Application Deadline: Sunday, January 12, 2020

Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art is seeking applications for the full-time position of Executive Director/Curator.

Plug In is a dynamic, internationally recognized, and award-winning centre that researches and presents exhibitions, publications, seminars, workshops, youth programs, screenings, performances and events. Plug In is Canada’s oldest recognized Institute of Contemporary Art with a 47-year history of visionary programming.

As an ICA, Plug In emphasizes the importance of creating space for research by artists, writers and curators, while also expanding audiences for contemporary art. We welcome candidates committed to broadening cultural perspectives and championing diversity.

The Executive Director/Curator will provide organizational leadership and shape strategic initiatives in the ongoing development of Plug In’s artistic programs. They will provide artistic and curatorial direction while overseeing design, marketing, production, interpretation, outreach, publishing and program evaluation. The Executive Director/Curator is responsible for the overall management of operations, facilities, budgets, fundraising, programs and partnerships.

Plug In is situated on Treaty 1 land: the territories of the Cree, Dakota, Dene, Metis and Oji-Cree Nations, the ancestral homeland of the Anishinaabeg and the birthplace of the Metis Nation. Plug In seeks candidates who have personal knowledge of, experience with, and/or are committed to addressing the history of racism and violence that underwrites its occupation of this land.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership in the Arts: Responsible for the overall directorship of Plug In, with proven ability to engage diverse stakeholders in achieving a broad vision. Develop and maintain relationships with external organizations and contacts (funders, institutions, professionals) and maintain a personal and critical practice as a professional in visual arts. Actively participate in local, national and international cultural communities.

Curatorial and Artistic Programming: Generate risk-taking programming and production. Manage Plug In Editions. Collaborate with and support staff in program and production activities including exhibitions, publications and public programs.

Fundraising and Funding: Collaborate with the Grant Writer, prepare and submit all funding requests and reports (operations, capital, project). Lead and assist the board of directors in a variety of fund development activities.

Human Resources: Direct and oversee human resources management, including supervising all staff, conducting performance reviews and engaging in recruitment, retention and termination.

Financial Management: Direct and oversee all financial matters, including management of cash flow, budgeting, auditing and accounting, public and private-sector fundraising, insurance and risk management. Work with the Operations Manager and oversee all banking, insurance and security matters, along with all Plug In facilities. Negotiate all contracts and agreements entered into by Plug In.

Governance: Initiate and lead the preparation of policy, procedure and strategic planning. Report to the board of directors on all relevant matters, including artistic, financial and legal, ensuring strategic priorities are met. Implement goals, objectives and policies as determined by the board of directors. Provide all information necessary to properly fulfill board responsibilities. Participate in board committees.

Requirements

Work Experience: Long-term commitment to contemporary art. Proven curatorial experience, including the presentation of national and international solo and group exhibitions; the production and facilitation of touring exhibitions; publishing experience, including the editing and writing for exhibition catalogues and critical art texts. Proven leadership abilities. Experience working with funding agencies. Experience in fundraising for operations, projects and capital needs.

Skills: Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking. Financial management and accounting, with ability to promote financial sustainability. Advanced planning, problem-solving, decision-making and organizational skills. Capacity to be self-directed and to lead and work co-operatively with others in an open-concept office environment. Discretion and capacity to maintain confidentiality.

Knowledge: Extensive knowledge in contemporary art and visual culture. Knowledge of all aspects of operations, program implementation and events creation.

Salary

This is a salaried position that requires availability during office hours and scheduled programming events. Compensation commensurate with successful candidate experience. Benefits package with travel allowance included.

TO APPLY:

Please email your cover letter and CV, including telephone contact information for three professional references, with the subject heading: “Search Committee” to search@plugin.org. No queries please.

The application deadline is midnight on Sunday, January 12, 2020.

Plug In encourages applications from qualified candidates from visible and invisible minority group members, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons across the spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. We are committed to hiring on merit and to removing barriers in employment policies. Should you require accommodation during the interview process, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art is designated as a not-for-profit public art gallery and Institute of Contemporary Art, Federally Registered Charity # 119095016RR0001.