Director, Fine Arts Studios & Learning Spaces

The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy; Boston, Northern (MA, KY); Hybrid; USD 131,000 - 197,000; Full time

Job summary

SMFA at Tufts University in Boston seeks a Director of Fine Arts Studios & Academic Space Management to lead approximately 14 professional studio staff and oversee 21 studios, labs, classrooms, and informal spaces. This on-site leadership role partners with the Dean and academic colleagues to ensure spaces support teaching, learning, and artistic practice.

The role drives space planning, operations, safety, and innovative practices, translating strategic goals into effective operational outcomes

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of progressive management experience or a Master's degree and 6+ years of progressive management experience.
• Experience leading teams and managing complex operations in academic, arts, or similar environments.
• Experience driving organizational change, strategic initiatives, or service improvements across complex stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, operations, and continuous improvement for 21 studios, labs, classrooms, and informal spaces.
• Collaborate with the Dean, faculty, and admin colleagues to align spaces with educational priorities.
• Provide leadership on academic space planning, utilization, and facilities needs.
• Mentor and develop a team of approx. 14 studio staff.
• Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans supporting teaching and student success.
• Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and equipment investments.
• Develop policies and service models ensuring equitable access, safety, and innovation.
• Collaborate with TTS and university teams to enhance services and outcomes.
• Participate in TTS leadership and cross-functional initiatives.
• Build partnerships among faculty, students, admins, and leaders.
• Use data and feedback to drive service improvements and innovation.

Skills

Leadership experience

Team development

Strategic planning

Stakeholder collaboration

Communication

Project management

Education

Master's degree (preferred)

Bachelor's degree

Job description

SMFA at Tufts University in Boston seeks a Director of Fine Arts Studios & Academic Space Management to lead approximately 14 professional studio staff and oversee 21 studios, labs, classrooms, and informal spaces. This on-site leadership role partners with the Dean and academic colleagues to ensure spaces support teaching, learning, and artistic practice.

The role drives space planning, operations, safety, and innovative practices, translating strategic goals into effective operational outcomes