Board of Directors
Job Title: Member of the Board of Directors
Application Deadline : May 18th 2025
About the Ottawa Pops Orchestra
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra is a semi-professional community orchestra dedicated to performing accessible and relevant music. We are passionate about redefining the modern orchestral experience through innovative performances. Our mission is to foster the next generation of musicians, redefine the orchestral experience, and create a sense of community in the Ottawa-Gatineau Region.
The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the orchestra and planning for the future. It plays a key role in supporting operations through ongoing outreach, fundraising activities, and financial management. Board directors donate their time and varied expertise to committees and projects to help make the entire organization a success.
Board Position Overview
We are currently seeking two (2) dedicated and community-minded individuals to join our Board of Directors. This is a volunteer, non-remunerated governance role. Directors are expected to bring their unique skills and leadership to guide the orchestra's mission and long-term sustainability.
Main Responsibilities
Organizational Growth: Foster the ongoing expansion, development, impact, and reach of the organization within the community.
Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate meaningful relationships with patrons, donors, and community partners to enhance the organization’s visibility and reputation.
Financial Oversight: Monitor and safeguard the financial health of the organization in alignment with its mission and artistic vision.
Educational Outreach: Promote music appreciation and awareness through educational initiatives in the National Capital Region.
Advocacy and Representation: Act as a passionate ambassador for the organization, championing its mission, values, and achievements.
Expectations
Regular attendance at board meetings and active participation in discussions and decision-making processes.
Willingness to contribute time and effort to achieve the organization's goals and objectives, including involvement in subcommittees and special projects.
Adherence to the organization's code of conduct, ethics, and conflict of interest policies.
Advocacy for the Ottawa Pops Orchestra within the community and support for fundraising and promotional efforts.
A collaborative spirit, respect for diverse perspectives, and a commitment to community arts.
Commitment and Fundraising
Each board member pledges to fundraise a minimum of $1,000 for the Ottawa Pops Orchestra per term year. Specific board positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary – and optionally Treasurer and President) are decided by the elected board following the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Desired Qualifications
We are searching for passionate and driven individuals with a variety of experiences and/or professional backgrounds, particularly those with experience in either:
Fundraising and Philanthropy
Legal or Governance
Financial Management
Social Enterprise or Non-profit Management
Arts Administration
Marketing and Communications
Education or Community Engagement
Prior board or committee experience is an asset, but not required. A strong belief in the power of the arts and the orchestra’s mission is essential.
Equity and Inclusion
We are committed to representing diverse communities on our Board of Directors. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, new Canadians, IBPOC (Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour), persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2A+ individuals, and members of other racialized or marginalized groups.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to send the following to General Manager Felicia Persaud at felicia.persaud@ottawapopsorchestra.ca by May 18, 2025:
Resume
Brief cover letter describing how your experience, skillset, and knowledge can help advance the Board’s strategic objectives and responsibilities
Two non-familial character references
Newly elected board members will be required to submit a valid level 3 Vulnerable Sector Check from the Ottawa Police Service. An official letter from the Ottawa Pops Orchestra will be provided to facilitate this process.
Next Steps & AGM Details
The new Board of Directors will be elected at this year’s AGM on May 25, 2025, at Perez Hall, University of Ottawa. Candidate resumes and cover letters will be circulated to voting members in advance.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to attend the AGM in person to introduce themselves, explain why they would like to join the board, and share how they can support the organization’s priorities. If in-person attendance is not possible, candidates may submit a video application by May 22, 2025, or request to attend virtually.
For any questions, please contact Felicia Persaud at felicia.persaud@ottawapopsorchestra.ca.
