Manager, Grant Programs

ArtsWave supports 150+ organizations, artists and projects through funding, services, and advocacy. These organizations and individuals go on to create thousands of concerts, shows, exhibitions, arts education programming, public art, events like BLINK® and others, fueling a more vibrant regional economy and connected community for everyone.

We are looking for candidates who want to work in a fun, fast-paced, dynamic nonprofit organization that is committed to drive a more vibrant economy and connected community through the power of the arts.

To be successful in this role, you will be a skilled administrator with strong organizational abilities and knowledgeable about Greater Cincinnati’s arts community. This position serves as a key liaison between the organization and the arts community, as well as with volunteer panelists involved in the grantmaking processes.

The essential functions of this role are:

• Coordinates strategies for the effective administration of grants programs, aligning with the mission and objectives of the organization
  • Coordinates various aspects of the grantmaking process, including application review, evaluation, award decisions, and reporting requirements
  • Collaborates with internal teams to develop grant guidelines, criteria, and program priorities that reflect the evolving needs of the arts community
  • Monitors and tracks the impact of grants programs, collecting data and feedback to inform programmatic improvements and strategic decision-making
• Along with the VP, Community Investments, serves as a point of contact and liaison with the arts sector potential and current grantees, fostering positive relationships with grant applicants, grantees, and community partners
  • Coordinates the selection and engagement of volunteer panelists and policy experts to participate in the grant review process, ensuring diverse perspectives and expertise are represented
  • Provides guidance and support to grant applicants throughout the application process, offering technical assistance and resources as needed
• Working with the Director, Northern Kentucky Creative Placemaking, support creative placemaking initiatives, such as grants, artist-in-residence, and other community events and gatherings
• Contribute to planning and executing sector-wide and community learning opportunities such as networking lunches for arts sector colleagues, roundtables, town halls and Boardway Bound board leadership program
• Stays informed about trends, best practices, and policy developments in arts funding and grantmaking, and brings relevant insights into the organization's programs and initiatives to the team
• May prepare reports, presentations, or other materials to communicate the outcomes and impact of grants programs to internal and external stakeholders

The skills and experience required for this role include:

• Strong understanding of the arts ecosystem, including knowledge of arts organizations, cultural institutions, and funding landscape
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent organizational skills, proven project management, and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and reasonably adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Ability to listen to and appropriately respond to feedback with a commitment to continuous improvement
• High level of integrity, discretion, and a passion for the organization’s mission and vision
• Demonstrated ability to act tactically, analyze data, and make data-driven decisions to inform programmatic improvements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and grant management software
• Passion for the arts and a commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where all individuals can access and engage with our organization's programs and services
• Bachelor's degree in arts administration, nonprofit management, or a related field or commensurate hands-on experience
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in grantmaking, fundraising, or program management, with a focus on the arts sector

ArtsWave values both formal education and hands-on experience and skills. We understand that formal education offers a foundational knowledge base and theoretical understanding, while experience brings this knowledge to life. Skills and competencies gained through direct experience can significantly complement and, in some cases, surpass academic credentials. Therefore, we list educational thresholds and years of experience, while making demonstrated ability and proficiency in acquiring new skills our primary focus.

This is a full-time, exempt position that reports to the VP, Community Investments. ArtsWave has a hybrid policy in place with a work schedule that will normally be Monday through Friday and includes occasional weekend or evening events/meetings. Per the hybrid policy, employees are eligible for remote work after successful completion of their first 90 days. This role requires occasional travel to other locations and attendance at meetings and events.

ArtsWave offers competitive compensation and benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 7% employer match, paid time off, and paid parking.