Executive Director Job Description
Organization Overview
Starkville Area Arts Council (SAAC) is a public charity that serves as the local arts agency in Oktibbeha County, MS, with a mission to build a strong, creative, connected community through art. SAAC operates 3 key program areas: Art Education & Outreach, The Creative Economy, and Fundraising. Each program runs various initiatives, including after-school programs, the Cotton District Arts Festival, and other outreach. Visit www.starkvillearts.net for more information.
Position Overview
SAAC is seeking an energetic Executive Director (“ED”) to lead the organization into its next phase of growth. The ED is the full-time professional staff employed by the Board of Directors (“Board”), reporting to the elected President and Executive Board. The ED is responsible for day-to-day operations, fundraising, and programs/events as established by the Board pursuant to governing bylaws, policies and procedures, and mission. The ED provides leadership and expertise, as well as long-range planning and development in the financial vitality of the Organization; serves as liaison with the Board and with the community; implements the mission of the Organization; engages and manages staff, vendors, and other professionals. Although a leadership position, the ED is part of a team that shares in day-to-day administration. Duties will evolve as needed, particularly as goals and needs change. A nonexclusive list of job functions in one of five areas is below. Other duties may be assigned by the Board.
Minimum Qualifications
Desired Qualifications/Experience
To Apply
Please send a letter of interest and resume with at least three professional references (including names, position, email, and telephone numbers) to SAAC Search Committee at [email protected]. Only the most qualified candidates will be invited to interview. Applications will be reviewed immediately upon submission. Position is open until filled, although an appointment is anticipated by May 15, 2025. Compensation and benefits commensurate with experience and based upon comparable organizations.
Starkville Area Arts Council (SAAC) is a public charity that serves as the local arts agency in Oktibbeha County, MS, with a mission to build a strong, creative, connected community through art. SAAC operates 3 key program areas: Art Education & Outreach, The Creative Economy, and Fundraising. Each program runs various initiatives, including after-school programs, the Cotton District Arts Festival, and other outreach. Visit www.starkvillearts.net for more information.
Position Overview
SAAC is seeking an energetic Executive Director (“ED”) to lead the organization into its next phase of growth. The ED is the full-time professional staff employed by the Board of Directors (“Board”), reporting to the elected President and Executive Board. The ED is responsible for day-to-day operations, fundraising, and programs/events as established by the Board pursuant to governing bylaws, policies and procedures, and mission. The ED provides leadership and expertise, as well as long-range planning and development in the financial vitality of the Organization; serves as liaison with the Board and with the community; implements the mission of the Organization; engages and manages staff, vendors, and other professionals. Although a leadership position, the ED is part of a team that shares in day-to-day administration. Duties will evolve as needed, particularly as goals and needs change. A nonexclusive list of job functions in one of five areas is below. Other duties may be assigned by the Board.
- Organization & Board Management (20-25%)
- Fundraising and Financial Management (30-35%)
- Program Management (30-35%)
- Communications & Advocacy (10-15%)
Minimum Qualifications
- Degree from an accredited 4-year college/university or equivalent work experience (at least 3 years) showing expertise in arts, business or nonprofit management, or communication.
- Financial management experience, including budget development and fiscal management with a track record of securing sponsorships and grants.
- Ability to supervise, motivate, and work collaboratively with others as part of a team, showing a healthy sense of humor.
- Knowledge of and a passion for the arts.
- Organized, with excellent written and oral communication skills, with leadership, supervisory, organizational, and entrepreneurial experience.
- Ability to work during standard office hours (M-F 10 AM to 4 PM), plus evenings and weekends as needed and ability to travel locally (regularly) and throughout the state and region (occasionally).
- Valid driver’s license and automobile in good repair. Ability to lift 50 pounds and work in an office environment.
Desired Qualifications/Experience
- Leadership experience managing a non-profit organization.
- Strong ability to manage online and social media platforms and content.
- Public speaking and effective general public engagement.
- Managing artists and volunteers.
- Expertise in an arts field.
To Apply
Please send a letter of interest and resume with at least three professional references (including names, position, email, and telephone numbers) to SAAC Search Committee at [email protected]. Only the most qualified candidates will be invited to interview. Applications will be reviewed immediately upon submission. Position is open until filled, although an appointment is anticipated by May 15, 2025. Compensation and benefits commensurate with experience and based upon comparable organizations.
