We’re Hiring an Executive Director
Executive Director – Job Description
Position Summary
The Executive Director (ED) of LBC serves as a hands-on, operational leader responsible for helping to set organizational priorities and enabling LBC to achieve its short and long-term financial, programmatic, and strategic objectives. Reporting to the board of directors and working in partnership with the Artistic Director, the Executive Director will manage all aspects of administration and ensure the implementation of the artistic and professional vision that is at the heart of LBC’s mission. They will also help guide the next phase of growth and innovation for the organization. Skilled at managing businesses, this individual will help expand revenue and enhance partnerships with local partners and beyond. Advocating for arts education and committed to diversity and equity, the ED will be an engaging speaker and collaborator, as well as a transparent decision maker. The ED will cultivate deep connections with the board, staff members, and community partners.
The Lexington Ballet Company is a 49-year-old regional ballet company/school in downtown Lexington. Annual budget is approximately $500K. School is primarily focused on classical ballet at the higher levels.
Roles and Responsibilities
Organizational Excellence
Grow and oversee the organization’s administrative functions and day-to-day operations while ensuring commitment around key priorities.
Evaluate organizational processes and systems, roles, and responsibilities to improve effectiveness and expand staff capacity when needed.
Lead the finance, fundraising, administration, and communication/marketing efforts.
Supervise the care, maintenance, and quality of the 3500 square foot Lexington Ballet facility.
Oversee the health, safety, and wellbeing of all LBC staff, students, and artists at the LBC facility and all program sites, with a deep level of care, compassion, and authority.
Embrace other opportunities to achieve organizational excellence as needed.
Strategic and Collaborative Leadership
Embody LBC’s mission and guide strategic direction, working collaboratively with the board, Artistic Director, and staff to facilitate the success of the organization and the individuals within it.
Identify, develop, and evaluate new mission-appropriate opportunities.
Develop an open and effective partnership with the Artistic Director and board of directors. Serve as a key advocate for LBC, participating in the cultivation of a broad range of supporters, patrons, and artists.
Advance LBC’s position as a model of excellence in the arts and education fields.
Embrace other strategic and collaborative leadership responsibilities as needed.
Revenue Expansion, Communication, and Community Engagement
Lead efforts and strategies to bring contributed and earned income revenue streams to altogether new heights. Nurture existing relationships and build new ones to expand interest and investment in LBC. Guide efforts to further diversify and achieve sustainability in foundation and individual funding.
Foster collaborative and productive partnerships with LBC’s key stakeholders and staff to support the organization’s mission and increase its public visibility.
Effectively grow fundraising efforts and develop authentic relationships with individuals, foundations, government agencies, and corporations.
Build LBC’s brand awareness and outreach initiatives.
Represent LBC through active participation in local programs and events focused on the arts, creative youth development, and relevant social and community issues including diversity, equity and inclusion.
Embrace other revenue expansion, communication, and community engagement responsibilities as needed.
Governance and Financial Stewardship
Inspire and build the board and its committees, in collaboration with the Board Chair, with a commitment to sustain a shared and deep understanding of LBC’s priorities and processes.
Provide regular communication and strategic updates to the board to enable all members to exercise their full governance and service potential.
Embrace other governance and financial stewardship responsibilities as needed.
Traits and Characteristics
The Executive Director is a dynamic leader who builds authentic relationships and values frequent engagement with a range of stakeholders. Ready to help LBC meet its strategic goals, this individual is versatile and resourceful in addressing challenges and embracing opportunities. The Executive Director is a natural collaborator who values creativity in an altruistic and harmonious environment. They are a diplomatic leader who can negotiate sensitive issues in a transparent way.
Other key competencies include:
Leadership and Teamwork
Diplomacy and Interpersonal Skills
Time and Priority Management
Professional and Personal Accountability
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) and 5 – 7 years of direct experience with responsibility in a management role, including supervision, are required. A genuine, demonstrated commitment to an interest in fundraising is essential. The ideal candidate will have business-oriented experience and a track record of strategic and operational success in highly collaborative and creative environments. Previous experience in the performing arts is helpful, including grant writing. Dedication to the arts and arts education is essential. Experience working directly with boards of directors and exposure to production and event-intensive operations are a plus. Experience working with a broad spectrum of players, from professional dancers to student dancers is helpful. Exceptional writing abilities and verbal presentation skills are expected.
Compensation and Benefits
LBC provides a competitive salary, commensurate with experience. Benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, personal days, holidays and health insurance.
Applications and Inquiries
Submit a cover letter and resume with a summary of demonstrable accomplishments to
Lexington Ballet Company, 161 N. Mill St., Lexington KY 40507.