Executive Director

Company Overview

Where leadership meets legacy in Canadian theatre

About Black Theatre Workshop

Black Theatre Workshop (BTW) is Canada’s longest-standing Black theatre company and a national leader in advancing Black voices on stage. For over five decades, BTW has championed representation, nurtured talent, and brought urgent, inspiring stories to audiences across Canada. Currently BTW produces one to two mainstage productions per year, a touring production, biennial playwrights' festival and a theatre training program, in addition to various smaller events and fundraisers.

Job Description

Today, we are looking for our first Executive Director: a visionary leader who can build on this legacy, strengthen our position as a national cultural voice, and guide the organization into an ambitious new chapter.

This is more than administration. This is a chance to:

       Shape culture: Be at the forefront of conversations on Canadian arts and representation.

       Amplify voices: Champion emerging Black artists and open doors for diverse creators.

       Build legacy: Leave your mark on Canadian theatre while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

       Lead with values: Join an organization where equity, diversity, and inclusion are lived commitments, not just policies.

The role

This role is a full time position, working from our offices in Montreal, that requires occasional late or extended work hours around productions.

As Executive Director, you will:

       Lead a team of 5 to 8 employees.

       Work in close partnership with the Artistic Director to co-lead the company.

       Guide the organization with a strong business sense—overseeing finances, operations, and long-term sustainability.

       Identify and lead grant writing opportunities.

       Strengthen BTW’s reputation across Canada.

       Build strategic partnerships and relationships that extend beyond the English- and Black-Canadian communities.

       Engage staff, board, and volunteers in meaningful, creative work aligned with our mission.

       Support the Board of Directors in advancing strategic planning and governance.

       Oversee BTW’s marketing, publicity, promotion and outreach.

Who we’re looking for

An ideal candidate brings:

       5–7 years of leadership experience in arts management, live performance, festivals, or a related cultural sector.

       A strong business and financial background, with proven ability to manage budgets and ensure organizational sustainability.

       Track record of successful organizational grant writing.

       Knowledge of the local and national theatre landscape.

       Working knowledge of Professional theatre associations and Unions and standing joint agreements (CTA, APASQ, UDA, PACT).

       Critical thinking and organizational skills to run a live arts company with vision and steadiness.

       A growth mindset, creativity, and calm under pressure.

       A track record of community engagement and inclusive leadership.

       Passion for the arts and a commitment to advancing equity and representation in Canadian culture.

       Professional fluency in French and English.

       Knowledge of Salesforce, Sharepoint and other business platforms.

What We Offer

       Salary according to experience (between $65-70,000).

       Health insurance and dental plan.

       Vacation time includes 2 weeks over the winter holiday break and 3 weeks paid vacation in July.

       National visibility and influence in Canadian arts and culture.

       Opportunities for professional development and participation in festivals, exchanges, and international partnerships.

       A collaborative, innovative workplace that values both creativity and accountability.

       The chance to co-lead a cultural movement that continues to inspire, provoke, and empower.