President & CEO (Boston)

Celebrity Series of Boston; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Boston arts organization is seeking a visionary President & CEO to elevate its mission as a multidisciplinary performing arts leader. The role involves strategic planning, community engagement, and revenue generation while ensuring inclusivity and innovative programming. The ideal candidate will possess extensive senior management experience in the arts with a commitment to enhancing community impact.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of senior management experience in a reputable organization.
• Focus on artistic quality and excellence essential.

Responsibilities

• Advance the organization’s vision and mission with a focus on racial equity.
• Lead fundraising efforts and community engagement strategies.
• Oversee daily operations and fiscal management.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Strategic planning

Job description

The President & CEO will provide leadership, direction, and management, as well as identify and secure resources to build on decades of success and elevate the organization as a multidisciplinary performing arts leader. The individual will oversee artistic vision, growth, and development, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. They will work closely with the Board, staff, venue partners, and the arts community to fulfill the organization’s mission, refresh its strategic plan, and serve as the primary spokesperson locally, nationally, and internationally. External engagement with community, arts leaders, funders, and media will be essential to support programs and activities. The President & CEO will aim to position the organization as Boston’s preeminent performing arts presenter, attracting audiences and financial support throughout the region.

Role and Responsibilities

Strategic Vision and Program Vitality

• Advance the organization’s vision, mission, and values, including centering racial equity as a strategic imperative.
• Enhance the arts’ role in fostering creativity, innovation, and community advancement in the Boston area.
• Develop community engagement and strategic plans to ensure sustainability amid social, economic, or political changes.
• Increase the organization’s influence and visibility in Greater Boston.
• Oversee artistic programming with the Artistic Director to ensure a vibrant season and community engagement.
• Align programs with the organization’s mission, values, and goals, updating as needed.
• Build relationships with artists and managers to curate high-quality, diverse, and financially viable performances.

Revenue Generation and Audience Engagement

• Expand marketing and public relations efforts to strengthen brand awareness and audience reach.
• Lead fundraising efforts across various sectors in collaboration with the development team and Board.
• Assess programming and audience data to optimize engagement and market competitiveness.
• Foster relationships with cultural and government agencies to secure support and alliances.

Engaged Governance

• Collaborate closely with the Board Chair and committees to clarify roles and responsibilities.
• Develop relationships with Board members to leverage their strengths and resources.
• Assist in recruiting and nurturing new Board members and advisors.
• Ensure racial equity is integrated into governance, staffing, and operations.

Community Participation and Public Visibility

• Implement plans to work with community organizations and Boston-based artists for accessible performances.
• Ensure community engagement aligns with the presentation of both local and touring artists.
• Build relationships within the Boston cultural sector to develop future audiences.

Team, Financial, and Technological Leadership

• Provide effective leadership to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Foster organizational adaptability and resilience.
• Manage staff recruitment, development, and evaluation.
• Oversee fiscal management, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Ensure technological tools are effectively used for communication, marketing, and operations.

Traits and Characteristics

The ideal candidate will be a visionary, dynamic leader with strong management, external relations, and communication skills. They will be community-oriented, innovative, resilient, and collaborative, with a passion for the arts and community impact. Key competencies include leadership, interpersonal skills, audience and donor focus, and strategic planning.

Qualifications

A minimum of 10 years of senior management experience in a relevant, reputable organization with a focus on artistic quality and excellence.