Manager, Craft & Design

Application Deadline: March 21, 2025

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Harbourfront Centre is a leading cultural institution in Toronto, celebrated for its vibrant arts, cultural, and recreational programs. As a not-for-profit organization, we are committed to enriching the lives of diverse communities through creativity, innovation, and excellence.

We are currently seeking a dynamic, collaborative and inspiring Manager, Craft & Design to lead our Craft and Design department with artistic vision, administrative expertise, and a passion for contemporary craft and design. This role encompasses curatorial responsibilities, program development and departmental management. The successful candidate will work closely with artists, external partners, and internal teams to create innovative exhibitions and programming that inspire and engage our audiences.

 

Position Title: Manager, Craft & Design

Department: Programming

Reporting To: Head of Programming

Direct Reports: 1 plus Artists-in-Residence

Number of Vacancies: 1

Type of Employment: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Compensation: $75,000 – $85,000 annual salary, plus a comprehensive benefits package

Work Location: This position is primarily on-site based at our waterfront campus, with some remote work possible based on organizational need

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide artistic vision and administrative direction for the Craft and Design department.
  • Set departmental objectives and oversee operational, program, and capital budgets.
  • Collaborate with the Strategic Partnerships Department to secure funding, including grants and sponsorships.
  • Manage the physical studio operations, ensuring proper maintenance and acquisition of equipment.
  • Supervise the Craft and Design Coordinator, including hiring, training, performance reviews, and development.
  • Conduct annual formal reviews with Artists-in-Residence (AIR), providing actionable feedback.
  • Chair selection committees for the Artist-in-Residence program, with final decision-making authority.
  • Curate exhibitions for Harbourfront’s gallery spaces (solo, group, and thematic shows).
  • Develop and implement programming such as lectures, masterclasses, symposia, and seminars.
  • Create and manage annual exhibition schedules, including artist invitations and oversight of installations.
  • Foster relationships with external organizations to develop partnerships aligned with our values.
  • Promote the AIR program to students at universities and colleges with craft and design departments.
  • Represent Harbourfront Centre at national and international conferences to network and advocate for craft and design.
  • Provide artistic and professional mentorship to AIRs, addressing concerns and arbitrating conflicts as needed.
  • Advocate for collaboration between craft, design, and art disciplines, seeking opportunities for mutual programming.
  • Provide administrative and technical consultation to national and international organizations.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • A university graduate degree in craft and design or equivalent education and experience.
  • Minimum 5 years in arts/culture administration, with at least 2 years of curatorial experience.
  • Strong knowledge of contemporary craft and design studio practices.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
  • Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency in computer applications and tools related to arts administration.
  • Energetic, self-motivated, results-oriented, and adaptable to new ideas and concepts.
  • This role is based in Toronto. As such, candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada at our waterfront campus. All international applicants must have a valid employment Visa authorizing their ability to work in Canada on a full-time, ongoing basis.

 

Why Join Harbourfront Centre?

Harbourfront Centre offers a vibrant, collaborative environment where creativity thrives. As the Manager of Craft & Design, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our programs while working with a dynamic team and a community of talented artists. If you’re passionate about the arts and driven to make a difference in the craft and design sector, we encourage you to apply.

Our Values

At Harbourfront Centre, our values—Open, Brave, Rigorous, and Kind—reflect our commitment to inclusivity, imaginative risk-taking, excellence, and respect, ensuring enriching experiences for all.

How To Apply

Harbourfront is committed to diversity and inclusiveness. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Acceptable applications must include a current resume and a cover letter including your salary expectations. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by contacting jobs@harbourfrontcentre.com by no later than March 21, 2025. Please quote Manager, Craft & Design in the subject line of your application. 

We extend our thanks to all applicants for their interest, however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. We are committed to a barrier-free recruitment process. Suitable accommodations will be available upon request during the hiring process.