Executive Director: Strategic Leader for Community Folklore

Empregara; City of Schenectady (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

New York Folklore seeks an Executive Director to lead day-to-day operations and advance its mission through strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and external engagement.

The role requires strong collaborative leadership, experience with grant writing and fundraising, and the ability to inspire staff, volunteers, donors, and partners. Residence in the Capital region is expected; some evenings/weekends and statewide travel are anticipated.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in folklore with a focus on public folklore preferred.
• Minimum of five years of managerial experience in a cultural organization required.
• Knowledge of New York State geography and its diverse regions is a plus; leadership with compassion is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop a long-range strategy rooted in public folk arts, in collaboration with the Board and staff.
• Maintain community partnerships with artists, cultural organizations, and stakeholders; stay informed on field developments.
• Oversee budget, finance, and fundraising including grants from NYS, local govs, foundations, and donors; lead earned revenue efforts.
• Maintain regular communication with the Board and publicize activities through traditional and social channels; coordinate Voices: the Journal.
• Advocate for the organization with NYSCA, NYFA, NEA, and other arts entities; lead local and national advocacy efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising

Grant writing

Strategic planning

External engagement

Education

Master’s degree in folklore (public folklore focus)

Master’s degree in related field (ethnomusicology, cultural heritage, museum studies, anthropology)

Job description

New York Folklore seeks an Executive Director to lead day-to-day operations and advance its mission through strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and external engagement.

The role requires strong collaborative leadership, experience with grant writing and fundraising, and the ability to inspire staff, volunteers, donors, and partners. Residence in the Capital region is expected; some evenings/weekends and statewide travel are anticipated.