Executive Director of the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University - Richmond, VA

Full-time - Executive

Richmond, VA

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Executive Director of the Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the ICA, shaping its role as a premier arts institution within the highly regarded School of the Arts (VCUarts). This position is pivotal in articulating a dynamic and inclusive institutional vision that motivates staff and engages community members. The Executive Director will work closely with the Dean of VCUarts and other faculty to develop and implement a robust programmatic vision that reflects a commitment to excellence in contemporary art and accessibility for diverse audiences. The ICA, which opened in 2018, is known for its responsive exhibitions and performances that invite audience engagement and challenge traditional perceptions of art. The Executive Director will also support the curatorial staff in planning and executing high-quality exhibitions and public programming, while fostering relationships across the university and the broader arts community. In addition to overseeing the ICA's programming, the Executive Director will be responsible for creating a sustainable financial model, managing the ICA's fiscal affairs, and developing fundraising strategies to ensure financial sustainability. This role requires a deep understanding of contemporary art, senior-level administrative experience in an arts organization, and a proven track record in fundraising and community engagement. The Executive Director will also be expected to inspire and develop ICA staff and volunteers, cultivate an inclusive environment, and engage in philanthropic outreach efforts. The position reports directly to the Dean of VCUarts and has a secondary reporting relationship to the University Provost, with the potential for a faculty appointment depending on qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide creative vision and strategic direction for the ICA.
• Articulate a dynamic and inclusive institutional vision and shape programming that motivates staff and engages community members.
• Support the curatorial staff in planning and executing an ambitious exhibition and public programming schedule.
• Collaborate with VCUarts dean, department chairs, and faculty to maximize opportunities for mutual support and integration between VCUarts and the ICA.
• Identify avenues for introducing contemporary art to the broadest audience possible and position the ICA as a convener and catalyst in the cultural arena.
• Forge strong and sustainable working relationships within VCUarts and VCU.
• Develop and engage with existing support entities such as the ICA Advisory Board and Development Committee.
• Engage in philanthropic outreach and public service efforts for the ICA.
• Create a sustainable financial model and manage the ICA's fiscal affairs.
• Work closely with communications and development staff to grow the ICA's reach and develop financial and fundraising plans.
• Inspire, motivate, and develop ICA staff and volunteers.
• Develop initiatives that reflect a commitment to community engagement, social justice, and education.
• Cultivate and sustain an inclusive, diverse, welcoming, and accessible environment for all.

Requirements

• A master's or doctoral degree in an appropriate discipline.
• Senior-level administrative experience in an arts organization known for quality and excellence.
• Knowledge of the international art world and its key players.
• Ability to develop, articulate, and implement a shared strategic vision and plan.
• Proven experience in administration, infrastructure development, and budget and facilities management.
• Ability to guide and empower a dynamic and creative team.
• Direct experience planning and implementing innovative and experimental programming.
• Ability to build and nurture relationships with a wide range of individuals from artists to academics to collectors to business and civic leaders.
• A record of fundraising success and the ability to serve as the chief fundraiser for the ICA.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Demonstrated evidence of fostering a welcoming and productive environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

Nice-to-haves

• Professional experience in an academic environment.
• Knowledge of American Alliance of Museums standards and practices.
• Conversant in the use of technology and digital media in promoting an institution.

Benefits

• Salary commensurate with relevant experience.
• Potential for a term (non-tenure eligible) faculty appointment depending on qualifications and experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and community engagement.