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. 

Contact Information 

Doug Large 

Search Committee Chair 

board@craftnovascotia.ca 

craftnovascotia.ca