Director of Festival Operations

Job Description

Organizational Description

OUR VISION: To live in a society in which all gender, sexual, and relationship diverse individuals can live their life without fear or oppression for being themselves.

OUR FOUNDATIONAL VALUES: Diversity, Inclusivity, Safe Spaces, Accessibility, and Sustainability

Volunteer Opportunity Details

Volunteer Opportunity ID: 6037

Position Summary

The Director of Festival Operations is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of Pride Winnipeg's annual festival at The Forks. This role ensures that all operational aspects including logistics, permits, vendors, site management, safety, accessibility, and volunteer coordination are delivered smoothly, efficiently, and in alignment with Pride Winnipeg's mission and values. The Director collaborates closely with other Directors, community partners, and stakeholders to create a safe, inclusive, and vibrant festival experience for all participants.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of Pride Winnipeg's annual festival operations, including the Pride Parade, Festival at The Forks, and related large‑scale events.


• Oversee site logistics, including staging, tents, fencing, security, accessibility, sanitation, power, and transportation.


• Manage permit applications, insurance, and compliance with municipal regulations, safety standards, and accessibility requirements.


• Manage festival operations volunteers, ensuring they are supported and engaged.


• Coordinate with vendors, suppliers, and contractors to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.


• Develop and monitor festival operations budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring cost‑effective use of resources.


• Work collaboratively with the Director, Festival Programming to align programming and operational needs.


• Create and manage operational timelines, run‑of‑show documents, and contingency plans.


• Ensure that all festival operations reflect Pride Winnipeg's mission, values, and brand, with a focus on accessibility, safety, sustainability, and inclusivity.


• Prepare post‑festival reports to evaluate operational success, identify areas for improvement, and inform future planning.


• Represent Pride Winnipeg as a community ambassador, maintaining a positive and professional presence.

Skills / Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in event management, operations, project management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).


• Minimum three years of experience in large‑scale event or festival operations.


• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.


• Experience coordinating logistics for outdoor events, including permits, site planning, and vendor management.


• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate volunteers and teams.


• Strong budgeting and financial management skills.


• Knowledge of accessibility standards, safety regulations, and risk management for large public events.


• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills with diverse stakeholders.


• Knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ community, culture, and issues is a strong asset.


• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours as required during the festival period.

Volunteer Opportunity Details

Age: 18-30, 31-54, 55+

Time Commitment: Daytime, Evening, Weekend, Remote Volunteering, Flexible Hours

Location: Winnipeg – Downtown

Must pass a criminal record check: Yes

Child abuse registry check: No

Eligible candidates may be French speaking / Bilingual (French and English).

Will cost be reimbursed: Yes

Organization will provide: A letter of reference, Training/Orientation.

Additional Information

Volunteer Manitoba is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Anisininew, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge that the clean water we drink comes from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, and that our electricity is produced on treaty territory. Volunteer Manitoba respects the Treaties that were made on these territories; we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

Contact Information

B Suite 511, 428 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 0E2