Executive Director

Daarts; Mission (KS); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit arts organization in Kansas is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead strategic planning and program development. This role requires a Bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years of nonprofit management experience, ideally within arts organizations. The ideal candidate will have strong skills in fundraising and community relations, and will be responsible for building relationships, overseeing programs, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. This position offers a starting salary of $50,000 based on experience, with a full-time commitment.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of nonprofit management experience, ideally within arts organizations.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including grants and donor engagement.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and evaluation of the organization’s plans.
• Oversee the implementation of programs and services that advance the mission.
• Design and lead fundraising strategies including grants and sponsorships.
• Ensure compliance with legal requirements and ethical standards.
• Build relationships with community stakeholders and civic leaders.

Skills

Fundraising strategies

Supervisory skills

Community relations

Strategic planning

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

STATUS: Full Time, Exempt

SUPERVISORY: Yes

REPORTS TO: Board of Directors

SALARY: Based on experience (starting at $50,000)

Job Purpose

The Executive Director (ED) leads the Doña Ana Arts Council in fulfilling its mission to enrich the community through the arts. In partnership with the Board of Directors, the ED provides strategic leadership, oversees programs and finances, manages staff, cultivates community partnerships, and advances a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable arts environment.

Required Education, Training, and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• 3–5 years of nonprofit management experience, ideally within arts or cultural organizations.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including grants, donor engagement, and other revenue generation.
• Experience supervising staff, managing budgets, and leading complex programs or events.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and strategic planning skills.
• Familiarity with nonprofit governance and board partnerships.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment, including some travel.

Essential Duties & Job Functions

Strategic Planning

Leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s strategic and annual plans. Aligns programs and initiatives with mission, vision, and community needs while working closely with the Board to set priorities and guide long‑term direction.

Program Development & Management

Oversees the creation, implementation, and assessment of programs and services that advance the Arts Council’s mission. Ensures programs are well‑designed, community‑centered, accessible, and effectively managed from planning through evaluation.

Fund Development, Grant Oversight & Fiscal Management

Designs and leads a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including grants, sponsorships, individual giving, donor stewardship, and events. Prepares and manages the annual budget, monitors financial performance, ensures compliance with accounting standards, and works with external auditors and accounting partners.

Recruits, trains, supervises, and evaluates staff. Ensures up‑to‑date job descriptions, equitable HR practices, and regular performance evaluations. Fosters a culture of collaboration, professional growth, and mission alignment. Oversees volunteer recruitment and coordination.

Community Relations

Serves as a visible ambassador for the Arts Council, building and maintaining meaningful relationships with artists, partner organizations, volunteers, donors, civic leaders, and the broader public. Attends events, conducts public speaking, and cultivates partnerships that expand participation and support for the arts.

Advocacy

Advocates for the arts as essential to community well‑being. Engages with local, state, and federal officials; promotes arts policies; and positions the Arts Council as a trusted resource and leader within the regional creative sector.

Board Relations & Development

Keeps the Board informed about organizational operations, opportunities, and challenges. Prepares meeting materials, develops agendas in partnership with the Board President, supports governance best practices, and assists in identifying and recruiting qualified Board members.

Ethics & Professional Conduct

Conducts all organizational activities with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Ensures compliance with legal requirements, ethical standards, and nonprofit best practices while fostering a culture grounded in equity and responsible stewardship.

General Administrative Responsibilities

Communicates clearly and professionally in writing, public speaking, and internal communication. Consistently meets deadlines, including occasional evening and weekend duties.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of nonprofit arts operations and community impact.
• Expertise in fundraising strategies including grants, donor development, sponsorships, and events.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills, including training and performance management.
• Experience with contract negotiation and administration.
• Ability to develop long‑term financial goals and growth strategies.
• Highly organized and skilled at managing multiple priorities with clarity and urgency.
• Strong analytical skills, including interpreting data, identifying trends, and recommending improvements.

Physical Demands & Working Environment

Physical: Primarily office‑based with occasional outdoor work; must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs.

Environment: Office, gallery, and off‑site indoor/outdoor facilities.

Equity, Inclusion & Access Commitment

The Doña Ana Arts Council is committed to a vibrant, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable arts community. We welcome applicants from historically marginalized groups and do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, age, religion, or immigration status.

Mission

The Dona Ana Arts Council, through the arts, enhances the quality of life and develops the cultural, educational, and economic growth of our community.

To Apply

To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume to [e-mail] by December.