Executive Director – The BEAR (Bath County Arts Association)

Position Overview

The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in leading and managing The BEAR’s first physical facility dedicated to promoting the arts in Bath County. This individual will oversee daily operations, revenue growth, programming, staff & volunteer management, and marketing. While programming of the space will be the primary focus, the Executive Director will also focus on opportunities to sustain and expand The BEAR’s mission.

This role requires visionary leadership, strong financial acumen, keen understanding of fundraising strategies, event planning experience, and a passion for community engagement through the arts. The right candidate will foster significant relationships with the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategic Vision: Support the development and help execute a long-term strategy to ensure financial sustainability and community impact; act as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for The BEAR; work closely with the BCAA Board to align programming and strategic goals; and, inspire and manage staff and volunteers to create a dynamic, welcoming arts space.
• Operations & Financial Oversight: Oversee day-to-day operations (Thursday-Monday), including event programming, facility management, and staff management; manage the annual budget alongside BCAA treasurer and accountant ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency; oversee event rentals, gallery sales, and programs to maximize revenue; ensure organizational compliance with laws, regulations, and nonprofit governance in collaboration with the Treasurer and Finance Committee; and, manage the physical space, ensuring its proper use and alignment with The BEAR’s mission.
• Fundraising & Development Management: Identify and pursue sponsorships, and donor opportunities to sustain programming alongside the BCAA; support the grant writer with proposals, and donor outreach materials; and, work with the Programs Chair and Fundraising Committee to secure funding for exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
• Marketing & Community Engagement: Develop and implement a marketing and branding strategy to attract audiences and increase awareness; oversee social media, website, PR, and community outreach efforts; foster partnerships with local businesses, tourism organizations, and cultural institutions; represent The BEAR at public events, speaking engagements, and networking opportunities; and, utilize Canva or similar design tools to create promotional materials for events and membership campaigns.
• Programming & Event Management: Oversee and curate art exhibitions, workshops, performances, and community events; ensure a diverse and engaging programming calendar that meets community needs; develop new initiatives to expand The BEAR’s cultural and economic impact; work with the Programs Chair to design and execute arts education programs for children and adults; and, support additional programs and activities of the BCAA, such as the Bath County Art Show

Qualifications

• 3 years of leadership experience in arts administration, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and revenue development.
• Experience in event management, marketing, and community engagement.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills to inspire teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to work with and report to a Board of Directors.
• Familiarity with fundraising strategies, donor relations, and membership development.
• Proficiency in Excel, Canva, and donor management software 
• Entrepreneurial mindset with an innovative approach to business planning.
• Passion for the arts, culture, and community building.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits: Rent-free, newly completed studio apartment above space offered, professional development stipend (negotiable) 
• Perks: Opportunity to shape a new and innovative arts space in Bath County!

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A resume highlighting relevant experience.
• A cover letter explaining their passion for arts leadership and fundraising.
• Any other supporting materials
• Send applications to: President@bathcountyarts.org

Additional Details

• Location: Hot Springs, VA
• Employment Type: Part-time (Flexible Schedule, approximately 30 hours/week, primarily Thursdays-Mondays onsite but flexible depending on programs etc. )
• Reports to: Bear Board Committee member and Board Executive Committee Liaisons
• About The BEAR: The BEAR is soon to be a newly established community arts hub in Hot Springs, VA, providing a dynamic space for events, exhibitions, workshops, and cultural engagement. As an extension of the Bath County Arts Association (BCAA), The BEAR serves as a gathering place for artists, residents, and visitors to experience and support the arts.