Canada's cultural sector is undergoing rapid and intensive transformation, creating an exciting opportunity for leaders who are committed to and passionate about strengthening this field. 

Shifting public interest, the changing role of civic institutions in society, and the impact of technology are just a few forces altering what it means to be an artistic, creative or cultural organization today. Leading such an organization is complex, and requires a profound understanding of the communities that organization serves, and the systems in which it operates. 

Banff Centre's Cultural Leadership program is uniquely positioned to equip participants with the competencies, skills, and frameworks to navigate the complexity of, and explore leadership within, the Canadian cultural sector. The program builds skills, networks, and contextual knowledge to help leaders make a lasting impact.

This program was developed and is offered in collaboration with Canada’s first Artistic Leadership Development Program at the National Theatre School in Montreal, QC. Significant funding, up to full program tuition, meals, and accommodation underwriting, is available. To request financial assistance, please see additional information in the How to Apply section, below.

What does the program offer?

Cultural Leadership includes four on-site intensives (three in Banff, one in Montreal) as well as workshops, seminars, and projects that may take place virtually or across Canada. The seven-month program features applied learning, small group work, reflective practice, large group forums, interactive processes, lectures, and case-study analysis. 

The program director and facilitator will be with participants throughout the year as learning coaches. In addition, for each session and topic area, participants will be joined by academic guest lecturers and faculty, domain experts, experiential educators, and artists from across disciplines, sectors, and the world.

Cultural Leadership is designed to:

• assist a cohort of cultural leaders to understand and explore the increasingly complex and interdependent cultural environment in which they operate
• equip them with the competencies, skills, and conceptual frameworks to navigate the landscape of the Canadian cultural sector
• develop awareness of and build networks that enable them to succeed

Who should apply?

Leaders interested in honing and developing a comprehensive set of competencies to prepare them for significant leadership roles within the artistic and/or cultural sectors, including both for and not-for-profit organizations, collectives, and non-traditional partnerships. Applicants should:

• have some demonstrated leadership experience, and an ability to recognize opportunities and design and implement solutions
• be actively pursuing or considering cultural leadership opportunities (roles or projects) of increasing scale and complexity
• be an outspoken, active, and recognized advocate within their respective artistic or cultural communities
• be willing to take risks, reimagine possibilities, and be curious and eager to learn
• approach work and relationships with a spirit of sharing and generosity
• believe in the role of cultural organizations as civic institutions that foster community growth, development, and wellbeing

About Banff Centre Leadership programs

Banff Centre Leadership programs integrate the power of the arts, the wisdom of Indigenous practice, and the extraordinary beauty of Banff National Park to prepare and empower the next generation of Canadian leaders.

Programs help participants bring creative and reflective approaches to a rapidly changing world, and connect leaders with others who share their commitment to positive change in Canadian Indigenous communities, businesses, non-profit organizations, cultural institutions, and government.

https://www.banffcentre.ca/programs/cultural-leadership/20171101