Director, Signature Events – CANADIAN OPERA COMPANY

Reporting to the Executive Director, Philanthropy & Audiences, the Director, Signature Events will be an integral member of the Philanthropy & Audiences team working collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers, and donors on key signature events and smaller complementary events. As a dynamic, goal-oriented leader dedicated to shaping exceptional event experiences, the Director will focus on bringing people into COC’s vibrant and eye-catching event spaces, finding new ways for people to experience the art form.

Working closely with the Executive Director, Philanthropy & Audiences to develop strategy, the Director will craft innovative event concepts, and oversee all aspects of event management and volunteer recruitment to meet fundraising goals while enhancing donor relations and public engagement. As a visionary in event planning and execution, the Director will bring a combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and hands-on event management skills to lead the Signature Event portfolio with energy and excellence.

ABOUT CANADIAN OPERA COMPANY

Based in Toronto, the Canadian Opera Company is the largest producer of opera in Canada and one of the largest in North America. General Director Perryn Leech joined the company in 2021, forming a leadership team with Music Director Johannes Debus and Deputy General Director Christie Darville.

The COC enjoys a loyal audience, including a dedicated base of subscribers, and has an international reputation for artistic excellence and creative innovation. Its diverse repertoire includes new commissions and productions, local and international collaborations with leading opera companies and festivals, and attracts the world’s foremost Canadian and international artists.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure the execution of high-quality special events that advance the COC’s brand and donor engagement, while achieving financial and fundraising goals as outlined in annual plans.
• Direct and manage signature and campaign events, ensuring successful solicitation of corporate partnerships and in-kind support.
• Oversee the entire event lifecycle including the development of innovative ideas, critical paths and budgets, assignment of responsibilities, management of logistics and execution, and event evaluation.
• Maintain professional standards in all interactions with COC Executive, government officials, donors, and patrons.
• Liaise with the COC’s creative agency and Philanthropy & Audiences team on sponsorship proposals, event websites, invitations, collateral materials, email promotions, signage, and speaking remarks and presentations.
• Build and maintain strong cross-departmental relationships essential for the success of the event portfolio.
• Collaborate with external committees and agencies, demonstrating effective communication skills and professionalism.
• Facilitate the volunteer committee solicitation process, identifying prospects, engaging them, and supporting committees to achieve event objectives.
• Strategically assess current and emerging trends in event planning, finding opportunities to elevate and enhance engagement.
• Coordinate with suppliers for event logistics and material production.
• Establish and maintain connections with event venues, marketing and event agencies, and organizations in the arts, culture, and tourism sectors.
• Manage in-kind partnerships and event sponsorships.

QUALIFICATIONS AND KEY COMPETENCIES

• Progressive, substantial event management experience, including a minimum of six years of experience in event management.
• Demonstrated experience recruiting key volunteers and management of formal event committees.
• Strong and efficient project management skills with the ability to organize and manage a diverse range of assignments and projects with high efficiency and meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent budget and revenue forecasting skills.
• Demonstrated resourcefulness and independence, while being adept at working within the framework of an integrated development program in a team-oriented environment.
• Proven ability to evaluate a portfolio of events, strategically and creatively identifying areas for opportunity and growth.
• Digital event proficiency, including experience managing digital events and familiarity with digital event management platforms.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with appropriate discretion.
• Clear understanding of and strict adherence to ethical fundraising standards.
• Strong communication and analytical skills, including exceptional analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Robust strategic-thinking capabilities and advanced problem-solving skills.
• Superior project management abilities with a focus on prioritization and efficiency.
• Demonstrated learner mindset that welcomes feedback and strives for excellence.
• Passion for philanthropy and mission focused.
• Knowledge of trends and emerging practices within fundraising and events.
• Strong facility using Microsoft Office.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends to accommodate after-hours events and meetings.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

KCI Search + Talent has been retained to conduct this search on behalf of the Canadian Opera Company. For more information about this opportunity, please contact Jill Anderson at KCI Search + Talent via email at

Interested candidates are invited to send a resume and letter of interest to the email address listed above by April 4, 2024 . All inquiries and applications will be held in strict confidence.

The target hiring range for this role is $130,000 – $140,000, and group benefits are also provided.

The Canadian Opera Company deeply values equity and diversity across all levels of the organization and believes in fostering an inclusive, discrimination-free environment that fully supports our team’s personal and collective success. We are committed to building a workforce that reflects our community, our city, and our country and, in turn, the Canadian Opera Company welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and abilities who share and embrace these values of anti-racism and inclusion.

The Canadian Opera Company is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) in all parts of the hiring process. If you require an accommodation, please let the Search Consultant know and we will work with you to meet your needs.