Executive Director

Position: Executive Director

Reports to: Board of Directors

Classification: Full-time, exempt, salary commensurate with experience

Number of positions available: 1

The Executive Director will serve as the operational and administrative leader of the organization, overseeing all non-artistic functions. The Executive Director will be responsible for brand and reputation leadership, revenue growth (earned and contributed), community engagement, and day to day operations. This is a primarily remote position requiring a highly motivated, organized, and self-directed professional who can work independently while maintaining close communication with the Board and Artistic Producers.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

• Manage the daily operations of the theatre company in alignment with its mission and strategic goals.
• Work independently to prioritize and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Supervise and support part-time staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.

Development & Fundraising

• Build and implement a comprehensive development strategy to increase contributed revenue.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective donors, sponsors, and grant-making organizations.
• Plan and execute donor events, fundraising campaigns, and community engagement activities in collaboration with the Board.
• Research and prepare grant applications and manage reporting requirements.

Partnership Development & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison for community partners, ensuring consistent communication and mutually beneficial engagement.
• Identify new opportunities for collaboration that align with the theatre's mission, programming, and values.
• Help identify and cultivate potential donors, sponsors, and grant opportunities linked to community partnerships.

Marketing & Brand Building

• Oversee marketing, communications, and public relations efforts, including social media, newsletters, and press outreach.
• Ensure consistent messaging across all platforms and materials.

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Work with the Board Treasurer to develop and manage the annual budget.
• Track revenue and expenses, ensuring fiscal responsibility and timely reporting.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the Board of Directors in conjunction with the Board Treasurer.

Experience & Education

• Proven leadership and management experience in the non-profit sector (arts experience a plus, but not required).
• Proven revenue growth in both earned and contributed income; comfort soliciting major gifts.
• Experience managing bills, invoices, and day-to-day financial processes.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, primarily remote, and resource-limited environment.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience in arts administration, nonprofit management, marketing/communications, or related field preferred

Skills & Attributes

• Brand-first thinker with outstanding communication and presentation skills.
• Relationship-builder who is visible in the community and credible with donors, press, and civic leaders.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Data-literate; comfortable with CRM/ticketing, email automations, analytics dashboards, and social platforms.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, accessibility, and representing our community with authenticity.

Iowa Stage Theatre Company is an equal opportunity employer.

Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to by November 7, 2025

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45, $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Experience:

• Fundraising: 2 years (Preferred)
• Grant writing: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Des Moines, IA 50309