Executive Director

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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