President, Film at Lincoln Center

ROLE: President, Film at Lincoln Center

Learn more: https://www.filmlinc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Film-At-Lincoln-Center-President-Recruitment-Profile-Final.pdf

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, facilitate and execute the creation of strategic, operational and development plans for the organization.

- Leverage and develop the brand.

- Work with programmers to expand programming to new audiences.

- Oversee facilities renovation and development.

- Initiate capital campaigns, etc. as needed.

- Identify emerging opportunities and challenges.

• Serve as the primary relationship builder, with a natural aptitude for follow-up and fostering strong connections.

- Build relationships with industry professionals, potential donors and peer film organizations.

- Serve as a connector, convener and ambassador for FLC in the global film community.

- Participate in thought leadership opportunities to increase awareness of FLC and address issues impacting the sector.

• Manage all operations at Film at Lincoln Center (FLC), in partnership with the Deputy Director, including programs, film festivals, exhibitions/theaters, publications, websites, educational and artist programs, and community engagement.

- Balance operational excellence with artistic vision.

- Organize and oversee the management of staff and facilities.

- Ensure FLC staff has the resources to fufill their responsibilities. 

• Stay abreast of trends in the film industry, media, philanthropy and technology.

- Lead FLC in clarifying, defining and effectively realizing its role in a rapidly evolving industry and global landscape.

- Create and capitalize on opportunities to attract, engage and develop relationships with new audiences to increase exposure and encourage enjoyment of the art of cinema.

• Act as public spokesperson for the organization.

- Represent FLC domestically, internationally and with other Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts entities.

- Engage in public speaking, thought leadership events, press and media where appropriate.

- Promote public awareness of FLC’s mission, programs and initiatives. 

• Manage and play a vital role in all fundraising efforts.

- Supervise fundraising activities and initiatives

- Support the Board and staff in cultivating, stewarding and soliciting donors, sponsors and partners.

• Oversee development of annual budget in collaboration with the Chief Financial Officer.

- Facilitate and present budgetary recommendations to Board.

- Make and operationalize financial decisions, consistent with the approved budget.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• 10 years of leadership and management experience, ideally in film programming, the film industry, festival management or other entertainment-related environments.

• 5 years of staff management experience and demonstrated success creating an environment of teamwork, empowerment, collaboration and staff growth.

• Prior financial oversight experience, including budget preparation and management, prioritizing spend in line with strategic objectives and a track record of delivering results.

• Demonstrated experience as a relationship builder and serving and working with a Board and/or governing council with a range of stakeholders and constituencies.

• Experience as a proactive, skilled communicator both internally and externally.

• Proven track record of organizational or team leadership, strategic planning and managing multiple priorities to deliver results against organizational objectives.

• Undergraduate degree is required. Master’s degree or Juris Doctor (J.D.) are preferred.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS DESIRED

• Passion for global cinema, particularly in supporting visionary and self-taught artists.

• Ability to attract and retain a diverse, accomplished, energetic staff by working collaboratively, inspiring and empowering colleagues and building trust within the organization.

• Visionary thinker with an entrepreneurial spirit and mindset to adapt to and capitalize on changes in the industry.

• Unflappable executive presence, high emotional intelligence and consummate diplomacy in communication to serve and engage the Board, other entertainment organizations, the media, FLC members and leaders from private industry.

• A thoughtful approach to navigating change and problem-solving with a sense of humor.

• Exemplary leadership and management ability, with interpersonal skills to engage at all levels.

• Ability to communicate a compelling vision for the organization and inspire and engage new constituencies.

• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, dignity and psychological safety.

• Ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and the unique challenges of nonprofit leadership while maintaining a strong focus on the organization's mission and impact.