Executive & Artistic Director, Galleries System [OCAD University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada]

Description

Executive & Artistic Director, Galleries System

OCAD University (OCAD U), Canada’s university of the imagination and Canada’s largest specialized university for art, design, and media, invites nominations and applications for the position of Executive & Artistic Director, Galleries System. Located on a twelve-building campus in the heart of downtown Toronto, OCAD University offers a vibrant and stimulating work environment for over 600 faculty and academic staff, more than 4360 undergraduate students, and over 250 graduate students. Committed to excellence and contemporary approaches to education, research, and creation, OCAD University offers 17 undergraduate programs leading to a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), a Bachelor of Design (BDes) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, and seven graduate programs that result in a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Design (MDes), or Master of Arts (MA). Innovative new programs include the interdisciplinary Digital Futures program offerings and the Indigenous Visual Culture BFA and an MDes in Design for Health. OCAD U offers distinctive Criticism & Curatorial programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The University has experienced remarkable growth over the past five years and has attracted outstanding researchers, creative researchers/practitioners, and gifted teachers who bring to OCAD University their dedication to pedagogical innovation and academic excellence.

Reporting to the President and working closely with internal and external stakeholders, the Executive & Artistic Director, Galleries System is responsible for strategic leadership, artistic direction, promotion, and securing long-term sustainability of the Galleries System at OCAD University. The incumbent will play a key leadership role in shaping and contributing to the current and future creative vision, curatorial leadership and expansion of the OCAD University Galleries System. The gallery system is unique in its combination of visual art, design and new media. The Executive & Artistic Director will oversee the completion of the Onsite Gallery build and position the Galleries System as a leader.

Requirements

The ideal candidate will hold an advanced degree, such as an MA, MFA or MDes in an exhibitions-related field, a PhD would be an asset. They will bring a minimum of ten years’ experience in programming and management in a museum, public gallery, art or design fair, as well as demonstrated fund-raising capabilities from private and public sources and entrepreneurial activities. Proven leadership, organizational skills, budgeting, communication, relationship management and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as a transparent, collaborative leadership style.

An interest in emerging and established diverse contemporary scenes in art, design and/or digital media is essential along with knowledge of public art and a record of gallery/community engagement and ability to work with external boards. Candidates must bring significant knowledge of the international cultural milieu and knowledge of and/or ability to leverage opportunities in the greater Toronto area, Canada and internationally. Experience with public art and design practices, collection management and development, along with knowledge of university-level curatorial studies is preferred. A deep commitment to cultural diversity and indigenous culture with a demonstrated commitment to the principles of equity and diversity and proven ability to deal effectively with a diverse population.

As an employer committed to the principles of employment equity, we encourage applications from women, Aboriginal peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and persons of all sexual orientation or gender identity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

OCAD U is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free experience to applicants with accessibility needs. For more information, please refer to OCAD U’s accommodation policy.

For further information and details on how to apply, please download the Appointment Details via the Perrett Laver website by visiting www.perrettlaver.com/candidates and quoting reference 2403. The closing date for applications is midday on Monday 16^th May, 2016.