Yeiser Art Center (YAC) is a leading non-profit arts organization located in the heart of Paducah, Kentucky. Since its establishment in 1957, YAC has been dedicated to enriching the community through the promotion and celebration of visual arts. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, YAC fosters creativity, inspires innovation, and promotes cultural engagement.

YAC has a permanent exhibition space that hosts several shows annually and a permanent collection of over 300 works. YAC hosts Paducah’s beloved Lower Town Arts & Music Festival, a celebration of all things art, community, and music, annually.

YAC is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and oversee all aspects of the organization's operations. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, artists, donors, and community partners to advance the center's mission and ensure its continued growth and success. The Executive Director will be a highly organized, creative, motivated leader with a passion for visual arts and working knowledge of nonprofit operations.

Duties include:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans in alignment with the organization's mission and goals.
• Lead efforts to enhance YAC’s reputation and impact within the local and regional arts community.

Financial Management

• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and fundraising activities to ensure the financial health and sustainability of the organization.
• Identify and pursue diverse revenue streams, including grants, donations, sponsorships, and earned income opportunities.
• Report financials to board of directors quarterly.

Program Development

• Curate and coordinate a dynamic schedule of exhibitions, programs, and events that reflect YAC’s commitment to artistic excellence, diversity, and innovation.
• Manage curation of all artists and special exhibitions, including Call for Artists, artist selection, artist agreements, jury/judge selection, special exhibition themes, timelines, schedules, installation and deinstallation, and marketing of exhibitions.
• Remain knowledgeable and updated on current trends in the visual art and gallery industry.

Event Management

• Serve as the lead organizer for Lower Town Arts & Music Festival and other events orchestrated by YAC.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event plans, timelines, and budgets in collaboration with the festival committee.
• Coordinate logistics, including permitting, equipment rental, signage, transportation, and accommodations.
• Recruit, communicate with, and coordinate vendors, artists, and performers participating in the festival.
• Manage the application process, booth assignments, contracts, fees, and logistical support for vendors and artists.
• Identify and solicit sponsorship opportunities from businesses, organizations, and individuals to support the festival's financial needs. Develop sponsorship packages, cultivate relationships with sponsors, and ensure fulfillment of sponsorship benefits.
• Develop and execute marketing and promotional strategies to increase awareness, attendance, and participation in the festival.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, permits, and insurance requirements related to event planning and management. Develop and implement safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management strategies to ensure the well-being of attendees, participants, and staff.

Staff & Facilities Management

• Provide effective leadership and supervision to staff members and volunteers.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that values creativity, professionalism, diversity, and inclusivity.
• Ensure that the facility and exhibits are maintained to the highest of standards.
• Ensure that utilities and other expenses associated with the gallery are paid in a timely manner.
• Maintain compliance with external regulations and internal policies.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university preferred, with preference to a degree in arts management, visual arts, non-profit management.
• 3 years of experience in visual arts management, curation, or non-profit arts management
• Experience in a gallery or studio setting and working with artists.
• Experience with office administration.
• Experience with grants, fundraising, and managing budgets.
• Experience with integrating social media into event planning and execution.
• Knowledge of and ability to operate standard office hardware and software, including but not limited to Google Docs, Word, Excel, etc.
• Ability to make decisions and solve problems.
• Ability to organize time and anticipate, plan, and manage multiple priorities with deadlines.
• Creative skills to generate ideas and follow through with execution.
• Ability to self-start, lead and delegate to staff and volunteers.
• Ability to stay measured and professional while working under pressure.
• Committed to developing strong and productive working relationships.
• Financial skills sufficient to develop, understand, and/or interpret budgets, financial reports, and audits. Knowledge of general accounting concepts and practices.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Outstanding leadership and organizational skills.
• Must have a flexible schedule as some events take place outside of normal business hours.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $35,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person