The Executive Director (ED) is the principal executive of the Whistler Film Festival Society (WFFS) and is responsible for the strategic leadership, organizational health, and overall operational delivery of the Society’s programs, including the Whistler Film Festival, year-round training and industry development programs, and the Content Summit, as well as the organization’s broader operations and strategic partnerships. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED works collaboratively with staff, stakeholders, and partners to advance the Society’s mission and ensure long-term sustainability and impact. The ED leads a seasonal team of 45 staff and oversees an annual budget of approximately $1.75 million.

Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
• Lead the development and execution of the Society’s strategic and annual business plans in collaboration with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders.
• Foster an organizational culture grounded in innovation, respect, equity, and artistic excellence.
• Represent WFFS to stakeholders, funders, and the public as an articulate and compelling spokesperson.
2. Organizational Oversight
• Provide executive oversight of all WFFS programming, operations, finance, and administration.
• Ensure effective operational systems, technology, and risk management practices.
• Supervise and support senior staff and contractors to ensure alignment across departments.
• Ensure clear policies and systems are in place for HR, finance, risk, and governance.
• Oversee communication and marketing of organizational vision, mission, goals, and programs.
3. Financial Stewardship
• Lead budgeting and financial planning in partnership with the Board Treasurer.
• Ensure strong fiscal management, compliance, and regular reporting to the Board.
• Identify and pursue revenue diversification opportunities including sponsorship, grants, and philanthropy.
4. Fundraising & Stakeholder Engagement
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, public funders, and partners.
• Oversee fundraising strategy and initiatives, including campaigns and events.
• Champion the value of Canadian film and arts to stakeholders at all levels.
5. Governance & Board Relations
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, providing timely reporting and strategic counsel.
• Support effective governance through planning, meeting preparation, and policy development.
• Ensure alignment between Board direction and organizational implementation

Qualifications
• Senior leadership experience in the arts, nonprofit, or cultural sector.
• Proven success in strategic planning, stakeholder relations, and revenue development.
• Strong financial literacy and experience overseeing complex budgets.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and supporting emerging talent in the arts.
• Excellent communicator with a collaborative, respectful leadership style.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.
• Comfort operating in high-visibility public environments.
• Demonstrated experience navigating sector change, leadership transition, and organizational renewal.

Position Details
• Work Schedule: Primarily business hours, with significant evening and weekend work during festival periods

Equity & Inclusion
WFFS is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, and members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.