Apply to Join the Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society Board of Directors 

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society (VFMFS) is looking for leaders who have a strong desire to make arts and culture a priority in our community to serve on its Board of Directors. We are seeking people who will help build a sustainable base on which our beloved festival can thrive. Come join a fun, collaborative, respectful group of music lovers who are committed to musical discovery, the community, and the environment. Now, more than ever, we need you.

We believe that diverse backgrounds and perspectives will enhance our organization, making us stronger and better.  We want folks of varied cultural backgrounds, identities, ages, and lived experiences to bring their perspectives to our Board.  We are also looking to strengthen key skill sets that are necessary for the festival’s sustainability.  We particularly encourage candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas to apply: 

  • Fundraising, donor, and government relationships 
  • Community engagement
  • Justice, equity, diversity, inclusion & accessibility (JEDI&A)
  • Event and/or non-profit organizations
  • Legal expertise

Prospective candidates are invited to apply via the following process:

  1. Review the Board of Directors Job Description (see below).
  2. Per the Policy & Procedure for Election of Directors:  Candidates for the Board of Directors must be members in good standing of the VFMFS for a minimum of 2 months prior to the AGM.  Ensure you are a member* by donating a minimum of $35 by December 31, 2025. 
  3. Complete the Expression of Interest form (at the end of this document) and submit it along with your CV/resume to board@thefestival.bc.ca 
  4. Attend a Meet and Greet with the Board of Directors.

Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society

Board of Directors Job Description

The Board is composed of 9-12 democratically elected Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society members in good standing. 

The Board advises, governs, oversees policy and direction, and assists with the leadership and general promotion of the Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society so as to support the organization’s mission and needs.  The Board is also working actively to build a viable festival for 2026 and beyond. Directors are therefore expected to commit their time, effort, and skills towards this objective.

Responsibilities 

  • Organizing of the Board of Directors and committees 
  • Providing leadership and advisement 
  • Financial management, including adoption and oversight of the annual budget 
  • Developing and providing oversight of policies and procedures 
  • Hiring and supervision of the Artistic and Executive Directors
  • Fundraising, outreach, and promotion of the organization 
  • Coordinating personnel evaluations and supporting staff during hiring 
  • Oversight of program planning and evaluation 
  • Ensuring the society maintains its JEDI & A values in its decisions

Length of term

  • Board terms are 3 years, able to be renewed once for a maximum of 2 terms (6 years).

Meetings and Time Commitment 

  • Attend and participate in meetings on a regular basis (currently every 2 weeks, though frequency may change as needs change)
  • Standing Committees meet as needed (1-4 hrs/month)
  • Various Board-related tasks, eg. Standing Committee work (3-5 hrs/month)
  • Reply to email requests from staff, Board members, and others in a timely manner 
  • Organize and support events and fundraising efforts 

Expectations of Board Members 

  • Attend and participate in meetings on a regular basis, and special events as needed 
  • Participate in at least one Standing Committee e.g., Fundraising, JEDI&A 
  • Participate in strategic planning processes to review and rewrite purposes and priorities, and assess funding needs
  • Fulfill tasks and responsibilities in a timely manner 
  • Use communication skills that demonstrate respect for different opinions
  • Collaborate to make decisions that are in the best interest in the Society
  • Make an annual donation to the VFMF Society

Desired Skills and Experience 

  • Familiarity with the Vancouver Folk Music Festival
  • Experience and interest supporting the development and implementation of fundraising strategies, activities and events
  • Skills and experience that support the key responsibilities of the Board as listed above; note that each year, depending on existing Board composition and situation, there may be certain skill sets prioritized for recruitment
  • Prior non-profit management and/or board experience is an asset

*Membership in the VFMFS from Sept 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025 constitutes being a member for the purpose of the 2026 AGM.

Click the button below to download the Expression of Interest form.

Download the Expression of Interest Form

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