Executive Director

Newark School of the Arts

Since 1968, Newark School of the Arts (NSA) has transformed lives by providing high-quality, sequential arts education in the performing and visual arts to students of all ages and abilities. We are committed to accessibility, excellence, and community engagement, ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent participation.

Each week, NSA serves more than 1,300 students, spanning over 10 counties in New Jersey and parts of New York, with approximately 60% of students residing in Newark. To date, we have impacted over 50,000 individuals. Our diverse and inclusive environment nurtures creativity and fosters a lifelong appreciation of the arts.

Position Overview

NSA seeks a visionary and community-driven Executive Director to lead the organization’s strategic growth, operational excellence, and community impact. The Executive partnerships and responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives, ensuring financial sustainability, strengthening partnerships, and advancing NSA’s mission. This role requires a leader with deep ties to Newark, NJ, a commitment to diversity, and the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with stakeholders, donors, and the broader arts and education community.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance:

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term strategic plans.
• Ensure alignment between NSA’s mission and operational strategies.
• Promote a culture of transparency, inclusivity, and innovation.

Fundraising & Financial Management:

• Lead fundraising initiatives, including donor cultivation, grant writing, and corporate partnerships.
• Develop and manage NSA’s budget to ensure financial sustainability and growth.
• Identify and pursue new revenue streams to support NSA’s programs.
• Maintain the affordability and accessibility under which the school was founded

Community Engagement & External Relations:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson, fostering strong relationships with local government, community organizations, donors, and the arts education sector.
• Expand NSA’s presence in Newark through strategic partnerships and community engagement.
• Actively participate in local events and advocacy efforts to enhance NSA’s impact.

Operational & Staff Leadership:

• Provide oversight and mentorship to a team of 12+ talented staff members.
• Foster an inclusive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Ensure that NSA’s programs and operations align with industry best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Arts Administration (MA or MFA), or commensurate experience (strong preference for arts-related experience)
• Minimum of 7 years of proven senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, arts administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and securing institutional funding.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Ties to Newark, NJ, with a passion for serving the local community.
• Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Proven track record in community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and strategic partnership building.
• Flexibility to attend community events and engagements beyond traditional business hours.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership and program development.

Application Instructions

To Apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to roger_soares@icloud.com with the subject line “Executive Director Application – [insert your name]”. Ensure all documents are in [PDF format]. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.