Arts & Culture Programs Director — Strategic Operations Leader

City of Austin; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Austin seeks a senior leader to direct the ACME department’s programs in arts, culture, music, and entertainment, coordinating across divisions and ensuring alignment with city priorities. You will manage budgets, staff, and policy development while representing the department to City Council and community partners.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong communication, and the ability to translate complex issues for the public, with a track record in public administration and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economic Development, Urban Planning, or related field, plus five years of management of projects and programs.
• Two years of managerial experience required.
• Master's degree may substitute for up to two years of non-management experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversees planning, execution, and evaluation of programs and services promoting arts, culture, music, and entertainment citywide.
• Assists the Director with short- and long-term goals and initiatives that align with City priorities.
• Manages divisions, staff, and programs to ensure efficient workflows and high-quality service delivery.
• Assists in preparing and managing operating and capital budgets; monitors expenditures and identifies funding opportunities.
• Develops departmental policies and procedures; ensures compliance with laws and City regulations.
• Serves as a department spokesperson at City Council meetings and with community organizations.
• Promotes service excellence, accountability, and collaboration among staff and partners.
• Identifies staffing needs, mentors leaders, and implements training to strengthen capacity.
• Implements systems to measure program effectiveness and uses data to inform policy and planning.
• Prepares business plans, policy documents, and performance reports for executives and stakeholders.

Skills

Budget planning

Public administration

Purchasing regulations

Policy development

Communication skills

Data analysis

Leadership

Strategic planning

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Public Administration/Economic Development/Urban Planning

Master's degree substitution for non-management experience

Tools

Computers and software

Job description

City of Austin seeks a senior leader to direct the ACME department’s programs in arts, culture, music, and entertainment, coordinating across divisions and ensuring alignment with city priorities. You will manage budgets, staff, and policy development while representing the department to City Council and community partners.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong communication, and the ability to translate complex issues for the public, with a track record in public administration and