PROGRAM DIRECTOR, CONTEMPORARY ARTS & NEW INITIATIVES

The Southern Arts Federation, the regional arts organization for nine southeastern states, seeks a creative, experienced program director with experience in multiple contemporary arts disciplines, and the ability to collaborate with partners inside and outside of the agency. This position has a focus on film/media (including the Southern Circuit and Short Circuit film tours) and contemporary visual arts (SEVAN - the Southeastern Visual Arts Network); the optimal candidate would also have some experience in performing arts and literature. This position also leads the evaluation of new programmatic opportunities in relation to SAF's mission, goals and capacity, in tandem with other staff members, so a broad range of interests and knowledge is desired.  Above all, a commitment to exemplary program design and connection to community is required.

Responsibilities:

• Manage existing programs in media/film and contemporary visual arts. Review, evaluate and provide direction for programs.
• Gather, manage and report on statistical and anecdotal information about the needs of the media, contemporary visual arts, performing and literary fields and develop new programmatic recommendations in accordance with findings.
• Establish and implement long-range plans, goals, objectives and schedules for each contemporary arts program and integrate into agency mission and vision.
• Submit timely and accurate reports, grants and evaluations for Contemporary Arts programs.
• Work with development staff to develop case statements for contemporary arts programs and new opportunities.
• Manage budgets for contemporary arts programs.
• Serve as a national leader in the field of film/media/contemporary arts, assuming positions of national responsibility when possible and appropriate.
• Serve as the agency liaison to the media, visual arts, performing and literary fields and state arts agency coordinators in those disciplines.
• Develop and manage an agency-wide intern program.
• Act as point person for new opportunities until staff team is formed.

Qualifications and Attributes:

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant arts field 
• Minimum of five years experience in program assessment, design, implementation and evaluation, with a demonstrated record of accomplishment and connection to community. 
• Knowledge of and direct experience in the fields of film/media and contemporary visual arts is required; additional experience in performing arts and literature is highly desired.
• Proficiency in oral and written communication skills including public presentation, organizational skills, interpersonal skills, and managerial capability
• An entrepreneurial thinker who can see and seize opportunities, solve problems and approach challenges in a productive way
• Ability to work in a team-based environment as well as work independently

Salary and Benefits:
The salary range for this position is set at $45,000-60,000, with starting salary at the lower end of the range, and with a generous package of benefits including vacation plan, fully paid health and dental insurance, and 403b pension plan with agency match.

Application Process:
Send a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to:  Mollie Lakin-Hayes, Deputy Director, Southern Arts Federation, 1800 Peachtree St, Suite 808, Atlanta, GA 30309 or mlakinhayes@southarts.org by November 2, 2007.
     
Background

The Southern Arts Federation, a non-profit regional arts organization founded in 1975, creates partnerships and collaborations; assists in the development of artists, arts professionals and arts organizations; presents, promotes and produces Southern arts and cultural programming; and advocates for the arts and arts education. The organization works in partnership with the state arts agencies of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. It is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, member states, foundations, businesses and individuals.

Its Mission: The Southern Arts Federation, in partnership with nine state arts agencies, builds on the South's unique heritage, and enhances the public value of the arts in our communities, by:

• Promoting and supporting the arts in the South
• Enhancing the artistic excellence and professionalism of Southern arts organizations and artists
• Serving the diverse population of the South

SAF's annual budget is approximately $2.8M, with a staff of 12 and a small cadre of contractors. The position is housed in its Midtown Atlanta offices.

For more information about SAF, refer to our web site at www.southarts.org