Our nonprofit is seeking a dynamic, community-focused Executive Director experienced in fundraising to grow our educational arts programming and lead us into an exciting new chapter of expansion.

At the Ashtabula Arts Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts to ignite growth and provide a space for individuals to express their unique creativity. As the premiere arts organization in Ashtabula County, we offer a wide range of programming in dance, drama, music, and visual arts. We are seeking a visionary Executive Director who will champion cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusivity, while guiding our organization through its next phase of growth.

About the Ashtabula Arts Center:

For over 70 years, the Ashtabula Arts Center has been a cornerstone of artistic and cultural enrichment in Ashtabula County. With an annual operating budget exceeding one million dollars, our facility features two dance floors, music education rooms, visual arts rooms, a gallery, a 200-seat indoor theater, and a 200-seat outdoor theater. Located on a semi-wooded site within the city of Ashtabula, the Center welcomes up to 20,000 individuals annually through its performances, classes, and exhibits, while also reaching thousands more throughout the community with outreach programs.

We are currently undergoing a significant expansion that includes new rehearsal spaces with mezzanine storage, additional storage areas, a fully accessible restroom addition, an expanded workshop space, and new siding to enhance our facility. This is an exciting time for the Arts Center as we continue to grow our impact and reach.

Here’s what you can expect in this impactful leadership role:

The Executive Director is the innovative leader of the Ashtabula Arts Center, responsible for overseeing administration, developing educational and cultural programs, implementing fundraising strategies, and executing the strategic plans of the organization.

In this highly interpersonal role, you’ll be the ‘face’ of the Arts Center. Embrace it, love it, and use it to grow our organization. A large focus of this role will be on fundraising, so we need someone who can both find and ask for money. We are excited to hear your creative ideas and approaches to building new revenue streams.

In addition, you’ll lead our dedicated and capable team. This requires excellent project management and communication skills to prioritize the workload, collaborate with team members, and provide opportunities for professional growth and development.

This role is for you if:

You’re passionate about the transformative power of the arts and share our commitment to bringing arts education and cultural programming to the community.
You enjoy providing vision and motivation for employees, contractors, and volunteers, while cultivating a positive work environment.
You possess strong communication skills, including expertise in board and donor relations, team building, marketing, and community engagement.

Executive Director Responsibilities:

Fundraising/Grant Oversight: In collaboration with the Board of Directors, lead fundraising planning, strategy, and execution, including foundation, government, and individual giving. Oversee donor cultivation, solicitations, and grant opportunities.
Facility Operations: Provide oversight of the Arts Center’s facilities, including building operations, maintenance, and personnel. Ensure the successful implementation of the ongoing expansion and remodel projects.
Strategic Planning: Work with the Board of Directors to develop and execute the Arts Center’s strategic plan, setting annual goals and action plans to ensure progress and success.
Advocacy: Serve as the chief spokesperson for the Ashtabula Arts Center. Enhance the organization’s image by being active in the community and establishing relationships with key stakeholders.
Program Development and Management: Develop and oversee a robust schedule of programs and classes that align with the Center’s mission and vision.
Fiscal Management: Manage the Center’s budget and fiscal operations. Present an annual budget for Board approval and ensure responsible financial stewardship.
Marketing and Communications: Oversee marketing and communications to increase the visibility and accessibility of the Arts Center's programs. Ensure consistent branding and messaging.
Community Outreach: Lead community engagement efforts with a focus on diversity, equity, access, and inclusion (DEAI). Strengthen relationships with underserved populations through scholarships and outreach programs.
Staff Leadership: Provide leadership and professional development for all staff. Ensure a healthy and positive work culture in compliance with workplace policies.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree preferred
3+ years of nonprofit and/or arts management experience
Proven success in fundraising and generating new revenue streams
Strong financial management skills and experience improving organizational results
Facility management experience is a plus
Creative problem-solving and project management skills

Working Conditions & Salary:

The Ashtabula Arts Center is located in Ashtabula, Ohio, a region known for its scenic beauty, covered bridges, and thriving wineries. As the Executive Director, you will be expected to attend evening and weekend events, meetings, and performances as part of the role. Flexibility with work hours and opportunities for part-time remote work may be available.

The Executive Director position is a full-time, salaried, exempt role. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The Ashtabula Arts Center offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits and other employee perks.

Ashtabula Arts Center

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