Executive Director

The Natick Center Cultural District (NCCD) seeks a passionate, growth-oriented Executive Director to drive economic and cultural development in Natick Center. This position offers a unique opportunity to represent the interests of Natick Center, promoting its vitality and building connections across the arts, commerce, and civic sectors. The Executive Director will focus on building alliances that attract patrons to Natick Center’s businesses and cultural offerings, fostering partnerships among local businesses, cultural organizations, and the Town of Natick. The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in promoting growth in customer traffic and attracting new businesses, strengthening connections between the community and local businesses, and enhancing Natick Center’s reputation as an economic and cultural hub and a regional tourism destination of note. The Executive Director works collaboratively while balancing multiple responsibilities within a dynamic nonprofit environment. Key Responsibilities 1. Economic Development Foster growth in Natick Center through effective collaboration and synergetic partnerships among local businesses, cultural institutions, and government entities. Facilitate business success through programs, grants, and cross-promotion. Inspire and mobilize Board members, staff, volunteers, and the broader community to drive strategic initiatives. 2. Marketing and Brand Development Lead NCCD’s marketing strategies, brand development, and public relations efforts to promote the value of Natick Center by boosting visibility and community engagement. Effectively utilize broadcast media, social media and digital platforms to promote NCCD’s activities and programs to the public and potential members. Work collaboratively with the MetroWest Visitors Bureau and other regional partners (e.g. The 495/MetroWest Partnership, chambers of commerce, historical organizations). 3. Fundraising and Membership Lead revenue growth, including securing reinvestment from the Town of Natick, grants, sponsorships, memberships, and donations to sustain and grow the District. Manage the membership campaign by strengthening the case for support, developing a competitive benefits structure, and managing the administration of the campaign. Organize and coordinate fundraising events to support financial goals and constituent relationships. 4. Program Development and Community Engagement Leverage the audiences from local arts “anchors” (e.g., The Center for Arts in Natick, Walnut Hill School for the Arts, Morse Institute Library, Natick Art Association) to achieve the goals of the District. Oversee the planning and execution of programs and events that enhance Natick Center’s economic and cultural landscape, including local constituency partnerships and signature events (e.g., Natick Nights, Multicultural Day, PorchFest, and Holiday Hustle). Deliver public presentations to local government, civic, educational, and social organizations to promote the District's impact. 5. Financial Oversight, Governance and Reporting Ensure fiscal responsibility by developing and managing budgets in collaboration with the Treasurer and Finance Committee. Collaborate with the Board, providing timely updates and reports to guide effective governance and strategic decision-making. Ensure compliance with all non-profit regulations, prepare Board reports, and support Executive Committee and Board meeting preparations. Prepare reports and present them periodically to the Natick Select Board. 6. Human Resources and Team Management Oversee volunteer and staff recruitment, training, and development to ensure NCCD has the skills and capabilities to deliver on its mission. Implement effective HR practices, support team growth through training, and manage evaluations and feedback processes. Qualifications: Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, e.g., Business, Nonprofit Management, Arts Administration, or Public Administration. Minimum of 5 years in a leadership role within nonprofit, arts, or community organizations, or equivalent life experience. Key Competencies Demonstrated experience in nonprofitfinancial management, fundraising, and community engagement. Strong leadership and delegation skills with a collaborative, mobilizing approach to managing teams and community stakeholders. Proficiency in management and office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Salesforce, QuickBooks). Preferred Qualifications/Abilities Familiarity with the organization and operations of small non-profits and cultural districts. Flexible schedule to accommodate evening and weekend events as needed. Hands-on approach and a “get it done” attitude, with ability to lift 20 lbs. How To Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to the Natick Center Associates hiring committee by December 1, 2024. Applications and correspondence should be emailed to jobsnatickcenter.org Equal Opportunity Statement The Natick Center Cultural District (NCCD) is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors, employees and applicants. We value diversity and actively seek to attract individuals who bring varied experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. All employment decisions at NCCD are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and provide fair consideration for each candidate, recognizing that diversity strengthens our community and enriches our mission. About this Organization The Natick Center Cultural District is home to more than 200 working artists, The Center For Arts in Natick, the Morse Institute Library, The Walnut Hill School for the Arts, many independently owned businesses and cultural organizations, and an active Parks and Recreation Department. Each makes a unique contribution creating a busy year-round schedule of arts and cultural events. Natick Center Cultural District is hosted by Natick Center Associates, an authorized 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization.