Executive Director | Stratford Summer Music
Location: Stratford, Ontario
Reports to: Board of Directors
Partnership: Artistic Director (Mark Fewer)
Application Deadline: February 9, 2026
The Organization
Stratford Summer Music (SSM) is an award-winning annual festival set in one of Canada’s most celebrated cultural destinations. Since 2001, SSM has bridged the gap between local charm and international excellence, presenting over 45 performances across four weeks each summer. SSM is seeking a new Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of strategic growth and musical distinction.
The Role
The Executive Director serves full-time as the senior administrative officer of SSM. Working in the Stratford, Ontario office, reporting to the Board of Directors, and working in close tandem with the Artistic Director, the ED is responsible for the festival’s financial health, administrative excellence, marketing reach, and philanthropic growth.
Key Responsibilities
1. Financial Management & Governance
• Develop and manage annual budgets in collaboration with the Artistic Director.
• Provide the Board with monthly financial reporting and strategic governance support.
• Oversee endowed funds, investment manager liaisons, and the annual audit process.
• Act as a primary signing officer and ensure rigorous budgetary controls.
2. Fundraising & Strategic Development
• Lead the preparation of municipal, provincial (OAC), and federal (Canada Council) grant applications.
• Maintain and expand the festival’s donor base through proactive stewardship of individual and corporate sponsors.
• Implement the Board-approved Strategic Plan and contribute to future visioning.
3. Operations & Office Management
• Supervise the daily business operations and the SSM office.
• Hire, train, and lead all administrative, seasonal, and volunteer staff.
• Oversee the box office and ticket sales systems to maximize revenue and patron experience.
4. Marketing & Public Relations
• Set the promotional direction of the festival in consultation with the Artistic Director.
• Manage regional and national media relations and oversee the public relations firm.
• Serve as an ambassador for SSM within the Stratford community and the broader arts sector.
Candidate Profile
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in senior management within the arts/culture sector. Preference will be given to those with experience specifically in music.
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of cultural festival operations and the grant-writing ecosystem.
• Leadership: A productive team builder who thrives in fast-paced, rapidly changing environments.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to represent SSM to diverse stakeholders.
• Passion: A genuine love for live music across all genres. A desire for exceptional outcomes.
Timeline & Application
• Interviews: February, 2026
• Selection: March, 2026
• Start Date: Preferably April, 2026 (to allow for a transition period with the outgoing ED).
• Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 per year
To Apply: Please submit your application electronically in confidence to succession@stratfordsummermusic.ca to the attention of Michael Lutzmann, Chair of the Search Committee.
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