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Gateway Playhouse

Executive Director

Gateway Playhouse, Somers Point, New Jersey, us, 08244

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The Theater Collaborative of South Jersey – Gateway Playhouse

Executive Director Job Description

Overview The Executive Director provides visionary and operational leadership for the Theater Collaborative of South Jersey – Gateway Playhouse. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization, including funding, programming, staffing, financial management, educational initiatives, community engagement, and day-to-day operations.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement financial strategies to ensure the long-term fiscal health of TCSJ.

Create an annual budget in collaboration with the Board; monitor and manage all financial activities.

Oversee fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation, grant writing, and strategic partnerships.

Manages accounts payable and ensures all bills and expenses are paid on time

Build relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and key government officials.

Effectively communicate the TCSJ mission to stakeholders and the broader community.

Programming Oversight

Partner with the Artistic Director to ensure optimal use of theatre facilities through high-quality, mission-aligned programming.

Negotiate, draft, and execute timely written agreements for theatre usage for outside vendors.

Supports educational programming and Mainstage programming by serving as the primary human resources contact for staff.

Responsible for executing contracts and issuing 1099 forms.

Strategic Planning

Lead the development and implementation of short- and long-term strategic goals.

Recommend and implement operational improvements as needed.

Work collaboratively with the Board to set strategic direction.

Relationship Building

Serve as the public face of TCSJ, promoting its vision and mission throughout the community.

Foster strong relationships with Board members, local government, media, and community partners.

Support and coordinate the efforts of volunteers, committees, and staff.

Ensure effective communication strategies to promote TCSJ programming and activities.

Staffing & Human Resources

Design and maintain an effective organizational structure aligned with TCSJ’s goals.

Recruit, manage, and evaluate staff; conduct annual performance reviews.

Oversees Front of the House manager and Box Office.

Facilities Management

Supervise short- and long-term maintenance and improvement projects to ensure the structural integrity and functionality of the facility.

Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, including hazardous materials inspections.

Maintain the highest standards in all areas of the theatre experience: ticketing, front-of-house operations, food and beverage, cleanliness, and production logistics.

Coordinate schedules and logistics for performances, rehearsals, and special events across departments.

Ensure timely internal communication among all operational teams.

Governance

Reports directly to the TCSJ Board of Directors, which retains final decision-making authority.

Maintains open communication with the Board and collaborates closely with the Board Chairperson.

Qualifications Must Have

Commitment to the mission and values of TCSJ

Strong background in programming and experience with theater

Proven financial management experience (1–2 years minimum) in a nonprofit or public sector organization

Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills; ability to motivate and hold staff accountable

Experience engaging with and reporting to a Board of Directors

Ability to effectively represent TCSJ and inspire others to support its mission

Strong fundraising and donor development skills

Confident, decisive leader who earns trust and inspires action

Clear and persuasive communicator and active listener

Flexible, open to innovation, and willing to adapt strategies to achieve goals

3+ years of experience as an Executive Director in a nonprofit organization

BS/BA or equivalent experience

Proven success in cultivating relationships with donors, funders, and community leaders

Familiarity with the culture, economy, and tourism of the South Jersey Shore

Understanding of regional social, economic, and political dynamics

Effective delegation and team communication

The Gateway Playhouse seeks to provide year-round, quality, affordable entertainment to residents and visitors alike, as well as offer educational opportunities to students, in hopes of creating future generations of actors, directors, and audiences.

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