Executive Director

The Theatre of Western Springs (TWS) is a community theatre. TWS has served the western suburbs since 1929, and runs on passionate volunteers and a dedicated staff. TWS is searching for an EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR to perform the following key responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• With the Board of Governors (BOG), develop and implement the theatre’s strategic plan, ensuring it aligns with the organization’s mission, goals and advancement.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and operational excellence.
• Ensure compliance with policies, regulations and by-laws.
• Work effectively with volunteers.

Artistic Oversight:

• With the Artistic Director, maintain the artistic vision, ensuring a balance between artistic vision and financial viability.

Fundraising and Development:

• Support the work of securing individual giving and corporate sponsorship alongside the Development Director
• Support the development of fundraising activities and manage the involvement of volunteers and outside professionals.
• Assist in securing grant opportunities,

Financial Management:

• Serve as a member of the Budget and Finance Committee.
• Participate in the annual budgeting process.
• Approve all expenditures not requiring approval for others.

Staff Management:

• Manage and supervise staff
• Foster a positive work environment.

Marketing and Public Relations:

• With the BOG and Volunteers, promote all productions and events, and oversee marketing and public relations efforts.

Community Engagement:

• Actively engage with local organizations, attending community events, and cultivating strategic partnerships to enhance visibility and community support and maintain and grow the subscriber base.

Facility Management:

• Oversee upkeep of the physical space.
• Manage the schedule for space and performances.

Board Relations:

• Work closely with the BOG, providing regular reports and updates on theatre activities and progress.
• Attend monthly BOG meeting and other meetings as requested.

Children’s Theatre Oversight:

• With the Children’s Theatre Director and Advisory Committee, explore ways to work effectively and promote its offerings.

Qualifications:

7+ years of experience including:

• Senior leadership/management experience in leading and managing teams and operations, ideally within community theatre, performing arts or cultural organizations.
• Non-profit management, i.e. board governance, strategic planning, fundraising, grant writing, and community engagement.
• Financial acumen; experience with budgeting, analysis, and reporting.
  Success in securing major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and implementing fundraising campaigns.
• Marketing and development strategic expertise.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including staff, board members, volunteers, and donors.
• Ablility to develop and implement strategic plans and organizational goals.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Word and Excel
• Financial and payroll systems and CRM a plus