Berkshire Art Center Executive Director

Berkshire Art Center (BAC), formerly known as IS183 Art School, is the premier provider of high-quality, hands-on visual arts instruction throughout Berkshire County. Founded in 1991 as a welcoming space where art enthusiasts of all ages and abilities could gather to experience creative expression, BAC has evolved significantly. Today, we reach students through studio-based classes, artistic events, and out-of-school engagement programs. BAC serves over 2,500 people each year, including around 500 students from local public schools through our after-school and out-of-school engagement programs. We are dedicated to fostering and sustaining visual artists through education, exhibitions, and events. Today the organization has a budget of approximately $650,000 annual.

In 2007 BAC launched the Learning Through Arts program which brings the studio art experience directly to K-12 students in our county. These classes offer the young people from all part of our community opportunities to:

• Create art inspired by local museum exhibitions.

• Connect with local artists.

• Empower themselves by crafting their own artistic creations.

BAC remains committed to enriching the lives of our community members through the transformative power of art. 

We are seeking a passionate and visionary Executive Director to lead Berkshire Art Center into its next phase of growth and impact. The Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation within the organization. This individual will serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for Berkshire Art Center, representing our mission and values to stakeholders, partners, and the broader community. The Executive Director supervises a team of three full time and three part time employees. 

Development & Stewardship

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure financial support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government sources.

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with major donors, sponsors, and partners.

• Oversee grant writing and reporting processes, ensuring compliance and timely submissions.

• Organize and lead fundraising events and campaigns to generate revenue and enhance community engagement.

Strategic & Programmatic Oversight

• Develop and execute the organization's strategic plan in alignment with its mission and vision.

• Identify new opportunities for growth and expansion of programs and services including partnering with other organizations to enhance impact.

• Monitor industry trends and ensure the organization remains relevant and competitive.

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set organizational goals and priorities.

• In collaboration with the Program Director and Community Engagement Director, oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services to ensure they meet community needs and organizational objectives with an eye towards innovation, quality, and alignment with mission.

• Regularly assess program effectiveness and suggest adjustments as needed.

Finance, Operations & Human Resources

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

• Develop and manage the organization's budget, ensuring financial stability and sustainability.

• Oversee regular preparation of financial reports, including cash flow projections and budget forecasts for the Board with assistance and guidance from finance consultant.

• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

• Implement and maintain effective policies and procedures to guide operations.

• Serve as primary contact for all issues related to technology and facilities management.

• Oversee all human resources functions, including payroll and benefits management.

Staff Management & Leadership

• Provide strong, visionary leadership to the organization, inspiring and motivating staff.

• Facilitate open communication and collaboration among staff members.

• Lead regular staff meetings and ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.

• Foster a positive organizational culture that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Address and resolve any HR-related issues or conflicts that arise.

• Represent the organization at public events, conferences, and in the media, serving as the primary spokesperson.

There are innumerable ways to learn, grow, and excel professionally. We respect this when we review applications and take a broad look at the experience of each applicant. We want to get to know you and the unique strengths you will bring to the work. This said, we are most likely to be interested in your candidacy if you can demonstrate the majority of the qualifications and experiences listed below.

• 5-7 years of progressive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and/or cultural arts organization.

• Demonstrated track record of successful strategic planning, financial management, and program development.

• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, board members, and volunteers.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and build consensus.

• Proven ability to cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding agencies, and secure financial support for organizational initiatives.

• Passion for the arts and a commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of organizational practice.

• Proficient in GoogleSuite & cloud-based database management such as Airtable and Bloomerang.

This is a full time position. Berkshire Art Center has a primary location in Stockbridge, MA and secondary location in Pittsfield, MA. The Executive Director will be expected to be on site frequently and sometimes at short notice. While there is potential for some hybrid work, the role is not remote. The salary for this position is $85,000 annual. Our competitive benefits include health and dental insurance, generous paid vacation and holiday schedule, and separate sick leave. BAC is closed for a 10 day restorative break each winter.

Interested candidates are encouraged to promptly submit their application through our online portal. All applicants will receive a response to their application. Please email mcoleman@positivelypartners.org with questions or for support submitting your application.

Candidates who advance should expect:

• initial interviews with the recruitment team at Positively Partners, beginning in August

• a virtual interview with Board members

• panel interviews with other BAC staff, faculty, and stakeholders

The target start date is Fall 2024. Positively Partners is committed to conducting an equitable, accessible assessment process. If you would like to request accommodation during the interview process, please email search@positivelypartners.org. Requests for accommodation will be handled confidentially. 

Berkshire Art Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

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