Managing Director, Operations & Advancement
Description:
Key Areas of Focus for the Managing Director, Operations & Advancement (MD)
Given the momentum of this moment at WTF, the following areas of focus will be at the forefront of the work the Managing Director will embark on:
- Advancing change by galvanizing a variety of constituents. This MD will enter a community eager and poised for change. With a deeply committed board, staff, alumni network, and community of patrons, the Festival will need this leader to appreciate various points of view and inspire each circle to take steps forward into a new chapter for the organization.
- Translating vision and strategy into an organizational action plan. With an understanding and embrace of strategic risk-taking and entrepreneurial ventures, the MD will be both an optimist and realist as they transform visionary ideas into tactical steps.
- Building a vibrant festival destination in Williamstown. With the goal of augmenting the traditional theater-going experience with additional events and immersive experiences, the entire WTF team will be trying out new ideas, engaging artists differently, and experimenting with platforms to build an intensified festival atmosphere in the years to come. The MD will draw on their own artistic management, event, or producing experience to bolster these efforts.
- Stewarding the needs and goals of the anti-oppression and anti-bias work to which the organization is thoroughly committed. While the Festival is well underway in its process to build a culture of anti-racism and anti-oppression within its operations and community, the MD will play a leading role in continuing that work, along with the Board and their co-Managing Director. As a team, they will ensure that as the organization evolves, the commitment to care of team members, the surrounding land, and the Williamstown community is a standard operating principle.
- Champion of relationship building. This is a moment for the Festival to activate new partnerships, strengthen internal and external relationships, and foster greater trust within the larger theatrical and cultural field. This new MD will have a unique opportunity, given the tremendous history of WTF, to leverage greater support and create a welcoming atmosphere for a new generation of creators and arts enthusiasts.
- Cultivating a sustainable work environment through clear communication and calm solution-oriented processes. As chief administrator of the organization, this MD will oversee each area of the organization’s work in a slightly different way, but will be called upon to set clear goals and provide accountability, with a sure-footed approach to leadership in a fast-paced festival environment.
Job Description
Position Summary
The Managing Director, Operations & Advancement is responsible for the overall business, administrative, and operational management of the organization in Williamstown, MA, and in the additional team office in New York City. The position will require substantial work in Williamstown throughout the year; therefore, WTF is prioritizing candidates who are prepared to reside in the Williamstown area (see the compensation section below regarding housing). That said, employees residing in other areas of the northeast are welcome to apply, provided they are prepared to travel frequently to Williamstown. Additional travel will be expected periodically.
The role includes leadership and oversight in the areas of festival operations (including production), fundraising and board relations, budgeting and financial management, HR, and hiring of key senior staff. Along with the Managing Director, Strategy & Transformation, this individual will manage external partnerships, artist engagement, and strategic planning to deliver the organization into its next chapter of achievement.