Managing Director

Company Overview

The Vancouver Fringe Theatre Society was formed in 1983 by a group of local artists who had a common goal: to provide a platform for independent artists. The society held its first Fringe Festival in 1985. We now hold the annual Vancouver Fringe Festival every September. Through our work we aim to foster a dynamic community of independent and emerging live performance through artistic development, arts advocacy, and the platform of an annual Festival.

The administrative office of the Fringe Festival is located on the unceded territory of the slílwta (Tsleil-Waututh), Swxwú7mesh (Squamish), and xmθkym (Musqueam) Nations.

Job Description

The Managing Director is responsible for day-to-day management, including providing administrative and financial oversight for the Society as well as supporting the overall operations of the Festival. The Managing Director is a connector, bringing together our dynamic community of volunteers, staff, and artists. This process-oriented role supports the multifaceted nature of our festival.

The Managing Director reports to the Executive Director and supervises a small year-round team as well as the seasonal festival operations team.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Logistics Strategy

• Set strategic operations of the organization, as well as day-to-day operations
• Direct systems and organizational operations
• Manage all office IT hardware/software and support requirements
• Maintain organizational records and databases in accordance with accepted standards
• Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory and regulatory health and safety requirements, as well as relevant insurance policies
• Manage office lease and tenant relationship with CMHC Granville Island
• Attend monthly Board meetings with the Executive Director

Financial management

• Set annual budget for the organization with the Executive Director
• Implement and track budgeting, including creating monthly and annual reporting
• Manage the accounting of the organization with the Bookkeeper, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliation, and reporting
• Lead monthly financial reconciliation and annual audit along with the Bookkeeper

Festival Strategy & Operations

• Lead festival operational strategy, including reviewing venue partnerships and the scope and scale of the festival
• Support the Volunteer department in assessing needs, recruiting, and training volunteers
• Ensure that the festival operates within budget guidelines with the Executive Director
• Coordinate with all venues, including contracting, policies and procedures, and payments (including lottery venues, bring-your-own venues, and outdoor locations)
• Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory and regulatory health and safety requirements
• Manage compliance with alcohol licensing requirements and, with the Bar Manager, oversee purchasing and product needs for the Fringe Bar
• Review and support technological needs of the Box Office and Front of House teams
• Continue to grow equitable access to the Fringe through partnerships with organizations such as VocalEye and access programs
• Review and manage the scheduling of the festival and its associated events and performances with the Production Manager and Artist Services Coordinator

People leadership

• Lead Festival Operations team, including Front of House, Box Office, and Fringe Bar teams along with department managers
• Cultivate a positive, supportive, and inclusive workplace for all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders
• Maintain Fringe values of inclusivity and accessibility
• Maintain the Safer Spaces program with the Executive Director, ensuring reports and concerns are reviewed and responded to appropriately

Person Specification

• Strong management skills with an inclusive and ethical approach to leading a team
• Experience with fiscal management, including developing budgets and reporting
• Experience in live performing arts, including event production and front of house
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to excel in a high-pressure environment with last-minute changes
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and independently
• Strong computer skills.
• Curiosity and excitement to learn
• Dedication to helping artists and building community
• Embodiment of the Fringe spirit of finding joy in the unexpected and celebrating art of every kind