for the artist projects to be installed during the biennial exhibition;
8. Working with photographers and videographers to document the exhibition, guest lectures and other CAFKA special events.
9. Working with the Executive Director and the Fundraising Committee to secure/arrange donations in kind, volunteers, etc.;
10. Working with the Executive Director and the Marketing Committee to implement a comprehensive media strategy;
11. Working with the Executive Director and board committees preparing and coordinating media releases, newsletters, and Internet–based public relations and promotion and other collateral publicity;
12. Liaising with the media, acting as spokesperson, developing press packages and soliciting reviews;
13. Participate in the development of the exhibition program guide and exhibition catalogue;
14. Attend board meetings, programming committee meetings, and promotional events.

Additional Duties (non-biennial years, related activities):

• Administration of the Christie-CAFKA Artist-In-Residence Programme.
• The development, implementation, presentation and promotion, of CAFKA’s off-year programming in conjunction with the CAFKA Programming Committee – includes partner initiatives with the Open Ears Festival of Music and Sound, the Big Ideas in Art & Culture Lecture Series and events such as CAFKA @ The Walper and the Steel Rail Sessions.
•  Ongoing management of website including managing content, updating member and sponsor recognition, social media integration

Qualifications:

• Extensive knowledge of contemporary art practices and an understanding of interdisciplinary art activity and organizations, with proven experience in an artist-run centre or similar not-for-profit organization, or equivalent training and experience;
• Superior communication, project management, and organizational skills;
• Familiarity with graphic layout and design;
• Collegial spirit and experience working with volunteer boards and committees;
• Curatorial experience and/or publishing history an asset;
• Web site maintenance and social media skills (or willingness to acquire such skills) an asset;
• Computer literacy (word processing; graphic design programs) is requisite;
• Commitment to regional artistic initiatives, willingness to engage the public.
• Experience with volunteer coordination and engagement.

Salary paid: $40,000/year.

Submit applications by email with the subject line "Artistic Director Job Application" to:
Gordon Hatt,
Executive Director
CAFKA - Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener and Area
gwhatt@cafka.org