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- Orchestra Lumos Seeks President and CEO
Orchestra Lumos invites nominations and applications for the position of President and CEO, available in the Fall of 2025. Russell Jones, who has served in the role since 2017, has announced that he will step down at the end of the year. A Search Committee has been formed to identify the next President and CEO and has engaged the Catherine French Group to assist them in recruiting a strong chief executive who will partner with Music Director Michael Stern to lead the continued growth and development of Orchestra Lumos.
The Orchestra
www.orchestralumos.orgOrchestra Lumos brings live symphonic music to nearly 15,000 residents annually across Fairfield County, Connecticut, the most populous county in the state. Formed in 1919 and established as a not-for-profit organization in 1967, the Stamford Symphony was rebranded as Orchestra Lumos in 2022. This change marked the launch of an ambitious plan for growth and a renewed sense of purpose to increase its reach and impact by bringing music to audiences and the many diverse communities of Fairfield County. Uniting the passion of the region’s most talented musicians to create exhilarating artistic experiences, Orchestra Lumos aims to inspire, connect, and strengthen the communities it serves throughout the County.
Orchestra Lumos performs at the 1500-seat Palace Theatre in Stamford and in the 2025-26 Season will also appear at the Quick Center on the campus of Fairfield University in Fairfield, CT. The Small Space Series presents musicians in intimate venues throughout the County. Family Fun offers movie, Broadway, and holiday programming for audiences of all ages. Orchestra Lumos partners with a number of Fairfield County community and education organizations to bring music and musical experiences to people in schools, libraries, community centers, hospitals, and rehab facilities. The 2025-26 Season is inspired by the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States; all artists and repertoires are connected to America and will celebrate America’s national treasures.
The Orchestra operates under a collective bargaining agreement with AFM Local 802, the New York Local that also represents Fairfield County. Talented professional musicians from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut come to perform with Orchestra Lumos and to work with Music Director Michael Stern, who has led the orchestra to critical acclaim for the past five years. Solo artists of the highest international stature appear with Orchestra Lumos on a regular basis.
Orchestra Lumos is governed by a Board of 19 community leaders and has a core team of five full-time staff who are supported by five independent consultants with specific concert-related responsibilities. The operating budget for the 2025-2026 season is $2.5 million, of which more than $2 million is supported by philanthropy.
The Opportunity
The next President and CEO will build on the significant work that has so effectively transformed Orchestra Lumos over the past five years. The President will take a leadership role with an Orchestra that is known for its innovative programming and is uniquely positioned to attract the finest musicians in the tri-state area. Working in partnership with a dynamic Music Director, the President will have the opportunity to expand the Orchestra’s reach into Fairfield County and to deepen connections between Orchestra Lumos and audiences from diverse communities throughout Fairfield County.
The President will join an organization that has strong reserves and a track record for attracting philanthropic support. The Board, Music Director, musicians, and staff are aligned in pursuing the Orchestra’s artistic, community engagement, and educational goals. The next President and CEO will provide the strategic leadership that will see continued growth while ensuring financial sustainability and the full participation of key external stakeholders.
The Position
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President and CEO provides leadership and vision to ensure that Orchestra Lumos fulfills its mission and achieves its goals for artistic, financial, and organizational success. The President is responsible and accountable for all aspects of the Orchestra’s operations, including: planning; budgeting and financial management; fundraising; audience development; marketing, communications, and public relations; artistic administration and concert production; orchestra relations and collective bargaining negotiations; electronic media; human resource management; education; community engagement; and public advocacy.
The President and CEO is the chief fundraiser for the Orchestra and takes a leadership role in the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individual and institutional donors to the annual fund, endowment, projects, and special fundraising campaigns. The President provides impetus and support to the fundraising efforts of the Board, and ensures that Orchestra Lumos meets and exceeds its goals for fundraising from all sources. The President assists the Board Chair and Governance Committee in identifying and recruiting prospective Board members throughout the County.
With the Director of Finance, the President oversees the financial management of Orchestra Lumos, including budgeting, financial planning, and cash flow management. The President ensures that the Orchestra achieves its annual and long-term budget goals. The President maintains transparency in financial reporting to internal and external audiences. The President ensures that the Board and its Committees have the timely and accurate information needed to inform their decision making.
The President and CEO is a partner with the Music Director in maintaining an environment that attracts the finest area musicians to Orchestra Lumos and allows them to do their best work. The President recruits, engages, and motivates a high-performing administrative staff who share a commitment to the highest standards of excellence in all aspects their work on behalf of Orchestra Lumos.
The President and CEO oversees the design and implementation of robust audience development, marketing, and communications strategies that build audiences for programs and activities of Orchestra Lumos throughout Fairfield County. The President is the chief spokesperson with local, regional, and national media. The President is the visible representative, spokesperson, and advocate for Orchestra Lumos throughout Fairfield County and the State of Connecticut.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will be an experienced senior executive with a deep love of music, a passion for connecting audiences with orchestras, and a track record of success in orchestra management. The candidate will have a thorough knowledge of symphonic music and strong experience working with solo and creative artists across musical genres at a high professional level. The successful candidate will have the demonstrated ability to be an effective partner with the Music Director, musicians, Board, and staff as they realize a collective vision for Orchestra Lumos.
The successful candidate will be a willing and enthusiastic fundraiser with a track record for achieving and exceeding contributed income goals from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government. The candidate will have the demonstrated ability to design and lead annual fund, endowment, capital, and special project fundraising campaigns.
The successful candidate will be an effective manager of people and projects and will have strong budgeting and financial management skills. The candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire and motivate both professionals and volunteers to meet and exceed expectations.
The candidate will have a strong working knowledge of the business of music, including recording, electronic media, and commissioning. The candidate will have experience negotiating and working within a collective bargaining environment and a reputation for fairness and transparency.
The successful candidate will have the ability to oversee the design and implementation of effective marketing campaigns and audience development efforts across multiple communities and venues. The candidate will be an engaged listener and an effective communicator who is able to speak and write persuasively about the value and importance of Orchestra Lumos to Fairfield County. The candidate will have the demonstrated ability to develop, nurture, and sustain positive relationships with patrons, donors, and a diverse range of stakeholders throughout the County.
The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker who is creative, energetic, innovative, and curious. The candidate will be a person with integrity and high ethical standards. The candidate will be persistent and persuasive and will have the ability to align differing points of view to achieve a shared goal.
The successful candidate will be able to accept a work schedule that regularly includes concerts and events on nights and weekends. The candidate will live within commuting distance of offices in Stamford, CT, and will work on site no fewer than three days a week.
Compensation
Orchestra Lumos offers a competitive and equitable compensation and benefits package. The salary range for this position is $130,000 to $160,000 annually, plus a generous benefits package that includes paid time off and holiday pay; health insurance; life insurance; and a voluntary 401K retirement plan with an employer match of two percent. The Orchestra will also provide assistance with relocation if needed.
Applications
Orchestra Lumos is an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcomes recommendations, nominations, and applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, religion, political affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, marital status, or any other basis protected by law. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and able to complete an I-9 form to verify their identity and employment eligibility.
Please submit a cover letter that describes your specific interest in the mission and work of Orchestra Lumos and your qualifications for the position as described in the candidate profile. Please send this letter with a resumé. On a separate sheet include the names and contact information for several professional references. All applications will be treated as confidential and references will not be contacted without the applicant’s knowledge and agreement.
Electronic submissions are requested. Send to:
Orchestra Lumos – President and CEO
c/o Catherine French Group
2500 Q Street, NW, Suite 623
Washington, DC. 20007
applications@catherinefrenchgroup.com(Adobe Acrobat PDF attachments only, please)
The position will remain open until filled. The Search Committee will begin to review credentials in early August.
- Adult Programs Manager, Mark Morris Dance Group
The Mark Morris Dance Group is seeking an Adult Programs Manager to support our growing Mark Morris Dance Center Adult Program of approximately 65 weekly drop-in classes, seasonal 6-week Intro series, and monthly community classes and workshops. This position is focused on delivering programming excellence and increasing programming visibility, diversity and engagement with both professional and recreational dancer communities.
As a member of the Education and Community Engagement team reporting to the Director of Education, this role manages adult program faculty relationships, student registration systems and account management, special programming initiatives, evaluations and reporting.
Collaborating closely with the Director of Education and Director of the Mark Morris Dance Center, this position plays a central role in helping the Adult Program meet its annual revenue goals through student retention and high-quality customer service while prioritizing welcoming and inclusion for the Dance Center’s 1,000+ students of all ages and abilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Administrative Responsibilities
- Manage MMDG’s Adult Class registration software, maintaining the online class schedule, troubleshooting system issues, and providing account management support.
- In coordination with HR and Payroll, ensure all Adult Program faculty employment paperwork is completed for new hires (teaching artists, musicians, assistants, substitutes). Ensure attendance is recorded correctly for faculty payroll submission and processing.
- Maintain and distribute up-to-date policies and procedures to Adult Program faculty and substitutes.
- Work with the Director of Education and Director of the Mark Morris Dance Center to create revenue projections and track revenue goals for Adult Programs.
Programmatic Responsibilities
- Work with the Director of Education to:
- Recruit, hire, onboard and liaise with teaching artists and accompanists for Adult Programs.
- Evaluate programming success and feedback for program improvement. Provide and assess class attendance and sales reports.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for Adult Program students, responding to inquiries and feedback, ensuring a high standard of customer service is delivered.
- Provide front desk staff with accurate and timely program information so they may support smooth operations for Adult Programs.
- Respond to onsite programming issues in real time; address concerns with or between faculty, students, and staff as needed.
- Work with the Facilities and Operations teams to schedule and manage access to studio space and resources as well as provide support with set-ups and AV for Adult Programs.
- Collaborate with Marketing to develop and disseminate promotional materials (digital and print). Capture photos and video of Adult Program classes and events when needed.
- Assist in planning and providing day-of support for Adult Program events.
- Serve as a designated Dance Center Fire Guard and assist in the event of an emergency.
- Assist with additional responsibilities and special projects as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
• No
Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:
- Minimum of three years of relevant industry experience; an understanding of and interest in the New York dance field and cultural sector
- Minimum of three years of customer service and administrative experience
- Proficiency with MS 365 and experience with SharePoint and other web-based software preferred
- Experience with Mindbody, Zendesk, and Active network a plus.
Special Requirements:
- Ability to work occasional weekends or adjusted hours for special programs and events
- First Aid and CPR/AED Certification + refresher courses offered annually
- FDNY Certificate of Fitness F03 (Place of assembly emergency personnel) + recertification (required every 3 years)
- Dance Center Floor Warden Safety Training
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Requirements:
- Exceptional organizational skills
- Strong attention to detail and excellent follow-through
- Extremely reliable and dedicated
- Ability to handle multiple assignments and prioritize work accordingly
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Congenial and collaborative team player with a sense of humor and humility
- Resourceful, versatile, proactive problem-solver
- Ability to productively interact with peers, customers, and management
SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, non-exempt position that requires on-site work; 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday 10am-6pm. Ability and willingness to flex one’s schedule to address Adult Program needs.
YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE IF YOU:
- Have extensive experience with database management and reporting. You enjoy using data to shape strategy and programming.
- Thrive in customer-facing roles and are skilled at providing thoughtful, responsive, and friendly service to a diverse adult student population.
- Are deeply passionate about adult dance education and understand the unique needs of adult learners across all levels and dance styles.
- Are organized and a proactive communicator who works collaboratively across departments, with teaching artists, and with the broader community.
- Bring an entrepreneurial spirit, a sense of ownership, and a desire to contribute to an inclusive, artistically vibrant environment.
- Love our work at the Dance Center and align with our core values. You’re inspired by the ways in which we celebrate our diverse community, pursue excellence in all that we do, advance access, exposure and opportunity to dance and music, and cultivate creativity.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Paid vacation, sick/personal leave, holidays and bonus days
- Employee Health and Life insurance covered 100%, Flexible Spending Plan, Voluntary vision and dental coverage, Pre-tax commuter benefit, 403(b) retirement plan
- Access to special events and MMDG performances (when available)
- Access to free and discounted classes at the Dance Center and online
- Invitations to cultural events extended to staff members by community partners.
To join our team, please submit your resume along with a cover letter addressed to Bianca Golden, Director of Education. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. In your cover letter, please respond to the following questions:
- Why are you interested in working at the Mark Morris Dance Group?
- What makes an ideal learning and creative space for the adult dancer?
- MMDG is a values-driven organization; please review our core values of Community, Excellence, Creativity, and Access and discuss an instance in your professional career where you have demonstrated at least two of them.
- MAJOR GIFTS OFFICER, Paper Mill Playhouse
Status: Full-Time/On-site/Benefits Eligible/Exempt
Reports to: Director of Development
Position Overview
Reporting to the Director of Development (DOD), the Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a critical member of the Development team and plays a central role in helping to advance Paper Mill Playhouse’s philanthropic goals. This full-time, exempt position is responsible for managing and growing a portfolio of 200+ individual donors and prospects with the capacity to give 4-, 5-, and 6-figure gifts. The MGO works closely with the DOD, Associate Director of Development, and departments across the organization to develop and implement strategies that increase contributions from high-net-worth individuals and related family foundations.
The MGO serves as the primary manager of the Center Stage Society ($1,200+ annual giving), Paper Mill’s premier donor circle, and leads stewardship and engagement strategies. The MGO also oversees Paper Mill’s planned giving program, the Ovation Society, cultivating and expanding relationships with legacy donors and prospects.
In addition to these responsibilities, the MGO partners with the Director of Development to support fundraising efforts for the $43.7 million Next Act Capital Campaign, helping to secure major gifts for the renovation and expansion of the theater’s facilities.
This role requires availability for early morning, evening, and weekend hours to accommodate events, performances, and cultivation opportunities. The MGO is a results-driven, donor-centric professional who thrives in a collaborative environment, working closely with institutional leadership and across departments to ensure a unified, mission-driven approach to relationship building and fundraising.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Major Gifts & Portfolio Management
- Manage a portfolio of 200+ individual donors and prospects, developing tailored strategies for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
- Oversee and grow the Center Stage Society ($1,200+), ensuring exceptional donor experiences and recognition.
- Identify, research, qualify, and re-engage new and lapsed high-net-worth prospects, in partnership with the Donor Research and Prospect Manager.
- Secure major gifts (4–6 figures+) in support of organizational priorities, including annual operations and campaign objectives.
- Contribute to the success of the Next Act Capital Campaign by managing assigned prospects and supporting donor strategy, cultivation, and solicitation efforts in partnership with the Director of Development and Executive Director.
- Lead the growth of the Ovation Society, integrating planned giving strategies and cultivating long-term relationships with legacy donors.
- Establish and lead engagement strategies with key financial advisors and Donor Advised Fund representatives.
- Support the Director of Development in managing select donor relationships and campaign alignment.
- Collaborate closely with the Associate Director of Development to ensure strategic alignment and donor coordination among a variety of special events and other annual supporters outside of Center Stage Society, etc.
Donor Stewardship & Events
- Partner with appropriate team members to ensure consistent, thoughtful stewardship across all giving levels.
- In partnership with the Associate Director of Development and the Special Events Coordinator, plan and execute donor stewardship activities, impact communications, and recognition efforts.
- Support and attend key fundraising, stewardship, and cultivation events, including but not limited to the Gala, Golf Outing, Opening Nights receptions, and others as scheduled.
- Represent the organization at performances and special events to provide hospitality and build donor relationships, including hosting the donor lounge as scheduled.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Supervise the Individual Giving Associate, providing mentorship, performance oversight, and growth opportunities.
- Work collaboratively across the Development team to achieve departmental goals and foster a culture of philanthropy, as well as accountability and teamwork.
- Contribute to department-wide planning, strategy development, and goal setting from a major gifts’ perspective.
Operations & Administration
- Maintain accurate donor records, proposals, and activity tracking using Paper Mill’s CRM system (Tessitura).
- Prepare donor briefings, proposals, reports, and other materials as needed.
- Stay current with fundraising trends.
- Participate in evening and weekend events as required, and perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree or relevant on-the-job experience; CFRE certification, a plus.
- Minimum of 6-8 years of progressive development experience, with a strong track record of securing major gifts; experience with capital campaign, a plus.
- Proven ability to cultivate, solicit, and close major gifts, including pipeline development and donor portfolio management.
- Demonstrated success in planned or legacy giving program growth strongly preferred.
- Experience managing donor circles or giving societies is highly desirable.
- Experience fundraising in the performing arts or cultural sector; knowledge of the New Jersey philanthropic landscape, a plus.
- Superior written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to build trust, inspire action, and engage donors confidently, including through public speaking and direct solicitation.
- Excellent writing skills with the ability to craft persuasive, mission-aligned materials and solicitation appeals.
- Highly collaborative team player who can also work independently; demonstrates initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to learning.
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, goal-driven environment.
- High attention to detail and commitment to quality and professionalism, especially in handling sensitive donor information.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from a wide range of cultural, social and professional backgrounds.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with fundraising CRMs (e.g., Tessitura, Raiser’s Edge) preferred.
- Must be available to work evenings and weekends as required for donor cultivation and events.
- Passion for the performing arts and alignment with Paper Mill’s mission.
COMPENSATION
Salary range: $90,000 – $100,000, depending on experience. Paper Mill Playhouse provides comprehensive benefits including comprehensive insurance benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, disability); paid time off; 403(b) retirement savings account with a 3% employer match; access to a flexible spending account; and access to various performances, educational events, and professional development opportunities.
Apply
Paper Mill Playhouse is committed to hiring high caliber individuals of diverse backgrounds. We strive to provide our staff with a nurturing and inclusive environment, equal for all employees and optimal for their success. Paper Mill celebrates diversity and believes it enriches our work environment and the work on our stage.
Send resume and cover letter describing how your experience makes you the right candidate for this position to Recruiting@PaperMill.org with subject line: Major Gifts Officer. No phone calls, please.
About Paper Mill Playhouse
Founded in 1934, Paper Mill Playhouse has been a cherished New Jersey arts institution for more than 80 years. Paper Mill brings new American Musical Theater to life, with a national reputation that continues to grow. Collaboration with other regional theaters and leading independent producers brings over 200,000 New Jersey audience members annually the best in musical theater, from celebrated revivals to groundbreaking new works. In 2016, Paper Mill received the Regional Theatre Tony award in recognition of its contribution to the national field, the industry’s highest honor.
Paper Mill Playhouse facilities include a 1,150-seat theater with attendant backstage dressing rooms, offices, and production support areas; front-of-house lobbies with bars, concessions and restroom facilities; an 80 seat restaurant; a small house with two apartments; 2,500 square feet of education studios; a NY Costume Shop; three parking lots and grounds.
Our Mission
Paper Mill Playhouse entertains, inspires, and enriches lives. As the nation’s premier musical theater, we foster a creative environment to advance the art form, educate students, develop future theater lovers, nurture inclusion, and provide access for all.
Paper Mill Playhouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer where the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything we do. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. We strive to create opportunities, access, resources, and rewards that are available to and benefit everyone. Paper Mill Playhouse is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of races, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender equity, gender expression, and Veteran status.
- Lauding Lauder: The Consummate Museum Benefactor Dies at 92
I’ve been unpardonably remiss about this (having been uncharacteristically off-blog for two months). But I must belatedly add my voice
- What Happens When You Expose Octopuses To Art?
The Japanese artist Shimabuku wanted to find out — so he started making artworks for them. – CNN
- The Power Of Gossip And Spiritual Ease
I was able to differentiate between types of gossip through this association: the kind that aims to bring a rival low, that tries to set the record straight about some unfairly maligned individual, or that is akin to a secret stock tip and meant to benefit a shrewd listener. Every subject was fair game. – The Walrus
- Just Whom Is Spotify’s New Time-Limited Audiobook Subscription For? Not Enough Time For The Whole Book.
The 30-hour limit won’t get you through titles like George R. R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones or Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings, for example. You could listen to two or three smaller novels instead, but if you want to re-listen to them in the future, you’ll have to sacrifice those hours again. – The Verge
- Yale Art Gallery Withdraws Grant Applications After NEA Anti-DEI Rules
The Yale Art Gallery, the renowned university museum in New Haven, Connecticut, has withdrawn two federal grant applications for an African art exhibition after rejecting the new, anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) stipulations introduced by the Trump administration. – ARTnews
- Director of Marketing and Communications, Mark Morris Dance Group
The Mark Morris Dance Group is seeking a Director of Marketing and Communications to strategically advance our visibility, reputation, and audience engagement. The Director is responsible for promoting the Mark Morris Dance Group’s performing company, Dance Center, Dance for PD, school, and community programs. As we approach our 45th anniversary this position will play an integral role in ensuring the organization’s brand is effectively communicated to diverse audiences, including ticket buyers, donors, students, community members, press, presenters and other industry professionals.
As a member of the senior leadership team, the Director collaborates closely with the Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Development to align marketing efforts with institutional goals. The Director will also lead external communications, represent the organization publicly, and play a key role in driving messaging for major initiatives.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this role manages branding, content strategy, digital and print communications, advertising, public relations, and audience development initiatives. This role oversees a team of three to four staff members, including a Marketing Manager, Creative Content; Marketing and Digital Engagement Associate; Dancer Social Media Liaison and external consultants.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Strategy and Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy to enhance local, national, and global awareness of the organization’s mission and programs.
- Communicate regularly with the Executive Director and department heads to align marketing strategies with institutional priorities.
- Collaborate closely with the Development Department leveraging marketing strategies to design and execute integrated campaigns that build and diversify the organization’s base of support, strengthen donor relationships, and drive philanthropic engagement.
- Lead and mentor a high-performing marketing team, providing strategic direction, professional development, and performance management.
- Promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, and creative thinking, encouraging the team to experiment with new strategies to stay motivated and bring fresh ideas to the table.
- Oversee and manage the marketing budget, effectively allocating resources to achieve marketing goals within budget.
- Develop and implement crisis communication strategies to safeguard the organization’s reputation and ensure clear, transparent messaging during challenging periods internally and externally.
Audience Development and Revenue Growth
- Drive audience development, engagement, and revenue growth by creating and managing marketing campaigns for performances, education programs, and community engagement initiatives.
- Develop and execute strategies to support the recruitment and retention of students across all education programs.
- Partner with the Development Department to enhance audience engagement through targeted email automation, segmentation, and personalized donor journeys that drive sustained support and increased giving.
- Support Artistic department and booking representative in the active promotion of the Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble to presenters, venues, and festivals, leveraging marketing materials, media campaigns, and strategic partnerships to expand performance opportunities.
- Advise, assist, and support presenters in their efforts to sell tickets to MMDG performances.
Marketing Execution and Content Development
- Manage all marketing efforts, including digital and social media advertising, SEO, and email marketing.
- Lead brand management efforts, ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across all digital and print communications.
- Develop and implement comprehensive social media strategies to drive engagement, visibility, and community connections, including influencer and partner collaborations.
- Oversee content creation and media production, collaborating with designers, photographers, videographers, and copywriters to develop compelling storytelling materials.
- Leverage marketing and development automation tools to streamline campaigns and enhance personalization at scale.
- Create and execute inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible marketing strategies to engage a diverse audience.
- Lead e-commerce marketing strategies, including online merchandise, Digital Dance Center, and virtual offerings.
Data, Analysis, and Innovation
- Track, analyze, and report on campaign performance; use data-driven insights to optimize strategies and improve outcomes.
- Implement testing frameworks (A/B testing and multivariate analysis) to continuously refine campaign strategies and ensure marketing initiatives deliver optimal results.
- Collaborate with cross functional teams—including IT, operations, and program leads—to ensure marketing technology and initiatives are fully integrated and support overall organizational objectives.
- Monitor industry trends in arts and culture to ensure the organization’s offerings remain relevant, competitive, and community focused.
- Conduct surveys and gather feedback from constituents to evaluate and enhance programming, ensuring offerings meet community needs and align with organizational goals.
- Oversee the ongoing integration of Salesforce, consolidating audience, donor, and participant data from multiple platforms.
Partnerships and External Relations
- Develop strong relationships with press and external partners to maximize coverage and visibility.
- Manage external consultants and vendors, including PR/media firms, digital agencies, freelance designers, and content creators.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Yes
Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:
- 8-10 years of marketing experience, preferably in the cultural or performing arts sector.
- Proven expertise in branding, digital marketing, audience development, and content strategy.
- Strong background in campaign management, media relations, and storytelling.
- Experience with Salesforce (or other) CRM systems, Marketing Cloud Account Engagement, email marketing platforms, Google Analytics and other digital metrics platforms, and SEO.
- Demonstrated ability to leverage data and analytics tools to measure campaign performance and inform strategy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft O365, MS SharePoint, Google Workspace and WordPress (or similar tools).
You will be successful in this role if you:
- Are an Outstanding Leader – You have an inspiring creative vision and see obstacles as opportunities. Once you have a goal in sight, you are dedicated in your pursuit. You thrive on continued learning and professional development.
- Have Launched New Programs and Initiatives – You know the ins and outs of audience/customer-base segmentation and development. – You have a track record of significantly growing fans or customers.
- Have a Strong Aesthetic Sensibility – You have a great eye for design and understand how to support and interpret the artistic director’s aesthetic and vision.
- Are an Extraordinary Project Manager – You are incredibly organized and can manage multiple initiatives, keeping the larger group on track to meet deadlines.
- Love our Work and Align with our Core Values – You’re inspired by the ways in which we celebrate our diverse community, pursue excellence in all that we do, advance access, exposure and opportunity to dance and music, and cultivate creativity. You’ve seen a show or taken a class, and you’re hooked!
SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, exempt position that requires on-site work. A flexible hybrid schedule may be considered after the successful completion of a six-month on-site introductory period.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Paid vacation, sick/personal leave, holidays and bonus days
- Employee Health and Life insurance covered 100%, Flexible Spending Plan, Voluntary vision and dental coverage, Pre-tax commuter benefit, 403(b) retirement plan
- Access to special events and MMDG performances (when available)
- Access to free and discounted classes at the Dance Center and online
- Invitations to cultural events are extended to staff members by community partners.
To join our team, please include a cover letter addressed to Nancy Umanoff, Executive Director, with your resume submission. Your cover letter must highlight relevant experience; resume submittals without a cover letter will not be considered.
- Stephen Petronio Company To Give Its Last-Ever Performances At Jacob’s Pillow Next Week
The 69-year-old choreographer announced earlier this year that this season, the company’s 40th anniversary, is its last. Two years ago, he announced that the dance center he had opened in upstate New York would shut down after only six years. Both closures are fallout from the COVID pandemic. – MassLive
- How Trump Managed To Kill Bipartisaan Support For Public Broadcasting
Trump had campaigned on retribution and made the news media a core element of his grievance. Public broadcasting has offered a ready target, given the government funding, and he has repeatedly claimed NPR and PBS demonstrate ideological bias. – NPR
- How Trump’s Attacks On Journalists Are Weakening The First Amendment
They show Trump has found tactical ways to prevail in his nonstop battle to discredit outlets that report critically on him and his activities. – Variety
- Fantastical Set Designer John Conklin, 88
The term “prodigy” rarely applies to set designers, but Mr. Conklin’s instincts were on full display in his youth. Growing up in Hartford, Conn., he attended symphonies and operas with his family, and by the age of 10 he was building his own models, based on photographs he found perusing the magazine Opera News. – The New York Times
- The Most Dangerous Book In America?
“What has been labeled the ‘bible of the racist right’ has influenced American culture in a way only fiction can. … There is no exaggeration in saying that The Turner Diaries and books like it have played a part in spreading hateful ideas that now even influence government policy.” – The Atlantic (MSN)
- The search for the very nice arts philanthropist
Last month, the Scottish government came up with a one-time grant of £300,000 to cover the Edinburgh International Book Festival, after pressure from environmental protestors caused the previous sponsor, Baillie Gifford, to back out.
This week in Canada, its premier book award, the Giller Prize, having lost its primary sponsor, Scotiabank, after protests, has appealed to the Canadian government to keep things afloat:
Without stable funding, the Giller Foundation says the prize will be forced to end operations at the end of 2025, according to a report Wednesday in the Globe and Mail.
The annual $100,000 prize for fiction ended its 20-year partnership with lead sponsor Scotiabank earlier this year. At that time, Giller Foundation executive director Elana Rabinovitch did not comment on the financial effect the loss of the lead sponsor would have on the prize’s future.
The foundation has drafted a letter to the federal government asking for $5 million in funding over three years to help it continue operations, the Globe reports. The letter has reportedly not yet been sent to Ottawa.
“We are incredibly bullish about the future of the prize and all of its various programs and activities, and are actively engaging with potential sponsors,” Rabinovitch said in an email to Q&Q on Thursday. “Our aim is to host an amazing event this fall that not only champions Canadian authors but also upholds our long-standing tradition of honouring exceptional Canadian fiction. Our focus remains steadfastly on celebrating Canadian authors and their books.”
Rabinovitch told the Globe that the foundation is considering scrapping the televised gala event and national author tour in the future as a way to keep the prize alive, but did not provide Q&Q with any further comment.
The goal here seems to be to find a corporation or an individual who accumulated billions of dollars in assets, which they are willing to use, in part, to patronize the arts, who earned those billions doing very nice things. Failing that, when a long-time sponsor is found lacking in some moral dimension, it is then up to the government to fill the funding gap, though in the long run this is bound to change the nature of the prize, and also brings with it the need for a justification of why the government ought to use its funds this way. “But the state should fund the arts” isn’t a good enough response, because state support for the arts can do many things besides giving $100,000 prizes for fiction. I like fiction, and I like public funding of the arts, but were I still a Canadian taxpayer I would balk at the suggestion that this is a good use of $5 million, money that a Canadian bank was, in the past, pleased to provide.
I hope that the planet can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, and I think the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza are immoral. But if I feel so strongly about those issues that I refuse to have anything to do with any company that has any ties to such things, then I have to accept that I might not have a book festival or a fiction prize anymore – that would be a price to be paid for my convictions. Saying “well, the government can fund it” is a cop out, too easy.
Cross-posted at https://michaelrushton.substack.com/
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In gaps between jobs, an assortment of artists, coders and labourers played policemen, caterers and journalists. As one of the extras playing a journalist, I could draw on personal experience. – The Observer (UK)
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CBS knows what all this looks like. They’re trying very hard to address the optics. – Washington Post
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The tragedy of the contemporary academy is that even when traditional liberal learning clearly wins with students and donors, it loses with those in power. – The New York Times
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“The annual $100,000 prize for fiction ended its 20-year partnership with lead sponsor Scotiabank earlier this year. At that time, Giller Foundation executive director Elana Rabinovitch did not comment on the financial effect the loss of the lead sponsor would have on the prize’s future.” – Quill & Quire
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“(He) evolved from a conservative, high-profile member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints into an outspoken atheist and liberal, all while using his pen to skewer presidents and the powerful.” (He liked to describe himself as an “editorial harpoonist.”) – The Washington Post (MSN)
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The cancellation, effective next May, of US late-night TV’s highest-rated program comes as CBS’s corporate parent, Paramount Global, seeks FCC approval of an $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media. Colbert has long been a strong and high-profile critic of Donald Trump, including in his monologues on The Late Show. – CNN
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The page was entitled “Creepy Portrait Art,” and the pictures were, as promised, incredibly creepy. Dozens of student portraits, mostly in crayon, depicted a grab bag of nightmarish externalization: twelve- and thirteen-year-olds with bleeding wounds, sutured mouths, and dangling eyeballs. – The Walrus
- Editors Used To be The Gatekeepers. Now That They’re Largely Gone, Should We Bring Them Back?
We still live in the world Condé Nast and its intimidating editors created. We just don’t know how to make sense of it, because we lack the requisite curatorial eyes. – Washington Post (MSN)
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As the project rises on global charts and dominates Viral 50 playlists, artists and industry professionals are asking urgent questions about authenticity, consent and the future of music creation. – ArtsHub
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It’s the latest outbreak of a recurring argument: the central government in Delhi (in Hindi-speaking north-central India) pushes for Hindi in place of the British colonizers’ tongue, while other states argue that with English, every region is on an equal footing and Hindi won’t crowd out their own languages. – Deutsche Welle
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Social connections establish pathways of influence that can facilitate the spread of germs, mental illness and even behaviors. We can be profoundly influenced by others within our social networks, for better or for worse. – The Conversation
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House Appropriations Interior Subcommittee recommended 35 percent cuts to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) budget, and a 17.2 percent reduction in the Kennedy Center’s budget. If passed, this would be the NEA’s lowest allocation since 2007. – American Theatre
