Executive Director, Craft Nova Scotia

Mega Bitch by Libbie Farrell shown at the Mary E. Black Gallery at Craft Nova Scotia in Halifax, NS

Applications Open
Executive Director, Craft Nova Scotia

Application Deadline: July 8, 2026, 11:59pm ADT

Craft Nova Scotia is seeking an experienced, innovative, and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of stability, growth, and long-term sustainability.

About Craft Nova Scotia

Craft Nova Scotia is a non-profit charitable organization that has supported and advanced the craft sector across Nova Scotia for more than 50 years. Through advocacy, exhibitions, markets, education, and community partnerships, they help ensure craft remains a vibrant cultural and economic force throughout the province.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The Executive Director provides overall strategic leadership and organizational oversight. The ED works in close partnership with staff, members, funders, partners, and the broader craft community to advance Craft Nova Scotia’s mission while ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability, and sector leadership.

The Executive Director leads the team as the primary ambassador for the organization, strengthening relationships across Nova Scotia and championing the value of craft in Nova Scotia’s cultural and economic landscape.

Strategic Leadership

Lead the development and implementation of organizational strategy in partnership with the Board and staff team.
Strengthen organizational sustainability, impact, and long-term resilience.
Ensure alignment between mission, programs, operations, and strategic priorities.
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Governance & Board Relations

Work in partnership with the Board of Directors to support strong governance and strategic oversight.
Provide regular reporting on organizational performance, risks, and opportunities.
Support Board committees and implementation of Board-approved initiatives.
Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, funder requirements, and organizational policies.

Financial Management & Resource Development

Oversee budgeting, financial planning, cash flow oversight, and financial reporting in collaboration with the Bookkeeper and Finance/Executive Committee.
Support the organization’s long-term financial sustainability.
Lead or support fundraising, grant applications, sponsorship development, and revenue diversification initiatives.
Strengthen earned and contributed revenue opportunities in alignment with organizational capacity.

Leadership & Human Resources

Provide supportive, collaborative, and strategic leadership to staff and contractors.
Work closely with the Operations Manager, Communications Manager, and Bookkeeper to ensure coordinated delivery of organizational priorities.
Foster a healthy, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture.
Support performance development and organizational capacity building.

Sector Leadership & Community Engagement

Serve as the primary spokesperson for Craft Nova Scotia.
Build and maintain strong relationships with members, funders, government agencies, cultural organizations, and sector partners.
Advocate for the craft sector across Nova Scotia and beyond.
Represent the organization at key events, forums, and sector gatherings.

Programs, Services & Organizational Oversight

Provide strategic oversight and input to programs, exhibitions, markets, and member services.
Support staff in evaluating and improving program effectiveness and sustainability.
Ensure programs align with mission, strategic priorities, and available resources.

Required Qualifications & Experience

Minimum five years of leadership experience in the nonprofit, cultural, arts, or creative sectors.
Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and organizational oversight.
Proven track record in fundraising, sponsorship development, or revenue generation.
Strong understanding of governance and experience working with Boards of Directors.
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Proficiency with media relations.
Experience working with staff in a collaborative and values-based environment.
Knowledge of the craft or broader cultural sector.
Significant expertise in gallery operations and craft retail.

Find the full job description on the website.

Equity Statement

Craft Nova Scotia is committed to fostering an equitable, inclusive, and diverse craft community that reflects the full breadth of experiences across the province.
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 value non-traditional career paths, community-based experience, and culturally specific knowledge alongside formal education and professional roles.

Accessibility Statement

We are committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, we will work with you to ensure your full participation and a positive candidate experience.

How to Apply

Visit the website to view the full job description.

Qualified candidates should apply by sending their Letter of Interest and Resume/CV in PDF format by email to Craft NS’ HR Committee Chair at: HRcommittee@craftnovascotia.ca

Application Deadline: July 8, 2026, 11:59pm ADT

For additional information or questions, please contact:
Jacqueline Steudler, Board Member & HR Committee Chair
HRcommittee@craftnovascotia.ca

Craft Nova Scotia
1113 Marginal Street
Halifax, NS
craftnovascotia.ca
HRcommittee@craftnovascotia.ca

Facebook @craftnovascotia
Instagram @craftnovascotia

Accessibility:
Craft Nova Scotia’s Mary E. Black Gallery and offices are fully accessible.

Image Description: A contemporary art gallery with textile artworks by Libbie Farrell hanging on white walls, a bench in the center, and a glass door labeled “Craft Nova Scotia” on the right.