Senior Manager, Artistic Programming

Are you an experienced arts leader with a passion for creating meaningful cultural experiences and community impact?

Do you have experience bringing artistic programming, live events, and creative projects from concept through execution?

Are you looking for an opportunity to shape the future of artistic programming within a mission-driven organization dedicated to cultural expression and community engagement?

The Company

Our client is a respected arts organization dedicated to supporting artists, fostering community engagement, and creating impactful experiences. Recognized as a leader within Toronto's creative landscape, the organization is committed to advancing artistic excellence through innovative programming, meaningful partnerships, and audience development initiatives.

Due to continued growth and an expanding programming portfolio, they are seeking a Senior Manager, Artistic Programming to lead the development and execution of dynamic artistic experiences while overseeing a growing team and contributing to the organization's long-term strategic vision.

Company Perks and Rewards

• Extended health and dental benefits (100% employer paid following probation)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Hybrid work model (3–4 days onsite)
• Opportunity to shape high-profile artistic programming initiatives
• Significant visibility and creative influence across the organization
• Opportunity for long‑term growth and leadership development

The Job!

As the Senior Manager, Artistic Programming, you will lead the vision, planning, and execution of artistic programming initiatives while managing a team responsible for delivering engaging cultural experiences and community‑focused events. This role offers the opportunity to directly influence artistic strategy while activating performance spaces and strengthening relationships within Toronto's arts and cultural communities.

• Lead the development and execution of artistic programming initiatives focused on performing arts disciplines including music, theatre, dance, interdisciplinary arts, and live cultural experiences.
• Conceptualize, plan, and deliver performances, artist talks, workshops, professional development initiatives, public programs, and community events.
• Oversee artistic projects from concept through execution, including planning, logistics, artist coordination, production management, and evaluation.
• Provide leadership, coaching, mentorship, and performance management to two direct reports while supporting contractors, facilitators, and production staff as required.
• Manage programming budgets of approximately $200,000, ensuring responsible oversight of artist fees, production costs, vendors, and project expenditures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, curators, cultural workers, community organizations, and strategic partners.
• Collaborate with leadership on fundraising initiatives, sponsorship opportunities, grant‑supported programming, and partnership development.
• Contribute to organizational planning, audience development strategies, and the ongoing evolution of artistic programming.
• Help strengthen internal systems, workflows, production processes, and cross‑functional collaboration to support sustainable growth.

What you bring to the job

You are a strategic, collaborative, and community‑focused arts leader who understands how to balance creative vision with operational execution. You are passionate about building meaningful artistic experiences while developing strong teams and community relationships.

• 6+ years of experience developing, producing, or leading artistic programming, cultural events, performances, festivals, or public‑facing creative projects.
• Demonstrated people leadership experience, including direct staff management, coaching, and professional development.
• Strong project management and production management experience, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience managing budgets, timelines, vendors, contracts, and stakeholder relationships.
• Strong knowledge of at least one performing arts discipline such as music, theatre, dance, or interdisciplinary live arts.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship‑building skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and analytical abilities, with the capacity to translate ideas into actionable programming.
• Experience working collaboratively within arts, cultural, and community‑based environments.
• Experience supporting fundraising, sponsorship initiatives, grant‑funded programs, or strategic partnerships is considered a strong asset.
• Possess high emotional intelligence, strong leadership capabilities, and a passion for creating impactful artistic experiences.

Qualified job seekers are asked to apply with attention to Antoinette King. Reference #13930.

Expected Compensation: CAD $70,000 – $80,000

Existing Position Vacancy: Yes

Equal Employment Opportunity

Options Consulting Solutions is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals. Applicants selected for an in‑person interview will be asked whether specific accommodations are needed to support a personal disability.

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