Ridgefield Guild of Artists is a regional and community-based art organization that promotes the visual arts and arts education by providing

• High quality gallery space for exhibition

• Art classes for children and adults

• Opportunities for artist-in residency programs

• Art lectures and community events on-site and in collaboration with other cultural organizations.

Executive Director (part-time)

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief administrative and strategic leader of the Ridgefield Guild of Artists, working in close partnership with the Board of Directors and staff to advance the organization’s mission, programs, and community impact. This is a part-time position ideal for a dynamic, organized, and community-oriented leader with a passion for the arts.

The ED oversees day-to-day operations, fundraising, communications, and program support while ensuring the long-term sustainability and visibility of the Guild.

This position reports to Ridgefield Guild of Artists’ Board of Directors.

The ideal candidate has a deep passion for artists and supporting the arts, possessing a strong background in nonprofit administration. A proven record in fundraising and development is a big plus.

Strong candidates must possess a positive and collaborative organizational culture.  We at the Guild work as a team, no job is too big or too small for any board member and staff. 

The ED will work with the Board of Directors and our three part-time employees:  Office Manager, Education Manager and Assistant Executive Director. The ED will lead all development efforts, fundraising, grant writing, and capital campaigns. The ED will oversee the Guild’s fiscal health through sound budgeting, oversight, and reporting, demonstrating financial fluency and deep knowledge of fiduciary obligations.

The ED will serve as a forward thinker in gallery exhibitions and town collaborations with other non-profits, expanding the Guild’s visibility. The ED will be a leader who represents the Guild to the broader community, 

Key Priorities

• Organizational Leadership & Strategy:  In conjunction with the Board, develop and implement the organization’s strategic plan, vision and annual action plans.
• Operations & Administration: Oversee daily operations of the Guild. Work with Office Manager to ensure compliance with non-profit regulations and policies.  Work with Office Manager to ensure best practices of administrative systems, records and calendar. 
• Program Management: Implement and oversee quality programs and services that are consistent with the Guild’s mission and community objectives, including but not limited to gallery exhibitions, ArtWalk, Festive Home, Satellite Galleries, and art education including summer programs. Develop, with the board, new programs.
• Fiscal Management: In conjunction with the finance committee, develop the annual budget, maintain sound financial practices, and oversee budget and financial reporting to the Board.
• Community Relations & Advocacy: Serve as chief spokesperson for the Guild in the community; promote community support for the organization and develop effective working relationships with the artistic, civic and business communities to promote the arts.
• Marketing: Oversee the Guild’s marketing and publicity of all programs, classes, and events to all constituent groups. Provide supervision for social media, brochures, invitations, signage, and other print materials as required. 
• Membership: Ensure the financial health of the organization is solid through a consistent strong membership base.
• Gallery Exhibitions: Oversee scheduling, marketing and exhibition events to enhance the public profile in support of regional artists and to broaden audience reach.
• Fund Development & Grant Management: Develop and oversee fundraising and grants and monitor progress, and deliver regular presentations to the Board.  Research and secure new funding opportunities.
• External Relations and Engagement: Cultivate and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders, strategic partners, funders, and major donors.

Experience, Attributes, and Qualifications

The ideal candidate brings a combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities for successful performance. Typical qualifications include:

• Three to five years of senior leadership or executive experience in a nonprofit cultural or arts administration (or similar institution), including Board relations, nonprofit governance best practices, and committee engagement.
• Successful experience overseeing and managing the administrative, financial, and operational responsibilities of a nonprofit, or similar organization.
• Extensive fundraising experience, including success with major donors, grants, and sponsorships.
• A warm, diplomatic, and collaborative leadership style.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• The ability to influence key stakeholders, negotiate outcomes, maintain composure under stressful situations, and engage in self-evaluation for professional growth.
• Ability to approach issues and problems with flexibility and unique approaches, openness to different perspectives, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Excellent organization and time management skills, including the ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects and conflicting constraints.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with the Board. 
• Deep passion for the arts and artists and a strong commitment to the Guild’s mission of supporting and promoting artists.

 Terms of Employment & Compensation

• Work Location: Hybrid with ½ time (or as needed) at Ridgefield Guild of Artists, 34 Halpin Lane, Ridgefield, Connecticut
• Job Type: Part-time, 20-25 hours/week Monday to Friday. Some weekends and evenings required as needed for events.
• Annual Part-Time Salary: Compensation commensurate with experience. $32,000-$36,000.

How to Apply

Submit a resume and brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to:

president@ridgefieldguild.org.