The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of the
organization and is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and sustainability of a
small arts nonprofit. In a highly collaborative, hands-on environment, the ED balances strategic
leadership with day-to-day operations, financial oversight, fundraising, and community
engagement. The Executive Director works closely with a small staff and an active Board of
Directors; the Executive Director ensures the organization’s mission, programs, and operations
are effectively carried out and remain responsive to artists, audiences, funders, and the broader
community.

Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate is adaptable, collaborative, and comfortable wearing many hats. They are
equally skilled at strategic thinking and practical execution, value artists and community
relationships, and understand the financial and operational realities of small nonprofit
organizations.

Core Responsibilities:

Organizational Leadership & Board Partnership

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and support the Board in fulfilling
  its governance responsibilities.
• Prepare materials and reports for the Board, including financial and program updates.
• Collaborate with the Board on strategic planning, goal setting, and organizational
  priorities.
• Support Board recruitment, onboarding, and engagement appropriate to a small
  organization.

Financial Management & Administration

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board
  Treasurer and staff.
• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including cash flow, expense tracking, and
  financial reporting.
• Ensure accurate bookkeeping, timely bill payment, payroll processing, and financial
  controls (often in coordination with an external bookkeeper or accountant).
• Prepare materials for annual audits and financial reviews, and ensure compliance with
  funder requirements.

Fundraising & Revenue Development

• Lead fundraising efforts, including grant writing and reporting, individual giving,
  sponsorships, and earned revenue.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with funders, donors, and community partners.
• Work with the Board to strengthen fundraising capacity and support Board member
  participation in development activities.
• Track and report on fundraising progress and outcomes.

Program Oversight

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs.
• Work closely with staff to ensure programs are high-quality, mission-aligned, and feasible
  within available resources.
• Maintain strong relationships with artists, funders, and community partners.
• Ensure programs meet the expectations of funders and participants and are documented
  appropriately.

Staff Supervision & Workplace Culture

• Hire, supervise, and evaluate a small team of staff and contractors, often working closely
  and collaboratively across roles.
• Establish clear responsibilities, workflows, and performance expectations.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture.
• Support professional development and prevent burnout through realistic workload
  management.

Community Relations & Visibility

• Serve as the primary public representative and spokesperson for the organization.
• Build visibility for the organization through community presence, partnerships, and
  communications.
• Represent the organization at meetings, events, and convenings related to the arts and
  nonprofit sector.

Operations, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including
  nonprofit and employment requirements.
• Maintain organizational policies, procedures, and records.
• Ensure compliance with grant agreements, contracts, and reporting deadlines.
• Oversee organizational risk management, including insurance, safety, and internal
  controls

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required. An
advanced degree in a relevant field is preferred. Candidates with demonstrated success
in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, financial management, and community engagement
are strongly encouraged to apply. Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible
leadership experience required.

● Demonstrated leadership experience in a nonprofit, arts organization, or comparable
small organization.
● Grant writing and grant management experience.
● Experience managing budgets, finances, and multiple revenue streams.
● Strong organizational and time-management skills in a fast-paced, hands-on
environment.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
● Experience working in or with arts and culture organizations.
● Experience supervising small teams and working closely with Boards.