Executive Director

Steven Myron Holl Foundation

The Steven Myron Holl Foundation is seeking an executive director to join its team in New York, USA.

The role will assume primary responsibility for the management of all operations for this small and ambitious non-profit arts and architecture organization.

About the Steven Myron Holl Foundation

SMHF’s mission is to inform the public about urgent issues concerning art and architecture, to stimulate a critical and theoretical exchange of ideas in the context of today’s cultural, political, economic and technological conditions, and to educate and entice new ways of thinking about the arts, design and ecology.

Founded by internationally acclaimed architect Steven Holl, SMHF’s programmes are uniquely situated at the intersection of the arts, design, sustainability and ecology.

Through its annual Synthesis of the Arts Exhibition Series, education initiatives, publication programme and digital platforms, SMHF inspires cross-pollination of the arts to promote and amplify interdisciplinary thinking. Since 2010, SMHF has exhibited diverse emerging and established artists – poetry readings, music and publications accompany each exhibition in the annual series.

The SMHF campus is located on a 30-acre nature reserve comprising the Architecture Archive + Research Library – one of the largest public architecture libraries in the Northeast – the ‘T’ Space and Archive galleries, the Ex of In House and a sculpture trail. SMHF provides architecture residencies, community education to underserved communities and ecological initiatives.

SMHF is committed to maintaining an equitable, healthy work environment and upholds a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, colour, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, physical ability or disability.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a passionate and visionary executive director to lead SMHF into its next phase of growth and impact. The executive director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight and fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity and innovation within the organisation.

This individual will serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for SMHF, representing our mission and values to the broader community, including existing and potential donors. This role is very hands-on and the candidate must be able and willing to contribute in every capacity, from micro daily details to macro big picture thinking.

The executive director will implement the mission and vision of SMHF as approved by the board of directors in regard to all programming, financial goals, personnel management and the execution of daily activities of the foundation.

Primary responsibilities include:

  • strategic planning for the future fundraising, development, grants and all financial management

  • organize, manage and lead quarterly reviews with the board of directors and advisors, while collaborating effectively with them

  • management of exhibitions, including installations, of (annually) two to three exhibitions of contemporary art/architecture with complementary poetry readings and music performances and various educational and ecological initiatives

  • management of staff for galleries, events, tours and other programs

  • oversight of all facilities on our woodland campus in Rhinebeck, NY including the Architectural Archive and Research Library and two gallery spaces

  • community education and local engagement

Requirements

Potential candidates should have substantial experience in arts non-profit leadership – ideal candidates will demonstrate the following:

  • a history of improving financial growth, including significant development/fundraising/grants achievements and experience

  • a demonstrable track record of successful strategic planning, financial management and programme development

  • strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate

  • excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse groups

  • proven ability to cultivate relationships with donors and funding agencies, to secure financial support for organizational initiatives

  • significant managerial experience and expertise in contemporary art/architecture

  • knowledge of implementing and utilizing donor management platforms

How to Apply

This position is full-time based in Rhinebeck, NY.

Yearly salary $85,000, commensurate with experience.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, a list and contact info of three professional references and (optional) relevant support material via the apply for job button below.

Please address the application to Susan Wides, curator and director, with “Executive Director” in the subject line.

Contact
Posted on November 15