Executive Director

Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association

Executive Director Job Description

Salary Range: $24,000 - $28,000, depending on experience

Hours: Half time, varying schedule averaging 20 hours/wk, occasional evenings/weekends

Job Description

The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association (CGOA) provides exceptional performing arts for the cultural enrichment, education, engagement and enjoyment of diverse audiences and participants. Founded in 2005, the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association (CGOA) provides a variety of performing arts experiences for audiences in rural Columbia River Gorge communities. Core programs include the Gorge Sinfonietta Orchestra, the Voci Community Choir, the Jazz Collective Big Band, and Stages Musical Theater. In all its offerings, CGOA emphasizes artistic growth, high performance standards, and exceptional, innovative programming. World premieres and collaborations with local, regional, and nationally-recognized artists provide vital entertainment and educational opportunities to Gorge residents and visitors alike.

Reporting to the board of directors, the executive director will oversee the strategic and operational efficiency of our programs and staff. The executive director should understand current trends in the performing arts and have proven experience developing and implementing fundraising initiatives. Prior experience managing and hiring staff is essential, and established relationships with local community groups is a plus. Above all, the executive director must be comfortable in a leadership role that demands clear communication and decisiveness.

Goals and Objectives

• Work closely with the board of directors and committees to inform, assess, and address issues that affect the organization.
• Develop an actionable plan for fundraising and managing monthly cash flow.
• Oversee strategic planning, compliance, quality assurance, and program efficiency within CGOA daily operations.
• Manage the employees, contractors, and volunteers that are responsible for CGOA performances and events
• Identify and implement staffing requirements for efficient operations.
• Maintain a positive culture and work climate that attracts and retains staff and drives the CGOA mission.
• Represent the organization and increase awareness by being the spokesperson and liaison with local media.
• Comply with all federal, state, and local legislation.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Create complete business plans for attaining goals and objectives set in collaboration with the board of directors.
• In partnership with the board, set and meet aggressive annual fundraising goals to secure financial support from foundations, corporations, individuals, and government funding sources.
• Act as donor steward by ensuring fundraising reporting requirements are met and that positive communication is maintained with funders.
• Work with staff and board on annual benefit and additional fundraising events.
• Oversee all external communication and promotion, including the website, marketing materials, newsletters and social media content.
• Serve as the face of the organization and actively participate in external events to increase visibility, credibility, and brand in the market, while developing strategic partnerships in order to increase community awareness and expand the program.
• Build and lead an effective team dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission through highly successful program implementation, community engagement, and fundraising targets.
• Manage a culturally diverse staff, clientele and community whose skills, cultures and spoken languages reflect the communities that CGOA serves.

Skills and Qualifications

• Can articulate the importance of fine and performing arts to a small community and patrons
• Strong public relations, marketing, and fundraising experience
• Knowledge of nonprofit leadership and management principles
• Proven success working with a board of directors
• Entrepreneurial mindset with innovative approach to business planning
• Dynamic and charismatic team player who enjoys being the public face of an organization
• Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills
• Experience creating and managing budgets
• Experience with Google Drive, QuickBooks Online, Slack, Arts People or other equivalent CRM.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 3 to 5 years of management experience, preferably with a nonprofit

GENERAL INFORMATION

Working Location

CGOA does not have an office. The Executive Director shall work from home, as well as at CGOA events, and other social and community obligations as required. Equipment will be provided, to include: mobile phone and basic supplies.

Salary and Working Hours

Salary: $24,000 - $28,000 depending on qualifications and experience. References and a background check will be required. The hours worked will vary, depending on work requirements and scheduled events. It is expected that the work will average 20 hours/week over the course of the year. Hourly wage will be $24 - $28/hr assuming two weeks unpaid vacation.

Send resume and cover letter to CGOA Board President, cgoaboardpresident@gmail.com

Position open until filled.