Managing Director

Managing Director POST DATE: Feb 21, 2025 STATUS: Full-time permanent, exempt SALARY: Level One of Ars Nova’s Fair Pay Guidelines: $135,000 - $145,000 annually, paid bi-weekly Ars Nova is seeking an accomplished and dynamic Managing Director (MD) to help guide the organization through its next exciting phase. In this highly collaborative role, the MD will oversee day-to-day operations, financial management, fundraising and marketing efforts, while fostering a creative and inclusive environment that supports the company’s mission: to discover, develop, and launch singular theater, comedy, and music artists. This position offers a unique opportunity to work alongside Ars Nova’s Co-Artistic Directors and a talented leadership team, contributing to the development of groundbreaking work and cultivating the next generation of audiences. ABOUT ARS NOVA Ars Nova exists to discover, develop and launch singular theater, comedy and music artists who are in the early stages of their careers. Our dynamic slate of programs supports outside-the-box thinking and encourages innovative, genre-bending work. By providing a protective environment where risk-taking and collaboration are paramount, Ars Nova amplifies the voices of a new generation of diverse artists and audiences, pushing the boundaries of live entertainment by nurturing creative ideas into smart, surprising new work. THE POSITION Reporting directly to the Board Chair, and more broadly to the Executive Committee and full board, the Managing Director co-leads the organization with the Co-Artistic Directors (Co-ADs) and oversees all operational, financial, and strategic initiatives. The MD will play a critical role in balancing business acumen with Ars Nova's bold artistic vision. This position is ideal for a leader who is both highly strategic and comfortable working in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment. SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND COMPETENCIES The responsibilities, competencies and expectations outlined below are representative, not exhaustive. Responsibilities may shift as needed to best align with organizational needs. Organizational Leadership & Strategy: Serve as a key representative of Ars Nova to external stakeholders, including donors, government bodies, and the broader arts community. Cultivate relationships with major donors, foundations, and sponsors to ensure ongoing and sustainable support. Collaborate with the Co-ADs to develop and execute the organization’s vision and strategic priorities. Work to expand Ars Nova’s visibility and reach in service of meeting the mission. Lead and foster a positive, inclusive, and forward-thinking workplace culture with a focus on staff well-being and artistic innovation. Promote collaborative decision-making across all levels of the organization, ensuring alignment between artistic and administrative functions. Financial Oversight & Budget Management: Lead and manage the organization’s $4M annual operating budget, in collaboration with the General Manager and Finance Director. Oversee and ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with GAAP, and effective financial planning across all areas of operations, production, and capital projects. Work closely with the Finance Director and GM to ensure transparency and accountability in all financial matters, including cash flow, payroll, audits, and budgeting processes. Collaborate with the finance team, Board Executive Committee, and outside firm to deliver a successful annual audit. Fundraising & Development: Take a leadership role in Ars Nova’s fundraising efforts, working closely with the Development Director and Institutional Giving Team to develop and implement fundraising strategies. Directly engage with Ars Nova’s Board of Directors, particularly the Executive and Finance Committees, to steward relationships and drive fundraising goals. Represent Ars Nova at key cultivation events, donor meetings, and fundraising initiatives. Work with the Co-ADs to develop long-term strategies for donor engagement and expansion of Ars Nova’s funding base. Human Resources & Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with all employment laws and regulations, including federal, state, and city requirements. Lead HR team and oversee company-wide policies and compliance with all applicable laws. Advise on and manage union and non-union contracts, ensuring that best practices are followed in labor relations. Collaborate with the General Manager to develop and maintain a robust HR system that prioritizes equity and inclusivity. Artist Support & Production Oversight: Foster an environment that empowers artists to take creative risks and dream big. Support Ars Nova’s Producing Team to develop, produce, and manage the work of emerging artists through over 70 public events annually. Partner with the Marketing Director in setting field-leading strategies to drive audience engagement and growth, working collaboratively with the Co-ADs in the creative strategy. Venue & Operations Management: Work with the General Manager to optimize earned income through rentals and venue operations, ensuring successful partnerships with outside groups. Collaborate with the Marketing Director to deliver an exceptional patron experience. IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal Managing Director will be a seasoned arts leader with a unique balance of business savvy and creative vision. We are looking for someone who can drive both the administrative and financial success of Ars Nova while maintaining a focus on fostering an environment where artists and staff can thrive. Skills & Experience: Proven experience in arts administration, theater management, or live-performance producing (or transferrable equivalent). A demonstrated ability to manage large-scale budgets, financial reporting, and operational strategies. Strong background in fundraising, with the ability to cultivate relationships with high-level donors and lead development efforts. Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and union contracts, specifically Off-Broadway and Equity rules. Experience working in a non-profit environment, especially in a leadership role with Board engagement. ABOUT YOU: Strong communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders. A creative, strategic thinker who is comfortable balancing the big picture with day-to-day operational needs. A collaborative leader with a track record of fostering inclusive, positive organizational cultures. A passion for live theater, arts, and artists of all kinds, with a desire to build new audiences and break barriers. Bonus If: Familiarity with Google Suite, and project management tools such as Asana. Expertise in arts law and labor contracts, particularly in Off-Broadway and unionized settings. Experience leading an HR team and best practices. Experience working with and engaging a broad spectrum of community members and constituencies. Please note that Ars Nova currently uses a hybrid work environment. However, this position will require onsite, in-person activity (including some evenings, weekends and holidays), so the applicant should intend to reside in the greater NYC area. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Please submit a resume and a personal statement. Ditch the “cover letter” and speak from the heart about what excites you about this job opportunity.

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