Executive Director

Executive Director Location: San Francisco, CA Type: Full-time, Salaried, in-person Salary: $115,000/year, commensurate with experience Please apply using this application form (https://forms.gle/gydQRFgMfRs8G8D3A). About Circus Center Circus Center is the Bay Area's longest-standing nonprofit circus arts education facility, now in its 5th decade of operations It specializes in circus disciplines such as acrobatics, aerial arts, flying trapeze, contortion, clowning, and other circus arts. As a vibrant community hub, it offers classes for youth & adults, professional-quality shows, artist residencies, and community outreach programs. Circus Center's mission includes making circus arts accessible to everyone, with satellite programs and scholarships supporting aspiring young artists. Role Summary Circus Center is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead the organization. This role involves managing all operations, overseeing the budget, and driving our strategic vision. The Executive Director will serve as the public face of the organization, enhancing its reputation and visibility within the arts community. The right candidate will apply best practices in business operations and nonprofit development to the role of acclimating Circus Center to success in achieving its mission. Key responsibilities Development & Fundraising: Lead fundraising initiatives including keystone campaigns, cultivating relationships with donors, and securing diverse income streams. Program Oversight: Ensure programs are mission‑aligned, effectively managed, and financially stable by overseeing program selection, scheduling, and quality standards. Collaborate with program staff to assess needs, measure outcomes, and adjust resources to optimize impact and sustainability. Marketing & Community Engagement: Oversee marketing efforts and work with marketing teammates to utilize digital platforms and implement strategies to increase community engagement. Financial Management: Develop and monitor budgets, ensuring financial sustainability. Administration & HR: Oversee administrative staff and facilities, ensuring compliance with safety and legal regulations and coverage of essential operations. Manage HR needs, including recruitment, training, and staff development, to maintain a well‑supported and effective team. Internal & External Communication: Manage and execute internal communications and public relations, including the effective handling of sensitive topics. Board & Community Relations: Partner with the Board of Directors on strategic planning and key initiatives, building strong community partnerships and leading collaborative projects that drive the organization’s long‑term success. This position reports to the Circus Center Board of Directors. Candidates must pass background checks, provide proof of select vaccinations, and must have valid authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future. As Circus Center operates 7‑days a week, the role requires self‑management and flexibility to meet the needs of activities outside typical business hours. The ideal candidate is willing and able to meet staff, students, and instructors on site at least 4 days per week. Benefits include Health, dental, vision, vacation, sick time, transportation, and more. Circus Center is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please apply using this application form (https://forms.gle/gydQRFgMfRs8G8D3A). Qualifications Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience; a master's degree is preferred 10+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years in a senior management or Executive Director role Proven success in fundraising and financial management that meet the demands of this organization's size and complexity Strong leadership, people management, and strategic planning skills A pragmatic and organized approach Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, committed to inclusivity and community engagement Experience working in performing arts, education, or circus organizations. Experience in running a youth program is a plus #J-18808-Ljbffr