Executive Director

Executive Director, Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center

The Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center (SMPAC), a nonprofit arts venue in the center of historic Simsbury, Connecticut, seeks an enthusiastic and inspiring Executive Director to lead SMPAC in providing Greater Hartford and beyond with high-quality events and programming. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides the leadership and strategic direction to enable SMPAC to achieve its goals for artistic excellence, community programming and engagement, and financial sustainability.

About Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center

Situated in the scenic Farmington Valley, midway between Hartford and Litchfield, SMPAC is the state’s second-largest outdoor venue, with a capacity of 8,000. Summer home to the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, the venue features world-class performances in classical music, pop, country, and jazz, as well as family programming, festivals, athletic events, races, and markets. The organization is in the process of a $2.5 million facilities upgrade, supported by a private-public partnership with the State of Connecticut, the Town of Simsbury, and private funding raised by the Board of Directors.

Position Description:

The Executive Director will serve as the organization's primary representative and is responsible for providing strategic leadership, building a team of talented staff, creating and implementing a development strategy, and overseeing the management, finances, programming, and venue operations. This leadership role requires a dynamic and driven individual with a passion for the performing arts and the ability to motivate and manage the Board, staff, and volunteers.

The incoming leader will have the exciting opportunity to design a staffing structure that supports their management vision and priorities. Outside of the Director of Operations, currently serving as Interim Director, open staff positions have remained unfilled to allow the incoming leader to create a strategic and sustainable staffing plan. SMPAC has a committed and active Board eager to support the Executive Director in growing a robust donor base, managing operations, expanding relationships with community partners, and delivering high-quality artistic programming and community events.

Responsibilities and Expectations:

Leadership and Management:

· Oversee all business and venue operations, ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

· Ensure consistent excellence in finance, administration, fundraising, communications, and systems.

· Construct a staffing plan to support the strategic goals and programmatic objectives of the organization.

· Foster a collaborative working relationship with and among the staff and nurture a positive organizational culture that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.

· Create and implement policies and procedures to guide operations, employee management, and other standards necessary for risk management.

· Recruit, engage, and energize volunteers to support events throughout the performance season.

· Negotiate and manage contracts with talent, sponsors, and rental vendors to secure favorable terms and ensure successful event execution.

· Maintain and support a committed and active Board of Directors. Attend Board and committee meetings. Collaborate with the Board to set organizational strategies, key performance indicators for events, and program priorities.

Revenue Generation:

· Maximize ticket sales, rentals, concessions, and additional revenue streams while aligning with the organization’s mission, community standards, and artistic vision.

· Create and execute fundraising strategies to secure financial support beyond earned revenue by fostering relationships with individuals, local businesses, corporations, foundations, and government entities.

· Proactively identify grant opportunities and oversee the grant writing and management process, ensuring compliance and timely submissions.

· Organize and lead fundraising events to generate revenue and enhance community engagement.

Community Engagement:

· Act as the primary representative of SMPAC, promoting its mission and programs to the public.

· Establish and maintain existing relationships with The Town of Simsbury, Hartford Symphony Orchestra, partners, sponsors, donors, performers, vendors, and other community stakeholders.

· Foster strategic partnerships with organizations, concert producers, and booking agencies to expand programs, draw high-quality performers, and further initiatives to diversify audiences and support greater inclusivity with SMPAC.

· Strengthen the brand and identity of SMPAC.

Requirements:

· Progressive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and/or arts and culture market.

· Excellent leadership and management abilities, capable of inspiring and motivating staff, board members, and volunteers.

· Experience building and leading competent and high-functioning teams.

· Demonstrated skill in building relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding agencies to secure financial support for organizational initiatives.

· Proven ability to present and communicate ideas and policies effectively in both verbal and written forms.

· Candidates must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary to support the needs of the organization.

Other key competencies desired, but not prerequisite:

· Skill in planning, coordinating, and executing successful events.

· Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis and reporting.

· Ability to create and execute effective marketing strategies and campaigns.

· Experience with the performing arts.

· Skill in designing, implementing, and evaluating effective programs.

· Ability to analyze, envision, and create long-term organizational strategies.

· Degree in arts administration, business management, or a related field.

The ideal candidate will possess the following leadership qualities:

· The ability to adjust strategies based on evolving circumstances and needs.

· Builds and maintains meaningful relationships, fostering shared purpose within the team and with stakeholders.

· Values teamwork and inclusivity.

· Translates vision into action. Coordinates teams and ensures timely, high-quality, and budget-conscious execution of plans and strategies.

· Demonstrates trustworthiness and earns respect through honesty, integrity, and transparent leadership.

Position Details:

This is a full-time exempt position and will follow a hybrid work structure, allowing for the flexibility and convenience of remote work. Structuring some in-office workdays alongside staff is encouraged to foster a positive and collaborative culture. The Executive Director is expected to attend all performances and events throughout the performance season.

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary: $80,000 - $100,000 with potential for 5% - 10% bonus based on individual and organizational performance.

Benefits: SMPAC offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, paid time off, retirement contribution plan, and a hybrid, flexible work structure.

How to Apply:

SMPAC has retained Fio Partners, LLC to assist with this search. To apply in confidence, please send a resume and brief cover letter to search@fiopartners.com.

Apply by January 10, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as candidates will be considered on a rolling basis.

Please email search@fiopartners.com with questions or for support submitting your application.

Candidates who advance should expect:

· Phone or video discussion with a Fio Partners Associate.

· Virtual interview with the Search Committee.

· Virtual interview with the Board President and select Committee Chairs.

· In-person presentation and interviews with the Director of Operations and selected stakeholders.

Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is committed to conducting an equitable, accessible assessment process. If you would like to request accommodation during the interview process, please email search@fiopartners.org. Accommodation requests will be handled confidentially.

Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively encourage individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply, as we believe that a variety of viewpoints enriches our work environment and strengthens our mission. We are committed to creating a culture of belonging and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Ability to Relocate:

• Simsbury, CT 06070: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Simsbury, CT 06070

Salary : $80,000 - $100,000