Fresno Arts Council — Executive Director
Location: Fresno, California | Full time | Salary $75,000 – $90,000
https://www.fresnoartscouncil.org/careers
THE OPPORTUNITY:
The Fresno Arts Council seeks a strategic, collaborative, and community-centered Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter. We are looking for transformative leadership and a bold vision for the future.
ABOUT THE FRESNO ARTS COUNCIL:
The Fresno Arts Council (FAC) is a private nonprofit organization established in 1979 to support and promote the arts throughout Fresno County. As the designated local arts agency and state local partner to the California Arts Council, FAC provides financial support, programs, and services to artists, arts organizations, and diverse communities across the region.
Signature programs include ArtHop, Arts Alive in Agriculture, Arts in Education, Poetry Out Loud, and the City of Fresno Poet Laureate initiative. Support for artists, including technical assistance, advocacy, and mentorship, is at the heart of what we do.
FAC’s mission is to enrich our community’s way of life through the arts by fostering a vibrant arts ecosystem that recognizes and honors the contributions of artists and cultural organizations throughout Fresno County.
THE POSITION:
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the organization and works to advance FAC’s mission of supporting artists, strengthening arts organizations, and expanding access to arts and culture throughout Fresno County. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the organization. This includes oversight of organizational operations, financial stewardship, program development, fundraising, and community partnerships.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Organizational Leadership
- Provide strategic leadership and vision in alignment with the mission and priorities established by the Board of Directors.
- Work closely with the Board to develop and implement organizational goals, policies, and long-term strategic plans.
- Ensure strong internal systems, clear communication practices, and effective organizational management.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and staff.
Financial Management and Compliance
- Oversee the financial health of the organization, including budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal oversight.
- Ensure compliance with all grant requirements, contracts, and agreements with government agencies, foundations, and partners.
- Maintain strong internal financial controls and transparency in financial practices.
- Work closely with accounting professionals and auditors to ensure accurate financial reporting.
Fundraising and Resource Development
- Lead fundraising efforts in partnership with the Board of Directors.
- Develop and maintain relationships with funders, foundations, donors, and public agencies.
- Identify and pursue grant opportunities and oversee grant compliance and reporting.
- Cultivate new funding sources to support the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Program Leadership and Community Engagement
- Oversee FAC programs and initiatives that support artists and arts organizations across Fresno County.
- Ensure the continued strength and accessibility of programs such as ArtHop, arts education initiatives, exhibitions, and community partnerships.
- Represent the organization publicly and serve as an advocate for the arts in Fresno and the surrounding region.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, cultural organizations, community leaders, and public partners.
Staff Leadership and Organizational Culture
- Lead and support a small team of staff and contractors.
- Foster a collaborative, respectful, and mission-driven workplace culture.
- Oversee staff hiring, supervision, professional development, and performance evaluation.
- Ensure compliance with all HR policies and employment regulations.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit management, arts administration, public administration, or a related field.
- Strong financial management experience, including budgeting, financial oversight, and grant compliance.
- Experience working with nonprofit boards and governance structures.
- Proven ability to build partnerships and relationships across diverse communities.
- Excellent communication and organizational leadership skills.
- Experience in fundraising, donor cultivation, and grant writing.
- Commitment to the arts and cultural landscape of Fresno County.
- Bachelor’s degree in arts-related field or equivalent experience.
The Fresno Arts Council will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are excited about this role and feel that you can contribute to FAC, but your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed above, we encourage you to apply.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
This is a full-time, exempt leadership position based in Fresno, California. The Executive Director is expected to work primarily in person at the Fresno Arts Council office and attend community events, meetings, and programs throughout the region, including occasional evenings and weekends.
COMPENSATION:
Salary range: $75,000 – $90,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits include health benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
TO APPLY:
Please submit the following materials:
- Letter of interest
- Resume
- Three professional references
Applications should be submitted to:
Board of Directors
Fresno Arts Council
careers@fresnoartscouncil.org
NOTE: The lists above should not be viewed as definitive, prescriptive, or exclusionary. If you feel you are the right person for this job, please apply!
