JOB POSTING II Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre - Executive Director

The JCCC is seeking a forward-thinking, energetic, and entrepreneurial leader who will be a visible champion for the organization and its pride of place in the cultural and wider community of Toronto and Canada.

THE ORGANIZATION

Founded in 1963, the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre (JCCC) is a not-for-profit organization that celebrates the unique culture and history of Japan, and the legacy of Japanese Canadians for the benefit of all Canadians. The JCCC is recognized worldwide as an important and vibrant community institution.

Friendship through Culture: In executing our mission, we take pride in our heritage, creating a lasting tribute to the unique history and contributions of past generations; we bridge generations as the means for the continuing evolution of our community, and we demonstrate the importance of tolerance and acceptance of cultural diversity for the benefit of all Canadians.

THE POSITION

The JCCC is seeking a forward-thinking, energetic, and entrepreneurial leader who will be a visible champion for the organization and its pride of place in the cultural and wider community of Toronto and Canada. The Executive Director (ED) will be a transformative champion for JCCC’s exhibition, educational, and program offerings. They will be comfortable representing the JCCC to various Canadian and Japanese public bodies and individual stakeholders and, in conjunction with the Board Chair/President, will be the public face of the organization. The ED will work closely with the Board Chair/President, will report to the board and will provide strategic direction, executive leadership, and administrative guidance. Advancing the mission, vision, and values of the JCCC, the ED will support governance practices initiated by the Board, policy making, and community and donor relations. They will collaborate with the Board and staff to generate revenues and funding, resulting in dynamic and accessible exhibitions, festivals and programs. The new leader will be primarily responsible for all aspects of the JCCC’s operations and will be accountable for empowering, guiding, and mentoring a highly motivated team of staff and volunteers. The successful candidate will possess the experience, knowledge, and vision to take the JCCC forward into an exciting and impactful organization with an increasingly important place in the cultural landscape.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Leadership: In collaboration with the Board of Directors and senior management, develop and evolve strategic planning and lead the implementation of operational plans and budgets. Recruit, develop, and lead a senior management team with appropriate skills and experience to achieve the JCCC’s strategic objectives.
2. Advocacy & Development: Act as the face, voice, and inspirational spokesperson for JCCC in tandem with the Board Chair/President. Maintain, sustain and enrich strong relationships with the Japanese Canadian Community (i.e. descendants of pre-WW2 Japanese immigrants) and Shin Nikkei community. Sustain and expand JCCC’s networks and partnerships in the community and with other cultural institutions in Canada and beyond, furthering JCCC’s reputation and visible presence in the local and global cultural scene.
3. Human Resources: Foster the spirit of “friendship through culture” through all aspects of operations. Provide leadership and development in all areas of the JCCC including Heritage, Administration, Martial Arts and Cultural Programs, Art Gallery, Event Management, Clubs, Rentals, Building Management, and Commercial Leasing. Manage the human resources of the JCCC (in total, approximately 16 employees at present) by implementing appropriate systems for selecting, developing, motivating, and evaluating all staff.
4. Board Relations: Assist the Board Chair/President, as requested, to ensure that the Board receives the support it requires to fulfill its governance function and fiduciary role. Provide the Board, as requested, with timely, sound advice and information to promote efficient and effective decision-making. Attend all JCCC Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: Friday, February 28, 2025

COMPENSATION

A competitive compensation package including base salary and bonus (combined range between $175,000 to $190,000) and benefits will be provided, commensurate with experience. The position is based in the JCCC’s offices in Don Mills (Toronto), Ontario. While the individual will usually work in an office environment, the mission of the organization may sometimes take the ED to non-standard workplaces. The ED will typically work a standard work week, but will often work evenings, weekends, and additional hours to accommodate activities such as events, Board meetings and representing the organization at public events.