About

Art Center Sarasota  for 100 years has been the center of Sarasota’s visual arts community.  The Center is a member-supported nonprofit 501(c3) organization that engages the entire artistic community by providing educational programs and exhibitions to local and regional artists and those who simply enjoy the visual arts.

The Executive Director will have the opportunity to build upon the Art Center’s 100-year history while bringing the strategic plan to life. At their fingertips will be a community that delights in the visual arts with a strong interest and desire to see the Art Center extend its reach while continuing to be open and accessible to all.

The Center’s exhibitions program show contemporary works in its three curated galleries, designed to inspire and challenge the viewer. The large atrium gallery is dedicated to showcasing the Sarasota and the region’s talented artists in juried competitions and is often used as a collaborative project space.

Our Mission

Art Center Sarasota brings together creatives and the broader public to increase the understanding of our human condition, support well-being, and build community connection through the universal language of art.

Executive Director

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the executive officer of Art Center Sarasota, responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and management of the organization. The Executive Director will be stepping into an exhilarating phase for Art Center Sarasota as the organization prepares to celebrate its centennial. This milestone offers a unique opportunity to lead the Art Center through a transformative period of growth and innovation, advancing its legacy and impact on the community while cultivating donors. The incoming ED will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this esteemed institution, driving strategic initiatives and building a fundraising plan and capital plan that will define its next hundred years. The ED will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community stakeholders to advance the mission of the Art Center, ensuring its sustainability and growth.

Key Responsibilities

1.     Strategic Leadership:

○      Develop and implement the organization’s strategic plan in alignment with its mission and vision.

○      Guide and inspire the staff and Board to achieve strategic goals and objectives.

○      This is a public role that will work closely with members of the Board of Directors, the City of Sarasota, The Bay Conservancy, and other local arts organizations.

○      Foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence within the organization.

2.     Financial Management:

o   Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.

○      Secure funding through grants, sponsorships, and individual donations.

○      Work with Finance Administration, Board Treasurer, and CPA for financial reporting and to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

3.     Program Development and Oversight:

○      Oversee the development and execution of exhibitions, educational programs, and community events.

○      Ensure that programming is diverse, relevant, and aligned with the Art Center’s mission.

○      Evaluate program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvements.

4.     Fundraising and Development:

○      Develop a 3–5-year fundraising and capital plan, along with the tools and resources needed to implement the plan.

○      Lead fundraising efforts to increase revenue and expand the Art Center’s financial base.

○      Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners.

○      Develop and implement strategies for donor engagement and retention.

○      Develop and implement strategic plans to advance major gifts and capital campaigns to support the future of ACS.

5.     Marketing and Public Relations:

○      Develop and execute marketing strategies to enhance the Art Center’s visibility and reputation.

○      Oversee media relations, public communications, and promotional activities.

○      Represent the Art Center at community events, public meetings, and other forums.

6.     Board Relations:

○      Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set and achieve strategic goals.

○      Provide updates to the Board on organizational performance, financial status, and key initiatives.

○      Support Board recruitment, development, and engagement.

7.     Staff and Volunteer Management:

○      Recruit, manage, and mentor a talented team of staff members and volunteers.

○      Foster a positive and productive work environment.

○      Implement professional development opportunities and ensure staff alignment with organizational goals.

Qualifications

●      Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree a plus. .

●      Several years of progressive management experience in a nonprofit arts or cultural organization.

●      3-5 years of experience creating and implementing a fundraising and capital development plan.

●      Demonstrated experience cultivating, soliciting and stewarding donor relationships

●      Experience with donor database systems, prospect research and technology, and an appreciation for leveraging donor data into fundraising dollars.

●      Proven track record in financial management, and strategic planning.

●      Strong understanding of the visual arts community and trends in the arts sector.

●      Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.

●      Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including Board members, staff, artists, donors, city officials, stakeholders and the community.

●      Knowledge of 501(c)3 and non-profit financial and governance structures.

●      Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.