Executive Director Job Description

Executive Director – Craft Nova Scotia 

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia 
Type: Full-time 
Salary Range: $85,000–$95,000, commensurate with experience 

Position Summary 

Craft Nova Scotia is seeking a bold, strategic Executive Director to lead the organization through a period of renewal and growth. This role serves as the senior leader and public face of the organization—responsible for strategy, governance, fundraising, and sector-wide advocacy. The ED works in close partnership with the Board, staff, and external stakeholders to ensure sustainable operations, inclusive engagement, and province-wide impact. 

The ideal candidate brings a systems-level view, deep sector relationships, and a collaborative leadership style grounded in artist-centered values and equity. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development 

  • Guide the implementation of the pivot plan and lead development of a 3–5 year strategic plan. 
  • Align programming and operations with Craft NS’s artist-centered mission, regional and community equity goals. 
  • Build a culture of shared leadership, accountability, and team care across the  organization. 

Governance, Financial Oversight & HR 

  • Partner with the Board to uphold sound governance and strategic direction.
  • Oversee budgeting, fundraising, grant reporting, and long-term financial planning.
  • Lead annual staff performance evaluations and contribute to a healthy, inclusive team culture. 

Stakeholder & Sector Engagement 

  • Serve as lead public spokesperson, strengthening visibility and government relations. 
  • Champion the craft sector across Nova Scotia, ensuring regional voices and equity inform planning. 
  • Represent the organization at key events, forums, and national gatherings. 

Communications & Program Alignment 

  • Hold final accountability for Craft NS’s public messaging and brand voice.
  • Support staff and contractors in shaping clear, consistent communications. 
  • Provide strategic oversight of major public events, including exhibitions and markets.

Team & Cross-Functional Coordination 

  • Participate in weekly or bi-weekly planning meetings with the Operations and  Commercial Managers. 
  • Collaborate across teams to ensure alignment between mission, programming, and delivery. 

Required Qualities & Experience 

  • Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership role, ideally within the cultural, nonprofit, or creative sectors. 
  • Proven capacity to lead strategy, manage change, and build strong, collaborative teams.
  • Deep understanding of the craft sector or creative entrepreneurship—especially in  Regional contexts. 
  • Skilled communicator with experience in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and public leadership. 
  • Confident in financial oversight, fundraising, and resource development. 
  • Committed to artist-centered growth, equity, and province-wide inclusion. 
Learn More 
Applicants are encouraged to review our website to learn more about our programs, strategic direction, and current initiatives: www.craftnovascotia.ca 
Application Instructions 
To apply, please submit the following materials in a single PDF document:
  • A cover letter outlining your interest in the role and alignment with Craft Nova Scotia’s mission
  • A current résumé highlighting relevant experience and accomplishments 
  • Names and contact information for three professional references (references will not be contacted  without your permission) 
Please email your application to: board@craftnovascotia.ca 
Use the subject line: Executive Director Application – [Your Name] 
Deadline to Apply: June 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM Atlantic Time 
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 
Equity Statement 
Craft Nova Scotia is committed to fostering an equitable, inclusive, and diverse craft community that reflects our province’s full breadth of experiences. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who identify as Mi’kmaq or other Indigenous peoples, African Nova Scotian, Black, racialized,  2SLGBTQIA+, newcomers, persons with disabilities, and others who experience systemic barriers to opportunity. 

We recognize lived experience as a vital form of leadership and insight, and we value non-traditional career paths, community-based experience, and culturally specific knowledge alongside formal education and professional roles. 
Accessibility Accommodation Statement 
We are committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, please contact us at board@craftnovascotia.ca.  We will work with you to ensure your full participation and a positive candidate experience. 
Contact Information 

Doug Large 
Search Committee Chair 
board@craftnovascotia.ca 
craftnovascotia.ca