Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer, East Coast Music Association
Halifax, NS
The East Coast Music Association (ECMA) is searching for its next CEO to become part of its legacy to promote and preserve the East Coast music industry and culture.
The Organization
For the past 35 years, the ECMA has developed, advanced, and celebrated East Coast music, its artists, and industry professionals throughout the region and around the world. We work to understand the complex challenges facing East Coast musicians, and to make the world a better place through sharing the unique and diverse music of Atlantic Canada.
The ECMA strives to put a spotlight on the regions’ music industry, preserving and promoting local talent at home and around the world. As a member driven organization, we create opportunities for growth and connection among members within the music industry regionally, nationally, and internationally. We provide year-round support, advocacy, and recognition to artists and industry professionals working across all areas of the music industry, in all stages of their careers.
The Role
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the East Coast Music Association’s CEO is responsible for the overall success of the organization by providing strategic leadership, planning oversight and stewardship for all aspects of the organization’s finances and operations. They oversee all operations, functions, and activities of the organization and are responsible for the successful leadership and management of the organization, according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors. They work collaboratively with the Board and ECMA team to navigate ongoing fundraising and partnerships, positioning the ECMA for long-term success and stability. The CEO acts as the Executive Producer of the annual awards shows and works closely with government, funders, sponsors, and industry stakeholders, acting as an advocate for music and creative industries. They are responsible for the development and implementation of innovative initiatives and ensure all legal and regulatory compliance.
Key areas of oversight and responsibility are:
Strategic Leadership and Finance – Provides creative and visionary leadership in alignment with the ECMA mission, goals, and strategic priorities while ensuring the fiscal and legal integrity of the organization.
Partnerships and Development – Works closely with government, funders, sponsors, and industry stakeholders to build partnerships aligned with the values and purpose of the ECMA, creating opportunities for growth through shared resources and fundraising.
Communication and Advocacy – Proactively shares the story of music in Atlantic Canada and the ECMA as an organization designed to support regional arts and culture and acts as the main spokesperson for media and events.
Operational Management – Manages and mentors a diverse team of employees and contractors to achieve set objectives, monitors compliance with funding requirements, and acts as Executive Producer for all ECMA event productions.
The Ideal Candidate
As the ideal candidate, you have a deep and intimate connection to music and understand its cultural significance. You are committed to improving your community and the world by creating spaces where music is shared and appreciated. You are an experienced and creative leader who is adept at developing initiatives and partnerships that align with shared values. You are good at getting things done. You are an authentic communicator and storyteller capable of building momentum and generating funds to support your vision of success. You lead with integrity, courage and employ good judgment in decision-making.
Qualifications and Experience
While the Search Committee recognizes that no one candidate is likely to meet all qualifications in equal measure, those listed below are desirable and will be used to compare candidates.
• A university degree in a related field (e.g. business, international development, public administration, music) or equivalent education and experience.
• A proven track record in live music event production, and knowledge of contemporary issues facing musicians and the music industry.
• At least 3-5 years in organizational leadership, with an understanding of not-for-profit organizations considered an asset.
• Demonstrated skill in strategic financial and operational management and long-term planning.
• Evidence of significant skill in revenue generation and sponsorship development.
• A proven track record of fostering positive relationships and partnerships with government, businesses, community leaders, post-secondary institutions, music organizations, and other potential partners.
• Good knowledge of business-related technologies and how to implement efficiencies in not-for-profit environments.
• Ability to build and lead a high-performing team and maintain positive culture.
• Experience applying equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility lenses to operational policies and procedures and promoting recognition of diverse arts and music.
Skills and Attributes
• A purpose-driven leader with strong social justice lenses.
• Exceptional relational skills, able to quickly build trusting relationships.
• Integrity and creativity, with sound judgment.
• Superior skill in strategic, financial, and organizational management.
• Decisiveness combined with a collaborative style and the ability to effectively explain decisions, bringing clarity to complex issues.
If you are interested in this opportunity, contact Michelle Doyle at mdoyle@kbrs.ca, or Dr. Jennie Massey at jmassey@kbrs.ca or submit your full application by clicking the "Apply Now" Button below.