Executive Director Opportunity
The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County was established in 2008 as a not-for-profit regional agency for serving arts and cultural organizations, artists and creative businesses. The mission of the organization is to provide unified marketing, capacity building, professional development services, and advocacy for the arts and culture sector. The Cultural Alliance serves as a key vehicle for coordination, collaboration and knowledge sharing for its members and the broader arts and cultural community in Fairfield County. The office is centrally located in a historic landmark building in Norwalk, CT, currently supported by the Executive Director, a small part-time staff and the Board of Directors
Summary: Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. Candidates must have a deep-rooted passion for arts and culture and demonstrated visionary leadership. This role is responsible for developing and implementing the organization’s strategic vision in line with its mission and values. Key responsibilities include community relations, fund development, strategic planning, program development based on membership needs, as well as policy, operational, financial, and administrative management.
Essential Skills: The Executive Director should be a strategic thinker and dynamic innovator with excellent interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate should have an understanding of institutional image/brand building, resource development and fundraising, marketing and external relations, with the presence and capacity to effectively advance initiatives in all areas. Comprehensive experience in organizational planning, and administration, a thorough knowledge of fiscal management, exceptional written and verbal communication skills, and strong computer aptitude are essential requirements.
Leadership & Administrative Management
• Identify member needs and create targeted programs. Plan and implement events and programs strategically.
• Ensure all activities align with the Board’s approved strategic plan.
• Maintain the highest quality of operational and professional management of staff and volunteers in areas of program delivery, membership services, development, marketing, and administrative planning and execution.
• Prepare and manage annual operational and program budgets. Monitor and reconcile financial accounts often for accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with state and local regulations, as well as legal requirements.
• Ensure timely IRS filings and maintain current insurance policies.
• Manage office operations including HR, services, payroll, billing and payments, technology and member relations.
• Set and evaluate annual goals using measurable benchmarks and KPIs.
• Keep thorough archives of reports, program evaluations and attendance records and other materials.
Fundraising & Board Relations
• Oversee all fundraising activities for both private and public sectors, including donor cultivation and engagement.
• Provide strategic recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding planning and development matters.
• Organize and contribute to Board meetings.
• Deliver executive director and financial reports at each board meeting.
• Work with the Board Treasurer to draft and submit the annual budget to the board for approval.
Advocacy & Partnering
• Promote an organizational culture that emphasizes collaboration and effective coordination.
• Establish relationships with national, state, regional, and local agencies and organizations.
• Actively participate in member events and professional development opportunities.
Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
Compensation: Competitive salary with paid vacation, holidays, personal and sick days.
The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County is an equal opportunity employer. Interested candidates should submit resume and cover letter to HR@CulturalAllianceFC.org
