Executive Director (Full-Time, On-Site)

Arlington Center for the Arts 20 Academy Street Arlington, MA 02476

Date Posted:

May 07, 2026

Region:

Eastern Massachusetts Category:

Executive Type:

Full-Time Executive Director (Full-Time, On-Site)

Description:

ACA seeks an experienced, collaborative, andmunity-minded leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, artists, volunteers, andmunity partners, the Executive Director will guide theanization through a new period of growth as ACA advances its strategic plan and implements aprehensive accessibility plan designed to broaden participation in the arts. The Executive Director provides operational expertise and overall leadership for ACA, ensuring strong programs, financial sustainability, effective operations, and meaningfulmunity engagement. This role will help shape an environment w creativity thrives and w the arts are accessible to a wide and diversemunity. Strategic planning,anizational oversight, fundraising, andmunity relationships will be the cornerstone skills needed to help ACA reach the next stage of growth and stability for its programs and physical space.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership Partner with the Board of Directors to implement ACA's strategic plan and guide long-termanizational priorities. Translate mission and vision into clear goals and initiatives that strengthen arts programming and expand access. Provide strategic guidance on mission-driven growth Monitor trends in the local arts environment Financial Management & Fundraising Initiate and execute budgeting and financial planning processes to ensureanizational sustainability, including buildinganizational capacity Ensure strong financial controls, reporting andpliance with non-profit accounting rules. Lead fundraising efforts, including grants, donor engagement, sponsorship solicitation, and partnerships that support ACA's mission and programs. Lead theanization through a significant period of financial transition, developing and implementing a multi-year revenue growth strategy that substantially expands ACA's base of contributed ie. Programs & Community Engagement Guide the development and evaluation of ACA programs and events. Oversee the planning, logistics, and execution of public events that promote theanization's mission and strengthenmunity relationships. Ensure programs remain weing, accessible, and responsive tomunity interests and needs. Serve as an ambassador for theanization -- building relationships with stakeholders, grantmakers, town agencies, andmunity partners to champion the value of arts as a vital part ofmunity life. Take an active role to ensure the success ofmunity programs, particularly in the 12 weeks of camp programs that serve over 500 families annually. Staff & Organizational Leadership Inspire, mentor, and empower staff in a collaborative, creative, and inclusive culture that models innovation, accountability, and a dmitment to expanding access to the arts. Be a strategic partner to the board Supervise a staff of 5 full-time employees. Oversee HR functions, employee evaluations and professional development. Please note that ACA staff currently supports over 100 part-time staff and contractors throughout the year. Operations Oversee day-to-day operations, including facilities, systems, and administrative and good governance processes.

Qualifications:

Leadership experience in a nonprofit, arts, or culturalanization. Track record of leadinganizations through mission-driven growth Experience working collaboratively with a board of directors. Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and planning. Demonstrated success growing fundraising revenue in response to rising operational costs and expandinganizational capacity. Demonstrated fundraising experience, including grants and donor cultivation. Experience managing teams and fostering a collaborative, flexible workplace culture. Understanding of arts programming andmunity engagement. Strong relationship-building andmunication skills. Commitment to expanding access to the arts and building inclusivemunity. Willingness to work occasional evening and weekend hours as needed. ACA offers apetitive benefits package for full-time employees, including employer-subsidized health and dental insurance, life and long-term disability coverage, and a

SIMPLE IRA

retirement plan with employer contribution. Paid time off includes holidays, earned time off (15-20 days annually based on tenure), and sick leave.