Direct Marketing Assistant

This seasonal student position reports to the Direct Marketing Manager and is part of the Marketing team.   

Responsibilities:   

• Assist with marketing activities with a particular focus on executing email campaigns.  Assist with revenue maximization activities;
• Set up email campaigns in Wordfly, test and deploy. Track campaign results. These campaigns will include DM follow up, e-newsletters, and various ad hoc campaigns;
• Assist with special offers and promotions focused on driving attendance in soft houses identified in Revenue Maximization meetings.  Track results;
• Assist with updates to ongoing discount programs - Staff offers, STAR, Play On, etc.

Qualifications:

• Attention to detail, well organized;
• Able to multi-task;
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal;
• Goal driven and self-motivated;
• Creative, excelling in new ideas;
• Able to work independently;
• Knowledge of email marketing systems;
• Ability to work collaboratively.

Preference will be given to candidates who are enrolled or have completed a post-secondary degree or diploma program majoring in Marketing or a related field. 

This seasonal student position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin May 2020 until August 2020.

Job Type: Seasonal contract (May - August)

Graphic Design Manager  

This position reports to the Associate Director, Brand and is part of the Marketing team. As a seasoned designer and creative force, this position is responsible for leading the Design team to produce innovative concepts and execute design and marketing projects for the Stratford Festival.  

Responsibilities:

• Design and produce marketing materials and collateral for the Festival, including all traditional and digital assets
• Provide senior design and art direction
• Manage department budget and resource allocation, including quote and spec work
• Manage and implement all marketing production schedules
• Monitor quality control and workflow across creative team
• Provide creative direction for website
• Oversee photographic displays and signage
• Support the Associate Director, Brand to reach departmental goals and objectives

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary degree or diploma or equivalent and experience in a field related to Graphic Design, Marketing
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a graphic design management role, preferably aligned with the arts or destination marketing
• Up-to-date with industry trends and Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Bridge, Lightroom. Working experience and/or knowledge of Adobe Animate
• Imaginative, creative thinker with the ability to multi-task and meet tight deadlines
• Superior communication skills, both written and verbal
• Flexibility and willingness to take on new challenges
• Drive and passion for the arts
• Proven ability to work and excel in a fast paced work environment
• A solid leader who demonstrates professionalism and teamwork
• Positive, enthusiastic role model
• Effective team player with experience working with multiple stakeholders

Preference will be given to candidates with graphic design management experience.

This full time position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin as soon as possible.

Job Type: Full Time

Student Gardener 

The Student Gardener will work under the direction of the Head Gardener.   They will share in the responsibilities of maintaining the Stratford Festival grounds and properties including the main Festival Theatre property, the Avon/Studio Theatre gardens, the Tom Patterson Theatre gardens and the Brunswick St. Warehouse facility. The grounds consist of extensive perennial beds, annuals, rose and carpet beds and the lawns that surround all the Festival Theatre buildings.

Responsibilities:

• Perform general grounds and plant maintenance including, grass cutting, raking, edging, weeding, trimming, watering, mulching, planting, pond maintenance and other care for the lawns, gardens and container plants
• Clean up and removal of litter, leaves and debris from the grounds
• Power washing the sidewalks and parking surfaces
• Painting of exterior fixtures, handrails
• Assist Gardeners with other gardening tasks and duties as directed

Qualifications:

• Interest in gardening and ground care are preferred
• Past experience operating powered equipment such as leaf blowers, grass trimmers and lawn mowers with an interest in gardening and ground care are preferred
• Excellent verbal communication skills are expected as interaction with the public is required
• You must be able to work flexible hours including days, weekends and holidays
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the job including: bending, lifting utilizing hand tools and working in various weather conditions
• Must provide own CSA approved footwear

This seasonal student position is a full time position located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin immediately until Labour Day with weekend work until November 2020.

Job Type: Seasonal Contract

Video Production Assistant  

This seasonal student position reports to the Video Production Manager and is part of the Marketing team. This position is responsible for assisting the digital team with the production of behind-the-scenes content for digital and online audiences.     

Responsibilities:

• Assist with behind-the-scenes photography & videography.
• Manage digital assets (adhere to internal systems; posting to website & social; tags/descriptions/copy)
• Participate in Digital Planning Meetings.
• Edit and shoot video
• Record and edit audio
• Operate live camera during livestreams and Forum events
• Digital display content creation, concept through realization
• Editing (Premiere Pro)
• Animation (After Effects)
• Duties as assigned within the marketing department

Qualifications:

• Attention to detail, well organized
• Able to multi-task
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Goal driven and self-motivated
• Creative, excelling in new ideas
• Able to work independently and within a team environment
• Familiarity with and understanding of social media marketing campaigns
• Familiarity with DSLR cameras, 3 axis gimbals, lighting and audio
• Familiarity with multi-camera shooting and editing  

Preference will be given to candidates who are enrolled or have completed a post-secondary degree or diploma program majoring in Marketing, Graphics, Digital Media or a related field.  

This seasonal student position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin Mid-March/Early April 2020 until August 2020.

  Job Type: Seasonal contract (Mid-March/Early April - August) 

Associate Director, Food & Beverage  

Reporting to the Director of Audience Development, your primary responsibility will be to plan and direct the Stratford Festival's food and beverage operations. Your portfolio will include extensive food and beverage operations, with a staff cafeteria, licensed café, multiple bars and a robust catering business.    

The successful candidate will provide leadership to the Executive Chef and the Bar & Events Manager who together oversee the recruitment, training, and performance management of over 50 seasonal chefs and service staff. 

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the annual plan for the Festival's food and beverage operations with an eye to optimizing revenue and enhancing the on-site experience.
• Represent the Festival to internal and external contacts on all facets related to its food and beverage offering.
• Negotiate vendor contracts, and when appropriate, coordinate with the Festival's corporate sponsorship team.
• Establish internal policies and procedures, working closely with the Finance department to implement purchasing and inventory controls.
• Hire, train and manage all staff and supervisors, motivating them to sales targets and service objectives.
• Lead all facets of alcohol sales including up-to-date knowledge of evolving regulations and all facets of facility licensing requirements.
• Contribute to the broader guest experience, working collaboratively with managers and staff across the Festival to deliver seamless enhancement to their visit.
• Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years management experience in the event, restaurant, or hospitality sector with proven leadership skills.
• Post-Secondary education in a recognized Food and Beverage/ Hospitality or related field, plus advanced knowledge of all regulations affecting the food service and liquor sales industry.
• Ability to build rapport and effective relationships with internal and external customers as well as staff.
• Ability to work in high pressured situations and apply solid problem solving skills.
• Ability to delegate and work independently anticipating event and team needs
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and events simultaneously.
• Advanced financial acumen to ensure accurate forecasting and ongoing alignment to budgets.

This full time position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin immediately.  This position will require evening and weekend work, particularly through the performance Season.

Job Type: Full Time

Payroll/Human Resources Administrator

This position reports to the Human Resources Manager and is part of the Human Resources team.  The Human Resources Administrator will provide administrative support for Human Resources, Payroll and the Accommodations team. 

Responsibilities:

• Assist with preparing for and administrating payroll 
• Assist with completing required government reporting, Records of Employment, and related forms and remittances
• Data entry and balancing of bi-weekly Greenroom deductions in preparation for payroll processing
• Coordinate annual Loyal Service Reception and Dinner and Backstage Shadowing Program
• Update and ensure accuracy of employee communications notice boards in all buildings and intranet
• Manage employee and contractor email distribution lists
• Distribute News Items and other All Staff emails as requested
• Administer employee compassion program and acknowledge employee life events, including cards, notes, donations, and gifts as appropriate
• Arrange orientation and other training programs and maintain training records
• Coordinate and arrange departmental Roundtable sessions with Executive and Artistic Directors
• Assist with the maintenance of HR system
• Assist with full cycle recruitment: screening applications, setting up interviews and reference checking
• Assist with onboarding new and returning seasonal staff, artists and contractors
• Review and update job descriptions
• Assist Company Accommodations Supervisor with administrative tasks such as organizing the cleaning of the Festival's rental properties and coordinating tenant's moving schedules
• Assist in arranging furnishing for  the Festival's rental properties  

 Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1-2 years' experience working in Human Resources/Payroll Administration
• Strong administration skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Motivated and proactive team player with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Organized and detail oriented with excellent time management skills
• Experience with and or working knowledge of Ceridian Dayforce is an asset

Preference will be given to candidates with a College Diploma or University Degree in Human Resources and/or Payroll.

This full time position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin as soon as possible.

Job Type: Full Time

Senior Director, Advancement   

Head and Heart

What makes the Stratford Festival the largest and most popular repertory theatre in North America?  

The simple, immediate, and very human connection between actor and audience. In a world tightly filtered by electronics, constrained by screens, and controlled by hidden interests, the Stratford Festival consistently surprises, delights, and challenges.   

Four magnificent theatres, the Festival mounts at least a dozen productions annually, in four distinctive venues. With Shakespeare at the foundation of each season's playbill, it explores every theatrical style and period imaginable, from new works to the Greeks, from comedy to tragedy, from shameless farce to jaw-dropping musical theatre.  

Thanks to the unique repertory model, in any single day an audience member can choose from up to eight different productions and from a vast array of Forum offerings. Such rich variety is one reason why Stratford is an annual theatre and holiday destination for thousands from across North America and beyond.  

Above all, the Festival's artists are among the finest there are - and the work of its actors, dancers, musicians, designers, and directors is supported by the unparalleled talent, drive, and creativity of extraordinary craftspeople behind the scenes.  

No wonder that the Stratford Festival is one of the most treasured and influential theatre companies anywhere in the world.  

The City of Stratford

The city of Stratford got its name in 1835, long before it became associated with Shakespeare or the theatre.  

As vibrant as the Festival itself, Stratford offers its 30,000 residents:  

• An affordable range of lifestyle options and real estate choices
• Excellent shopping, from distinctive boutiques to big-box convenience
• First-class public elementary and secondary schools, as well as four private schools
• The Stratford campuses of the University of Waterloo and Conestoga College
• The Stratford Chefs School
• A stunning array of top-flight restaurants
• Weekend farmers' markets
• Passenger train service by VIA Rail
• Direct buses to downtown Toronto (during the Festival season) and Pearson International Airport
• The beautiful Avon River - and of course those iconic swans!
• Stratford Summer Music and SpringWorks Indie Theatre & Arts
• Stratford General Hospital
• A full range of sports facilities
• Thriving local industries in agriculture and auto parts manufacturing
• Two local radio stations and the daily newspaper, The Beacon Herald

National Geographic Traveler calls Stratford "the type of walkable wholesome town Rodgers and Hammerstein might write a musical about. 

Title                             Senior Director, Advancement  

Organization               Stratford Festival  

Reports to                   Executive Director and Artistic Director  

Location                      Stratford, Ontario  

Team                            2 Major Gift Managers, Planned Giving Manager, General Membership Manager, Playwright's Circle Manager, Researcher, Special Events Manager, 4 Support Positions  

Key Relationships       Board Chair and Board of Governors, Chair of the Advancement Committee, Chairs, other fundraising committees, Stratford Shakespearean Festival Endowment Foundation, Executive Director, Artistic Director, Stratford Festival Executive Team 

The Organization

Embracing a 67-year heritage of tradition and innovation, the Stratford Festival seeks to bring theatre alive for increasingly diverse audiences, pursue new artistic avenues, and expand the scope and reach of work beyond the stage itself. As part of this effort, the theatre also presents The Meighen Forum, a season-long program of events and activities that complement the playbill; conducts an artistic R&D program entitled the Laboratory; and is midway through a ten-year project - unique in North America - to film all of Shakespeare's plays.   

With an annual budget of $65 million, the Festival earns 95% of its revenue through ticket sales, fundraising, and ancillary activities, making it one of the most self-sufficient cultural organizations on the continent.     

A registered charity, the Festival has built an $80-million endowment fund to support operating activities, including training, education outreach, play development, and capital projects.   

The $100-million Spirit of the Tent campaign supports the construction and operation of the new Tom Patterson Theatre, which will open for the 2020 season. This 600-seat state-of-the-art facility will both affirm and vastly enhance the Festival's position as a dynamic world leader in the development and production of live theatre.   

By attracting the finest talent from Canada and around the world and by providing the conditions and training that enable artists to achieve their most courageous work, the Festival immerses audiences in a theatregoing experience that is innovative, entertaining, and unsurpassed anywhere in the world, one that is deeply relevant to, and reflective of, our lives and communities.   

Reaching for the Stars

In 2019, the Festival's Board approved a strategic plan entitled "Reaching for the Stars." Articulating the Festival's aspiration to be the world's leading destination theatre, drawing a diversity of audiences and artists for theatrical experiences that delight, enrich, and inspire, the plan sets out a series of ambitious targets pertaining to the work, the audiences, and the organization, and provides a foundation for annual plans for the next five years.  

The Opportunity

This is a rare chance to advance the financial and reputational strength of one of the most important arts organizations in the English-speaking world. With the successful conclusion of the $100-million Spirit of the Tent campaign in sight and a new strategic plan in hand, the new Senior Director, Advancement will have the rare opportunity to work with the Board and Executive Team in assessing evolving needs and challenges, setting goals, devising appropriate approaches, and developing a new Strategic Advancement Plan.  

You will bring a passion for the performing arts to the Stratford Festival's vibrant senior leadership team, where you will report to and work closely with the Executive Director and Artistic Director. The Senior Director, Advancement will oversee the fundraising plan for the Stratford Festival, including the annual fund, long-term fundraising (endowment), major gifts, special appeals, membership, and major campaigns.   

With responsibility for setting fundraising goals and development plans, the Senior Director will work closely with the Board Chair, with the Chair of the Advancement Committee and other fundraising committees, and with the Executive Director and the Artistic Director.   

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Participate in strategic and operational planning for the Festival, with an eye to relationship-building and fundraising opportunities.
• Establish, implement, and evaluate short- and long-range departmental objectives, policies, and operating procedures to ensure goals are met or exceeded in all aspects of Festival advancement, including the annual fund, long-term fundraising (endowment), major gifts, and special events.
• In association with the Executive Director, establish the annual fundraising goal and develop a specific plan and budget to attain this objective. Identify, recommend, and implement strategies that can be realistically employed to reach established goals. Assemble measurement criteria for each fundraising team. Report on revenue achievement at Board and Advancement Committee meetings.
• Direct and assist members of the Festival's Board of Governors and other fundraising volunteers in meeting revenue goals. In association with the Chair of the Advancement Committee, schedule regular meetings of the Committee and staff to ensure alignment and achievement of these goals. Attend related meetings and present reports as required to the Board of Governors, the Finance Committee, the Executive Team, and the Endowment Foundation.
• Support the work of the Nomination Committee of the Board by identifying prospective Board members and helping to cultivate candidates and orient new Board members.
• Spearhead stewardship and cultivation efforts with the Festival's donors and potential donors. Serve as the primary steward of the Festival's major donors. Manage the "moves management" matrix and support the Board and staff in building donor relationships.
• Promote a culture of high performance and continuous improvement, develop Advancement staff using a supportive and collaborative approach, and provide direct guidance and supervision in the execution of department activities. The Senior Director will be responsible for staff performance and development goals, establishing priorities, and conducting annual performance reviews.
• Develop and update fundraising policies, including gift acceptance, naming, and acknowledgements, among others, and ensure adherence to these policies. Ensure compliance with the Canada Revenue Agency and Internal Revenue Service in executing fundraising activities.
• In coordination with the Festival's Administrative Director, pursue government grant opportunities such as the Endowment Incentives Component of the Canada Cultural Investment Fund and others as appropriate.
• Develop fundraising materials for both the promotion and solicitation of fundraising needs. Collaborate with the Marketing department on the development of the annual communication/solicitation plan.
• Co-operate as required with members of the Festival's management and staff to achieve the Festival's goals. Attend management meetings of the Festival's senior staff.
• Represent the Festival in a dignified and professional manner at all donor-related activities. This includes attending opening night performances, fundraising events, and other Festival functions as required.
• Ensure that all program standards are met or exceeded and that all program opportunities are maximized. Develop procedures with staff to ensure all programs are implemented in a productive and efficient manner. This includes technological advances and upgrades, as well as office procedures. Monitor and evaluate these procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.    

Candidate Competencies

• Demonstrated passion for the arts and an alignment with the Stratford Festival's mission, which is to ensure that the Festival is the premier classical theatre destination renowned for both excellence and innovation
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills that foster meaningful relationships with donors and prospects. Experience in making in-person solicitations with prospective donors and proven success in forging relationships with major donors
• Organizational skills that allow for the successful management of a portfolio of several hundred prospects and donors
• Experience with both Canadian and American fundraising models, trends, and innovative techniques. Understanding of differing approaches and attitudes toward giving in each country and of multi-generational approaches to philanthropy
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage complex events
• Excellent writing and proposal skills
• Imaginative and innovative approaches to the development of new giving opportunities
• Strong financial ability to develop budget and manage expenses
• Excellent staff management skills and team leadership
• Clear understanding of the relationship and synergies between marketing and advancement activities
• Ability to work well with the Executive Director, the Artistic Director, and the Board of Governors
• High professional standards, with an acute attention to detail.

 Candidate Qualifications   

• Minimum 10 years' relevant and progressive senior leadership experience with a mature fundraising team within a not-for-profit environment, preferably in the arts
• Extensive experience in managing a complex portfolio of hundreds of prospects at various stages of relationship with an organization
• Experience in working with prospects, donors, and senior volunteers from both Canada and the United States
• Interest in innovative approaches to fundraising that reflect changing practices, preferences, and demographics of diverse prospect spheres
• Proven track record in setting and reaching financial goals
• Strong communication skills - oral and written
• Strong financial acumen
• A practical, calm, and creative problem-solver and strategic thinker, with the flexibility to react nimbly to the unexpected
• Results-oriented personality with a collegial management approach and high level of integrity
• Disciplined, accepting ownership with a hands-on approach
• University degree or equivalent education and experience in a field related to business or marketing. Master's degree and CFRE preferred        

Annual Salary: $150,000-$175,000 (commensurate with experience)

How to Apply   

Please submit your application by emailing your cover letter and résumé no later than March 31, 2020, to: cathy@phcap.ca.  

For more information, please contact Cathy Preston at Preston Human Capital Group at 416-871-1300.   

The Stratford Festival is an equal-opportunity employer and strongly values diversity, including gender and sexual diversity, within its community. The Festival is committed to reflecting our city's and country's diversity. We are pleased to accept applications from under-represented groups and encourage applications from Indigenous persons, youth, new immigrants, and persons with disabilities. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.     

Preston Human Capital Group
2 St Clair Ave W 18th floor
Toronto, Ontario M4V 1L5 Canada    

Theatre Camp Counsellor - Assistant Director

This position reports to the Education Administrative Manager and is part of the Education team, Theatre Arts Camp.   

Responsibilities:

• Provide instructional support to the directors of the Stratford Festival's Theatre Arts Camp
• Mentor students enrolled in the program
• Research and assemble supporting materials for chosen script
• Lead warm-ups and class exercises
• Act as the Stage Manager/Prompter for the camp's final performance
• Stay in residence alongside participants
• Ensure safety of all students enrolled in the program

  Qualifications:

• Previous camp or recreation experiences working with grade 7-12 students
• Emergency First Aid/CPR/AED certification
• Motivated, energetic, cooperative and enthusiastic
• Responsible and hardworking
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• A desire to develop a practical knowledge of Shakespearean text and/or musical theatre and to further develop teaching skills in drama

Preference will be given to candidates with at least two years post-secondary education in theatre, teaching and/or arts education. Candidates must have a current Emergency First Aid/CPR/AED certificate. 

Qualified applicants will be required to produce a clear current criminal reference check, for the vulnerable sector, as part of the recruitment process. 

This seasonal contract position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin July 2020.

Job Type: Seasonal Contract

Theatre Camp Counsellor - Residence Facilitator

This position reports to the Education Administrative Manager and is part of the Education team, Theatre Arts Camp.   

Responsibilities:

• Operate as mentors and chaperones to students enrolled in the Stratford Festival's Theatre Arts Camp
• Ensure safety of all students enrolled in the program
• Stay in residence alongside participants
• Supervise students
• Plan and run activities outside instructional time

Qualifications:

• Previous camp or recreation experiences working with grade 7-12 students
• Emergency First Aid/CPR/AED certification
• Motivated, energetic, cooperative and enthusiastic
• Responsible and hardworking
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Effective and supportive team player
• A desire to further develop teaching skills in drama

Preference will be given to candidates with at least two years of post-secondary education in theatre, teaching and/or arts education. Candidates must have a current Emergency First Aid/CPR/AED certificate. 

Qualified applicants will be required to produce a clear current criminal reference check, for the vulnerable sector, as part of the recruitment process. 

This seasonal contract position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin July 2020.

Job Type: Seasonal Contract