Executive Director

Executive Director: Mobile Arts Council

Mission & Vision:

The Mobile Arts Council's (MAC’s) mission is to enrich the quality of life in the Mobile area through increasing accessibility to the arts and promoting a vibrant cultural community. We are searching for an Executive Director to lead the charge in shaping the cultural landscape of our city. This individual will lead our team, engage our community, and champion the transformative impact of creativity.

MAC was established in 1955 by the Junior League of Mobile and received 501(c)(3) status as a not-for-profit organization in 1962. Since its inception, Mobile Arts Council’s work has evolved to fit the needs of the community and its members. In its early days MAC was primarily a funding source for the cultural community. As the organization grew and its grantors became more established and self-sufficient this need was no longer as pressing for artists and arts organizations. Through strategic planning and organizational assessment MAC began to shift its focus from being a grantor to being an advocate and supporter of the arts.

Today, the organization remains a strong informational center for local culture, helping to facilitate numerous events and opportunities for artists from all backgrounds and mediums to show and perform their work and while gaining exposure along the Gulf Coast. MAC coordinates a variety of initiatives and programs that advocate for the arts and culture in Mobile, provides arts education and inspires collaboration amongst the community to create a thriving arts experience for locals and visitors alike.

The Executive Director will serve as a visionary, a champion, and a driving force behind the cultural renaissance of our city. From overseeing MAC’s community gallery program to spearheading innovative educational initiatives, from forging strategic partnerships to advocating for the arts on a local and national stage, this role is as multifaceted as the art forms we celebrate. To serve in this role, the Executive Director will lead a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, united in their passion for the arts and their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Executive Director Responsibilities

The Executive Director will work with the staff and board to oversee and ensure the following tasks are completed each year:

- Strategic Planning: Developing and implementing long-term strategic plans to advance the Arts Council's mission and vision in alignment with the community's needs and aspirations.

- Fundraising and Development: Securing funding through grants, donations, sponsorships, and other fundraising initiatives alongside the Development Director to sustain and grow the Arts Council's programs and operations.

- Financial Management: Overseeing the budget, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility to maintain the organization's financial health and sustainability.

- Program Development and Management: Creating and managing diverse programs and initiatives that promote artistic expression, cultural diversity, and community engagement. This could include exhibitions, performances, workshops, public art projects, and educational programs.

- Community Outreach and Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with community stakeholders, including artists, cultural organizations, government agencies, businesses, and residents, to foster collaboration and support for the arts.

- Advocacy and Public Relations: Serving as a spokesperson and advocate for the arts, promoting awareness of their importance and advocating for policies and resources that support their growth and accessibility.

- Staff and Volunteer Management: Hiring, supervising, and providing professional development opportunities for staff members and volunteers to ensure a productive and motivated team.

- Strategic Partnerships: Cultivating strategic partnerships with other arts organizations, educational institutions, civic groups, and businesses to leverage resources, expand reach, and maximize impact.

- Evaluation and Assessment: Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of programs and initiatives, collecting feedback from stakeholders, and using data to inform decision-making and improve outcomes.

- Compliance and Governance: Ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards, as well as providing support to the Board of Directors in governance matters.

- Cultural Equity and Inclusion: Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the Arts Council's work, including programming, hiring practices, and community engagement efforts.

- Crisis Management: Being prepared to handle unexpected challenges or crises that may arise, such as funding cuts, emergencies, or controversies, with resilience and effective communication.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Relevant computer skills (Microsoft Office & Adobe programs)
• Prior nonprofit experience
• At least 2 years in a leadership and/or management role
• Arts interest, knowledge and/or background
• Friendly and community oriented
• Strong communication skills including writing and public speaking
• Willingness to attend events on behalf of the organization
• Event planning experience
• Ability to direct fundraising activities
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and be part of a team
• Commitment to the goals and vision of Mobile Arts Council

Reporting

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

Working Conditions

• Based in Mobile, Alabama
• Full-time, 40 hours a week, occasional evening or weekend work for special events
• Remote work on Mondays
• Can adapt to working from home as needed, but in person preferred

Application Process:

• Application for position submitted through ZipRecruiter, or emailed to apply@mobilearts.org with the subject “First Name, Last Name, MAC Executive Director Application”
• Cover Letter
• Current Resume

Compensation

Salary starts at $55,000

Benefits:

• Paid vacation (including extended holiday breaks)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

• Mobile, AL 36602 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Mobile, AL 36602: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Mobile, AL 36602