Executive Director

Who We Are

SF Camerawork (SFC) is a long-standing leader in the San Francisco and global photographic arts communities. Founded in 1974 by a collective of artists, the organization began as a forum to promote photography as an art form and as a place for photographers and community members to meet and critically engage with the photographic medium. We welcome experimental photography and foster a wide range of alternative styles and approaches that support culturally diverse photographers working with unconventional techniques and sociopolitical themes, as well as conceptual photography, performance, video, and other forms.

Throughout its history, SFC has provided integral leadership to the local and global photography communities it serves through its exhibitions, programs, and publications. We place a high value on collaboration and community building and promote an inclusive, equitable, and expansive vision of photography by engaging both artists and audiences with programs, opportunities, and education.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will serve as a visionary leader for SF Camerawork, reporting to the Executive Committee of the Board, and responsible for guiding the organization’s growth, ensuring financial sustainability, and advancing its mission. The ED will serve as SFC’s primary fundraiser and public representative, working in partnership with the Board to achieve its strategic goals. A dynamic leader with strong business acumen, a passion for photography, and proven experience in arts management and advocacy, the Executive Director takes a strategic, forward-looking approach that balances growth with long-term sustainability. By anticipating, identifying, and addressing challenges and opportunities, the ED will guide SFC into its next phase. They will foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and accountability, advancing our mission to provoke discovery, experimentation, and exchange through exhibitions and experiences that inspire all who value new ideas in photography.

Responsibilities

Fundraising & Development

• Serve as SF Camerawork’s chief fundraiser and ambassador, developing and executing a multi-year fundraising strategy with clear annual targets for revenue growth, donor retention, and grant success.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors, sponsors, and institutional funders. Develop compelling proposals, impact reports, and partnership materials.
• Research grant opportunities, write proposals, and submit timely reports—collaborating as needed with freelance or volunteer grant writers.
• Lead the planning and execution of fundraising events including the Annual Benefit Auction, membership drives, and new donor engagement initiatives.
• Strengthen and diversify revenue streams through programs such as workshops, gallery rentals, and sponsorships.
• Maintain accurate fundraising metrics and CRM data; ensure prompt acknowledgment and compliance with donor requirements.

External Engagement & Partnerships

• Serve as SF Camerawork’s public face and spokesperson, communicating the mission and impact to artists, patrons, media, funders, and the broader community.
• Expand SFC’s visibility by leveraging existing relationships and forging new strategic partnerships with donors and corporate partners.
• Lead marketing, communications, and branding initiatives.
• Build partnerships with cultural institutions, foundations, universities, and community organizations to amplify SFC’s reach and resources.
• Represent SF Camerawork at key events and conferences; maintain active relationships with civic and cultural leaders.

Board Engagement

• Partner with the Board President and Executive Committee to implement strategic goals, policies, and governance best practices.
• Provide transparent, timely communication regarding organizational health, financial performance, and strategic initiatives.
• Prepare and present reports, budgets, and analyses to support informed Board decision-making.

Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including finance, programming, facilities, systems, and human resources.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget in partnership with the Finance Committee; ensure accurate forecasting, reporting, and compliance with nonprofit standards.
• Supervise staff, contractors, and vendors; promote a collaborative, inclusive workplace that values professional development and accountability.
• Maintain organizational filings, insurance, and compliance with city, state, and federal regulations.
• Ensure that technology and facilities (including the gallery and rental spaces), operate efficiently and safely.
• Manage financial records, payroll, and fiscal reporting in partnership with the bookkeeper and Treasurer.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and at least five years of senior leadership experience, preferably within arts, photography, or cultural organizations.
• Proven track record of fundraising success, including major gifts, endowments, grants, or sponsorships.
• Strong financial and operational management skills with demonstrated budget oversight.
• Deep appreciation for contemporary photography and visual arts, with the ability to articulate SF Camerawork’s artistic vision to diverse audiences.
• Outstanding written, verbal, and public-speaking abilities.
• Collaborative leadership style with high emotional intelligence.
• Proficiency with communications and project management tools (e.g., Zoho, QuickBooks, Google Workspace, and related platforms).

Compensation & Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in San Francisco (Tuesday–Saturday schedule), with flexibility for programs, committee meetings, and events.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SF Camerawork is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all candidates without regard to race, color, religion, age, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, veteran or military status, disability (physical or mental), genetic information or other protected characteristic. We prohibit discrimination of any kind and operate in compliance with applicable fair chance law.

SF Camerawork offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental coverage, paid sick leave, a retirement savings plan, paid time off (PTO), and ten paid holidays in addition to a year-end closure from December 24 through 31.