Vice President of Education

Overview:
This senior leader directs a team whose work is integral to the mission of Blumenthal Performing Arts (BPA). They are a key liaison between community members, Trustees and staff to better understand community needs. They develop high impact programs that use BPA’s unique assets to effectively address those needs. It connects BPA with as broad a cross-section of the community as possible in support of its goal to make its programs available and relevant to each citizen. Creates and directs programs that use BPA’s diverse programming and venues to nurture a life-long interest in the arts. It also creates programs that unify the community by welcoming the public to BPA venues and helping each citizen to feel respected, energized and connected to others by the creative experiences BPA offers. This position develops and manages programs that use the arts to motivate young people to enhance their artistic and personal skills, as well as develop discipline, teamwork and positive self-esteem. The role creates and manages programs that unify the community by celebrating the creative abilities, traditions and interests of each citizen regardless of their age, race or background. You will utilize best practices in arts education and community engagement, as well as develop innovative programs and strategies that are a model to others. You will communicate effectively with donors, Trustees, Grantmakers and community leaders to help them understand the impact and value of BPA programs in creating a vibrant, inclusive community. This position reports to BPA President.

Duties and responsibilities:
• Directs the overall management and operation of the Education Department.
• Cultivates and inspires a strong team of talented professionals in the Education Department who are strongly committed to serving the public and in working collaboratively with other BPA Departments.
• Develops and manages the departmental budget and project budgets.
• Recommends promotions, salary increases and bonuses and discipline/discharge when necessary for staff within the Education Department.
• Works closely with area educators to understand the needs of students, parents and schools. Develop programs that address those needs.
• Effectively communicates the value and impact of BPA Education programs to staff, Trustees, partners and community members. Assists them in also being able to share that information with others. Communicates changes to current programs and the development of new programs within the Education Department ensuring all messaging and information is current and up to date.
• Gives special attention to students identified with both unique potential and unique challenges to overcome, such as lack of family support, lack of opportunity to develop skills, as well the need for personal and professional mentoring/guidance.
• Closely coordinates with other BPA departments in developing and managing programs. Seeks collaboration that meaningfully links the activities of the Education Department with other staff and BPA departments.
• Researches trends, funding sources, products, etc. in arts education for possible relevance and application to BPA
• Oversees the department’s collection of accurate statistical information required for reporting to management, Trustees, committee members, grant makers and others.
• Formulates and implements department policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all applicable BPA policies and governmental laws and regulations.
• Represents BPA to the community by attending and speaking at community meetings and events.
• Participates as a member of the senior leadership team in developing the strategic direction of BPA, creating institution and staffing policies, as well as building relationships with donors, trustees and community members.
• Represents BPA on regional and national committees.
• Requires participation in various evening and weekend activities, as well as some travel.

Qualifications:
• Preferred Master’s degree in liberal arts, fine arts or a related field.
• At least 5 years of supplemental experience in various aspects of education or community leadership.
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities will be considered.
Specific competencies
• Managing multiple priorities.
• Results-oriented.
• Relationship building/networking.
• Leadership.
• Fiscal stewardship.
• Managing employee performance.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Delegating responsibility and empowering employees.

About the department:
The Department is integral to the mission of Blumenthal Performing Arts (BPA). It offers a wide variety of programs which extend and enhance the impact of BPA performances with a goal of serving the entire community.
Current signature programs include
• The Blumey Awards, a regional high school musical theater awards program that is affiliated with the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (The Jimmy Awards).
• Junior Ambassadors, a professional development/service program for High School Juniors and Seniors.
• Internship Program offered primarily to college students.
• Get to Know the Show, periodic free programs about upcoming performances.
• Charlotte Live!, a social club for Middle and High School students that offers deeply discounted tickets to designated performances preceded by food and networking.
• Teachers Lounge, a social club for teachers that offers social time, dinner together and deeply discounted tickets to designated performances.
• Junior Theater Celebration, annual day for participating schools mounting a Broadway, Junior production.
• Open Mic, a program featuring diverse Charlotte talent.
• Ticket Scholarships for community partners that provides tickets at little or no cost.
• Loonis McGlohon Student Jazz Artist competition.
• The Department assists partners including but not limited to Broadway Dreams, North Carolina Theater Conference, BreatheInk.
• In addition to these ongoing signature programs, other activities are created that relate to specific productions and projects. While many programs have continued for years, the department responds to the changing needs of Charlotte by cycling in new programs and phasing out others.