Artistic Director

Milagro; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 100,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent theater organization in Portland, Oregon is seeking an Artistic Director to lead the artistic vision and programming. This role requires a proven artistic leader who is committed to Latino storytelling and has significant experience in directing. The candidate should have strong organizational skills, proficiency in Spanish, and the ability to build partnerships with diverse communities. This position collaborates closely with staff and engages with the public, ensuring the mission of the organization is communicated effectively.

Qualifications

• Deep commitment to Milagro's mission and Latino centered storytelling.
• Proven track record as an artistic leader with established relationships in theater.
• Professional directing experience required.
• Experience in devising and collaborating on new original works.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong relationships in theater and Latino storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a multi-year artistic vision reflecting Milagro's mission.
• Curate and oversee annual programming including mainstage productions.
• Serve by directing at least one production per season.
• Collaborate with production staff to ensure quality productions.
• Participate in institutional planning to evolve the theater's resources.

Skills

Spanish language proficiency

Excellent communication

Strong organizational skills

Collaborative leadership

Leadership & mentorship

Fundraising collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in the arts or equivalent experience

Job description

The Artistic Director is responsible for conceiving, developing, and implementing the artistic vision and focus of Milagro. The Artistic Director (AD) reports to the Executive Director, although also collaborates with other staff to realize the complete work of El Centro Milagro. The AD is responsible for implementing the artistic vision of the organization through its theatrical programming and in concert with its Strategic Plan. The AD serves as the public spokesperson for the organization to the press, media, subscribers, donors, patrons and the public. The AD actively forges and maintains artistic relationships with theater companies and individual artists across The Pacific Northwest, the nation, and abroad. A successful candidate takes pride in the work of the theater: telling the story of Milagro’s mission in compelling ways to all communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic Leadership & Season Planning

Visionary Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a multi-year artistic vision that reflects Milagro’s mission while advancing contemporary Latino storytelling.

Comprehensive Programming: Curate and oversee annual programming, including Miracle MainStage productions, new work development, original devised Day of the Dead productions, and world premieres.

Directing & Creative Presence: Serve by directing at least one production per season and actively participating in rehearsals, previews, and opening nights. Providing feedback to the director and designers throughout the process, as needed.

National Collaboration: Represent Milagro as an active member of the National New Play Network, pursuing Rolling World Premierates and other collaborative development opportunities. Building and maintaining long-term relationships with a wide range of practicing artists and arts organizations; establishing and maintaining relationships with community-based organizations whose work aligns with the mission and values of Milagro; and identifying and inviting theater artists of local, national and international prominence to create, develop and perform new work at Milagro.

Production & Personnel Management

• Talent Curation & Mentorship: Recruit and supervise a diverse pool of guest directors, actors, and playwrights, fostering an environment where both emerging and established Latino artists can thrive.

• Production Oversight: Collaborate with production and technical staff to ensure high-quality, safe, and well-supported productions.

• Standardized Excellence: Oversee and maintain written procedures and standards for technical and production staff.

Administrative, Financial & Governance Responsibilities

• Fiscal Accountability: Collaborate with the Executive Director and Business Manager to develop and manage annual artistic and program budgets.

• Governance & Strategy: Report to the Board of Directors, providing reports on artistic milestones, new work development, and programming outcomes.

• Strategic Growth: Participate in high-level institutional planning to ensure the theater’s facilities and resources evolve to meet its artistic vision.

Community Engagement, Advocacy & Development

• Mission Spokesperson: Serve as a spokesperson for Milagro’s artistic mission through media engagement, public speaking, and community appearances.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, arts organizations, and community-based partners aligned with Milagro’s values by participating in meetings and joint activities where appropriate.

• Development Partnership: Partner with development staff to support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and fundraising events.

Skills & Qualifications

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

A deep commitment to Milagro’s mission, vision, and Latino centered storytelling

A proven track record as an artistic leader with established relationships in the theatre field

Bachelor’s degree (in the arts) or equivalent professional experience

Professional directing experience

Experience devising and collaborating on new original works

Spanish language proficiency

Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills

Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities

Initiative, adaptability, and collaborative leadership

Comfort working in fundraising environments and supporting donor engagement