Implementation Project Manager (Systems)

MacDowell, America’s preeminent multidisciplinary artist residency program, seeks an Implementation Project Manager (IPM) for a remote position that will include some travel to New York City and Peterborough, NH. Depending on the candidate and final scope of services, this position could be filled by either a part-time employee with an initial engagement of 1-2 years, or a freelance consultant.

Since its founding in 1907, MacDowell has provided crucial time and space to more than 9,000 artists working across a variety of disciplines. MacDowell Fellowships have supported James Baldwin, Celine Song, Meredith Monk, Isabel Sandoval, Michael Chabon, Bebe Miller, Paula Vogel, Faith Ringgold, and many others in creating their enduring works of the imagination.

As MacDowell launches a multi-year ‘systems modernization’ project, the IPM will support, guide, and advise an in-house team made up of the Executive Director, the Database & Network Administrator, and other key staff, to lead and manage project implementation and execution. This role comes at a critical time for the organization as it enters a stage of renewed growth and revitalization.

The IPM’s work will have several distinct phases, which include:

• Phase 1: Comprehensive review and audit of existing data management, digital communications systems, software, and other processes that underlie the current business operations of the organization.
• Phase 2: Based on the audit results, identify and craft a framework and project implementation plan to unify and streamline MacDowell’s software, tools, systems, and workflows. These recommendations may include software adoption, software upgrades, and/or the implementation of an enterprise CRM, like Salesforce.
• Phase 3: Execute the project plan by supervising implementation across multiple departments, serving as the primary contact for related external vendors, and working with staff leadership to develop training and manuals to ensure user adoption.

The ideal candidate will be an excellent project manager with specific experience in directing data migration, software implementation, and custom CRM project builds. The ability to communicate warmly and effectively with a wide variety of people in distributed team locations is key. This position will report to the NH-based Database & Network Administrator and work closely with the Executive Director and MacDowell’s leadership team.

Project Scope:

• Interview MacDowell staff to draw up a comprehensive overview of existing business process, data management, and communication tools, including strengths and weaknesses
• Deliver a written report and presentation detailing recommendations for software and systems improvements
• Work with staff to identify tools, software, and system vendors as needed
• As work moves into the implementation phase, serve as the project manager interfacing with external vendor(s) and/or additional consultants
• Help develop staff trainings and manuals for updated software and systems

Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated track record of successful systems implementation at a comparable scale within a nonprofit environment
• Experience working with CRM technology and vendors including Salesforce custom builds
• Proficiency with relational database software and a deep understanding of software as a tool to improve business processes and functions
• Keen attention to detail, excellent time management skills, and the ability to meet deadlines
• Experience with change management discourse within an organization and the ability to anticipate and mitigate risk
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently with a wide variety of stakeholders; warm and approachable customer service orientation
• Alignment with MacDowell’s mission and core values
• Familiarity with arts non-profits and an interest in the arts are an added asset

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to travel to New York and New Hampshire as needed; strong preference will be given to candidates living in NH or NY states
• Ability to join virtual meetings in the North American Eastern time zone
• Ability to sit or stand in front of a computer workstation for ~20 hours/week
• Valid driver’s license preferred