Management Consultants for the Arts
Managing Director | Syracuse Stage
Management Consultants for the Arts, Syracuse, New York, United States,
BACKGROUNDSyracuse Stage (“Stage”), Central New York’s premier professional theatre, seeks its next Managing Director, who will join Artistic Director Robert M. Hupp to lead this storied organization. Celebrating its 50th season, Stage has continuously produced world-class professional theatre since 1974. As the nonprofit, resident professional theatre in residence at Syracuse University, it has been integral to the success of the Department of Drama, one of the leading undergraduate theatre programs in the country. While embedded in the University, Stage is a separate 501(c)(3) organization, governed by its own Board of Trustees.Over the past half-century, Stage has produced more than 300 plays, including a number of world, American, and East Coast premieres. Each season, 70,000 patrons enjoy an adventurous mix of new plays and bold interpretations of classics and musicals. America’s leading writers, actors, directors and designers work and/or have worked at Stage and recent seasons have included new works by Brian Quijada, Rogelio Martinez, Ty Defoe, resident playwright Kyle Bass, Keenan Scott and others. Last year, Stage received $1 million, the largest gift in the theatre's history, to support new work at Stage and the Cold Read Festival of New Plays. Stage has launched two Broadway transfers since the pandemic: Thoughts of a Colored Man (2022) and How to Dance in Ohio (2023). In addition, Stage maintains a vital educational outreach program that annually serves over 30,000 students from 24 counties. A solid core of subscribers and supporters helps keep Stage a vibrant artistic presence in Central New York.Additional support from government, foundations, corporations and Syracuse University helps to ensure the continued role of Stage as a valued cultural resource for the community. More information can be found on their website: https://www.syracusestage.org/ .MISSION, VISION & VALUESSyracuse Stage is a deeply values-rooted organization with a priority on “people first.” There is immense commitment to the community and to education.Mission:Syracuse Stage tells stories that engage, entertain, and inspire us to seelife beyond our own experience.Vision:Reimagining what’s possible for regional theatre–through active inclusion,innovative outreach, and bold productions–Syracuse Stage shapes the culturaland social vitality of Central New York, enriches the Syracuse Universitystudent experience, and fosters change in ourselves, our communities, and our\world.Core Values:PEOPLEActively including diverse individuals, communities, ideas and perspectives.PASSIONCommitment to integrity, excellence and enthusiasm in our work.CURIOSITYFostering an innovative and adaptive environment that elicits wonder.Stage’s Anti-Racism Action Plan may be found here .LEADERSHIPRobert M. Hupp, Artistic DirectorRobert Hupp joined Stage in 2016 as its fifth Artistic Director. He previously served as Producing Artistic Director of Arkansas Repertory Theatre (Little Rock) and as Artistic Director of Jean Cocteau Repertory. He has held faculty positions at Dickinson College and the University of Arkansas as well as serving as Vice President on the Board of Theatre Communications Group. A full bio may be found here .Board of TrusteesSyracuse Stage is governed by a Board of 40 individuals, including educators, volunteers, and business and community leaders. There is an Executive Committee of 11 trustees. Seven trustees are faculty and staff members, appointed by the Chancellor of Syracuse University. The Board Chair is Richard Driscoll, Senior Vice President of NBT Bank, and the Board President is Herman Frazier, Senior Deputy Athletics Director of Syracuse University.CURRENT ENVIRONMENTStage’s location on the northern edge of campus perfectly positions it to connect the University to the broader Syracuse community via the performing arts and performing arts education. Its facilities are shared with the Department of Drama. Mainstage productions occur primarily in the Archbold Theatre, a 499-seat proscenium.Stage production and technical personnel build most productions in onsite scenic, prop, and costume shops (scenic painting occurs in a separate location nearby). These individuals also support productions of the Department of Drama. There are ten artist housing units a short walk from Stage.The 2024-25 season is composed of seven productions (including one co-production with the Department of Drama). The project 2024-25 budget is $8.6 million (up from a 2023-24 budget of $8 million). In 2023-24, approximately 29% of income came from contributed and in-kind sources, 38% from earned income, and 33% from the University. Additionally, approximately four Stage staff positions are considered University employees and paid through the University (though charged to Stage).There are 31 full-time staff positions and up to 170 part-time, seasonal and contract positions. Stage operates on LORT C1 AEA, SDC and USA contracts.Stage has robust education and community engagement programs, including the following:Theatre for the Very Young (ages five and under), touring to preschools and daycare facilities;An annual Children’s Tour (grades K-5) across four counties (in association with the Department of Drama);Backstory (grades 6-8), a solo performer tour across three counties;Young Playwrights Festival (grades 9-12), an annual ten-minute play festival (in association with the Department of Drama);Young Adult Council (grades 9-12), a monthly workshop;Sensory Friendly Performances;Community Partnerships with multiple organizations in Syracuse.ABOUT SYRACUSESyracuse is the 5th largest city in New York State, with a population of approximately 650,000 in the metropolitan area. The surrounding region has beautiful towns and is known for lakes, apple picking, and snow sports. The area also has the benefit of being affordable relative to many other major urban centers; Syracuse’s average cost of living is approximately 36% lower than in Brooklyn, NY. The city has an international airport and is within driving distance of Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, Toronto, Lake Ontario and other major cities. Winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing are popular, with Labrador Mountain and other resorts nearby. Along with Syracuse University, the area is home to the Everson Museum of Art and two SUNY schools. Syracuse is anticipating major changes in the coming years, with semiconductor manufacturer Micron Technologies investing $100 billion
to build a campus in Syracuse’s northern suburbs. In addition, at present, Interstate 81 runs through the center of Syracuse, separating Syracuse Stage from nearby downtown; however, by 2028, that interstate will be replaced by neighborhoods and an urban boulevard. https://www.visitsyracuse.com/
; Data USA: Syracuse .OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGESIn many ways, Syracuse Stage is in a good position relative to its peers. It has a strong artistic reputation and niche in the region and a dedicated, experienced team. Here are some key areas to note:Stage currently has a mutually beneficial relationship with Syracuse University, with financial support, and systems for communication and collaboration in place. That said, the relationship does involve collaborative expectations for Stage in areas like facility improvement, public messaging and fundraising.Within the next few years, turnover will occur in key roles at Syracuse University, so the relationship between Stage and the University is likely to require especially thoughtful stewardship.Stage has financial reserves in place and benefits from a healthy recent track record of coproductions and commercial enhancement. However, the organization is anticipating a planned deficit in FY25 and has work to do to rebuild true financial sustainability in a post-pandemic environment.The staff/board dynamic is healthy, and Stage has many supporters who have been involved for years. Growth potential remains in developing the patron experience and growing Stage’s fundraising, as the theater builds its visibility and impact in the region.By all accounts, Stage has a truly people-centered culture. In support of that culture, work has begun to develop more robust HR systems, and the new Managing Director will need to continue that work.The Syracuse region is anticipating significant growth and transformation in coming years (see “About Syracuse”), and the Managing Director will need to play an important role in ensuring that Stage can benefit from and contribute to these changes in the community.PRIORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe Managing Director reports directly to the Syracuse Stage Board and co-leads the organization with the Artistic Director. The key priorities of the position include the following:Co-lead Syracuse Stage, collaborating with the Artistic Director to develop organizational vision and strategies, ensuring that the Stage mission, goals and objectives are rigorously pursued.Serve as part of the Stage/University leadership team. The new Managing Director will have the opportunity and option to teach in the VPA College, although this is not a requirement of the position.Develop a highly collaborative relationship with the Artistic Director and Board.In concert with the highly experienced General Manager, oversee day-to-day administrative operations and the organizational budget, including all fiscal planning and management.Oversee the pursuit and growth of earned revenue, through ticket sales, education and other initiatives, and through improvement of the patron experience.Build contributed revenue and serve as an ambassador for Syracuse Stage in the region, building and sustaining relationships with existing and new Stage Board Members, stakeholders, funders, government representatives, partners, and audiences.Co-lead, inspire, manage and develop the Syracuse Stage staff, nurturing a workplace that is people-centered and inclusive.Become a community leader in Syracuse, supporting Stage education, community engagement and other public-facing initiatives and ensuring that the organization is a strong contributor to the wider community.QUALIFICATIONSWhile no single individual will likely possess all of these qualifications, the Search Committee will make their evaluation on the following criteria:The ability to share leadership and develop a collaborative and thriving partnership with the Stage Artistic Director.People-centered leadership style, commitment to EDIA values, and the ability to create a humane, inclusive work environment.Proven track record in maintaining and growing earned and contributed revenue streams.A background in financial management and developing sustainable nonprofit business models.The ability to think strategically, develop vision and long-term plans with the Stage team and board and see those plans through to fruition.Experience managing day-to-day operations with preferred experience overseeing a venue.Compelling skills as a communicator, both written and spoken, and the ability to develop relationships and inspire both new and existing Stage stakeholders.The ability to steward major Stage partnerships with focus, flexibility, and patience.Interest in becoming a community leader in Syracuse and the Northeastern arts field.Experience in the nonprofit arts sector is not required but is certainly a benefit.Likewise, experience in university settings or in academic partnerships is not required but could be helpful.COMPENSATION AND START DATEThe annual salary range for the Managing Director role at Syracuse Stage starts at $165,000 and includes a full benefits package commensurate with other organizations of its size, including:Medical/dental/vision insurance plans;Life Insurance, AD&D Coverage and long-term disability coverage;403(b) plan;Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and personal days.Emily Knapp
and David Mallette
are the consultants from Management Consultants for the Arts leading this important search. To be considered for this position, you must submit pertinent information including name, contact information, and salary requirement and attach a current résumé, a cover letter (no more than 1½ pages describing why this post and organization is attractive to you and what about you and your work makes you a potentially strong contributor to Syracuse Stage), and four professional references (name, work relationship, email, phone) using the online application system. Once all materials have been submitted online, the applicant will receive a confirmation of their submission via the email address provided in the application. For clarification on any of this information, please contact Christy Wall at cwall@mcaonline.com .
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to build a campus in Syracuse’s northern suburbs. In addition, at present, Interstate 81 runs through the center of Syracuse, separating Syracuse Stage from nearby downtown; however, by 2028, that interstate will be replaced by neighborhoods and an urban boulevard. https://www.visitsyracuse.com/
; Data USA: Syracuse .OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGESIn many ways, Syracuse Stage is in a good position relative to its peers. It has a strong artistic reputation and niche in the region and a dedicated, experienced team. Here are some key areas to note:Stage currently has a mutually beneficial relationship with Syracuse University, with financial support, and systems for communication and collaboration in place. That said, the relationship does involve collaborative expectations for Stage in areas like facility improvement, public messaging and fundraising.Within the next few years, turnover will occur in key roles at Syracuse University, so the relationship between Stage and the University is likely to require especially thoughtful stewardship.Stage has financial reserves in place and benefits from a healthy recent track record of coproductions and commercial enhancement. However, the organization is anticipating a planned deficit in FY25 and has work to do to rebuild true financial sustainability in a post-pandemic environment.The staff/board dynamic is healthy, and Stage has many supporters who have been involved for years. Growth potential remains in developing the patron experience and growing Stage’s fundraising, as the theater builds its visibility and impact in the region.By all accounts, Stage has a truly people-centered culture. In support of that culture, work has begun to develop more robust HR systems, and the new Managing Director will need to continue that work.The Syracuse region is anticipating significant growth and transformation in coming years (see “About Syracuse”), and the Managing Director will need to play an important role in ensuring that Stage can benefit from and contribute to these changes in the community.PRIORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe Managing Director reports directly to the Syracuse Stage Board and co-leads the organization with the Artistic Director. The key priorities of the position include the following:Co-lead Syracuse Stage, collaborating with the Artistic Director to develop organizational vision and strategies, ensuring that the Stage mission, goals and objectives are rigorously pursued.Serve as part of the Stage/University leadership team. The new Managing Director will have the opportunity and option to teach in the VPA College, although this is not a requirement of the position.Develop a highly collaborative relationship with the Artistic Director and Board.In concert with the highly experienced General Manager, oversee day-to-day administrative operations and the organizational budget, including all fiscal planning and management.Oversee the pursuit and growth of earned revenue, through ticket sales, education and other initiatives, and through improvement of the patron experience.Build contributed revenue and serve as an ambassador for Syracuse Stage in the region, building and sustaining relationships with existing and new Stage Board Members, stakeholders, funders, government representatives, partners, and audiences.Co-lead, inspire, manage and develop the Syracuse Stage staff, nurturing a workplace that is people-centered and inclusive.Become a community leader in Syracuse, supporting Stage education, community engagement and other public-facing initiatives and ensuring that the organization is a strong contributor to the wider community.QUALIFICATIONSWhile no single individual will likely possess all of these qualifications, the Search Committee will make their evaluation on the following criteria:The ability to share leadership and develop a collaborative and thriving partnership with the Stage Artistic Director.People-centered leadership style, commitment to EDIA values, and the ability to create a humane, inclusive work environment.Proven track record in maintaining and growing earned and contributed revenue streams.A background in financial management and developing sustainable nonprofit business models.The ability to think strategically, develop vision and long-term plans with the Stage team and board and see those plans through to fruition.Experience managing day-to-day operations with preferred experience overseeing a venue.Compelling skills as a communicator, both written and spoken, and the ability to develop relationships and inspire both new and existing Stage stakeholders.The ability to steward major Stage partnerships with focus, flexibility, and patience.Interest in becoming a community leader in Syracuse and the Northeastern arts field.Experience in the nonprofit arts sector is not required but is certainly a benefit.Likewise, experience in university settings or in academic partnerships is not required but could be helpful.COMPENSATION AND START DATEThe annual salary range for the Managing Director role at Syracuse Stage starts at $165,000 and includes a full benefits package commensurate with other organizations of its size, including:Medical/dental/vision insurance plans;Life Insurance, AD&D Coverage and long-term disability coverage;403(b) plan;Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and personal days.Emily Knapp
and David Mallette
are the consultants from Management Consultants for the Arts leading this important search. To be considered for this position, you must submit pertinent information including name, contact information, and salary requirement and attach a current résumé, a cover letter (no more than 1½ pages describing why this post and organization is attractive to you and what about you and your work makes you a potentially strong contributor to Syracuse Stage), and four professional references (name, work relationship, email, phone) using the online application system. Once all materials have been submitted online, the applicant will receive a confirmation of their submission via the email address provided in the application. For clarification on any of this information, please contact Christy Wall at cwall@mcaonline.com .
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