Executive Director

Position Overview

The Talent Machine Company is hiring its first-ever Executive Director – a milestone that reflects nearly 40 years of growth, community impact, and organizational readiness. This is a rare opportunity to shape the next chapter of a beloved youth theater organization with deep roots in Anne Arundel County.

The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the organization’s chief executive, working in close partnership with a deeply committed Board of Directors. This role is ideal for a builder – someone energized by the opportunity to establish systems, cultivate donors, and create sustainable infrastructure while honoring the volunteer spirit and family-centered culture that has defined Talent Machine for decades.

A central priority of this role is fundraising and development – building sustainable revenue streams through individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government support. The ED will also oversee day-to-day operations, support Board governance, and serve as a visible ambassador for the organization in the community. The position reports to the Executive Committee of the Board.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Provide dynamic leadership to advance the organization’s mission, vision, and values
• Oversee day-to-day administrative operations and work with the Board of Directors to implement strategic and annual operating plans
• Ensure legal, financial, and ethical integrity and accountability, including maintaining organizational records, legal compliance, tax filings, and adherence to the Document Retention Policy

Fundraising & Development

• Lead all fundraising efforts, including annual campaigns, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, special events, and planned giving
• Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and community partners, ensuring meaningful recognition and engagement
• Develop and implement strategies to expand and diversify revenue streams

Financial Management

• Support the Finance Committee’s work in developing and monitoring annual budget
• Ensure strong financial controls and compliance with nonprofit financial practices

Board Relations & Governance

• Serve as primary liaison between the Board and day-to-day operations, attending all Board and Executive Committee meetings
• Support Board recruitment, training, and engagement; provide timely and transparent communication to support informed governance

Community & Artistic Engagement

• Represent the organization in the community, building partnerships with schools, government leaders, civic organizations, and arts institutions
• Serve as a visible ambassador for the theater, strengthening its reputation and impact

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in nonprofit management, arts administration, or related field preferred
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressively responsible nonprofit leadership experience, ideally in a performing arts organization
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and development, including major gifts, grants, and sponsorships
• Strong financial management skills with experience in budget oversight
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with Board members, donors, volunteers and community stakeholders
• Passion for theater, youth development, and advancing the role of the arts in community life
• Comfort working in a “startup” environment – building systems, establishing processes, and wearing multiple hats as the organization’s first professional staff member

Compensation

Compensation will be based on level of experience, with an anticipated annual salary range of $68,000-$75,000.

English proficiency required.