Theatre Calgary’s Board of Directors are pleased to announce JON JACKSON as the new Executive Director of Theatre Calgary. Mr. Jackson is currently the Executive Director with Niagara Falls Tourism. He will officially join Theatre Calgary on June 18, 2018.

Margo Randles, Chairman of the Board, is extremely pleased with the decision. “We were searching for a proven leader that would be a great fit for the culture of Theatre Calgary, and bring complementary skills to effectively co-lead with Stafford Arima. The Board unanimously agreed Jon fit those criteria. He brings strong business skills from his diverse background that will help Theatre Calgary achieve the artistic vision of Stafford Arima, and advance our desire to stand among the best theaters globally.”

“It is an honour to join an organization that has a legacy like Theatre Calgary. Their work over the last 50 years, through their artistic vision, has helped shape and inspire the incredible community that is Calgary,” says Jackson. “Leadership for me is about inspiring and engaging your team. To join the theatre and help strengthen the organization is an incredible opportunity.”

Prior to taking on his role with Niagara Falls Tourism, Jackson resided in Calgary. Coming back was a big factor in taking on this new role. “Calgary is home to me, it is where my children were born, and I can’t wait to return. The city has been incredible to my family, and the opportunity to help strengthen our community through the arts is one I will embrace and take on with care.”

Jackson is also looking forward to working with Artistic Director Stafford Arima. “Stafford is a brilliant artistic visionary, and more importantly, an incredible person. To partner with him as we embark on the journey of creating the next 50 years of legacy for Theatre Calgary will be wonderful.”

Arima shares in the excitement of this announcement. “I’m thrilled about Jon’s arrival at Theatre Calgary; it’s another significant step in our amazing period of growth and evolution. Both Theatre Calgary, and our city, will benefit from his experience, integrity, and passion for the arts. I am excited to begin collaborating with Jon, as we all contribute to the continued expansion of Theatre Calgary’s reputation for artistic excellence and community connections.”

Theatre Calgary engaged Searchlight Recruitment Inc. for this position. According to Daniel Weinzweig, Managing Partner with Searchlight, “The attention generated by the opportunity resulted in applications from across Canada. The selection of Jon Jackson is evidence of Theatre Calgary’s continuing reputation for attracting top talent.”

Jackson’s credentials also include Executive Director of the Calgary Hotel Association, Chief Executive Officer with Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton, Ticket Sales Manager with the Calgary Stampede, and Director of Marketing with Durham Radio. During his time with the Calgary Hotel Association, he received a Globe and Mail Business for the Arts Award (Best Entrepreneurial Partnership) for the Remarkable Experience Accelerator with Calgary Arts Development.