Posted: 3/28/2025
Salary Range: $90,000 - $100,000
About Delaware Theatre Company
In 1979, Delaware Theatre Company found its first home the moment founding Artistic Director Cleveland Morris set eyes on an abandoned firehouse at Third and French Streets.
With minor renovations funded by the city, individual donors and sweat equity, the company was ready to put on a show. The fare was not intended to be a grab bag of “something for everyone,” but rather an attempt to show that theatre—an ancient, powerful art form—was capable of touching every human emotion.
In 1984, the City of Wilmington asked Delaware Theatre Company to relocate, and with the successful completion of Delaware Theatre Company’s first capital campaign, led by Board Chairman Charles F. Richards, Jr., it became the first arts and culture organization on the Riverfront.
The mission of Delaware Theatre Company is to create theatre of the highest professional quality in Delaware and thereby enrich the vitality of the area through artistic programming, education and community service.
Since its beginning, the theatre has produced over 220 mainstage productions, seen by more than one million patrons, and has impacted over 100,000 people through its Education and Community Engagement programs.
About Wilmington, Delaware and the Riverfront
Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware, located in New Castle County at the convergence of the Christina River and Brandywine Creek. It is the state’s industrial, financial, and commercial center and main port.
This City is a charming destination and is known for its budget-friendly appeal, diverse experiences, and the cozy charm of historic towns. Wilmington and the surrounding area are a delightful mix of artisan attractions, cultural festivals, and vibrant local flavor. The City is located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, and offers world-class museums, cultural and entertainment venues, creative dining, and through multicultural events, the City and region continue to celebrate its rich heritage in every way.
The City’s central location, along the I-95 and Amtrak northeast corridors, make it an ideal location for living, working and visiting. Delaware’s proximity to Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York City make it an ideal and prime location.
Riverfront Wilmington is a thriving attraction in the City and it too combines a rich history with a host of attractions that bring great food, entertainment and shopping to the city. The River Walk stretches from Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park to the Shipyard Shops, and extends to the DuPont Environmental Education Center. The Wilmington Riverfront is home to Delaware Theatre Company.
Position Overview
The Managing Director, in support of, and in partnership with the Artistic Director, will jointly lead Delaware Theatre Company as it builds on its vision and mission. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director will ensure the financial health and sustainability of the organization while guiding all operational and administrative functions, including fundraising, marketing, human resources, and community engagement efforts. The Managing Director will play a critical role in the organization’s strategic growth, overseeing business operations, financial management, fundraising efforts, and staff leadership. This individual will be a strategic thinker, an outstanding communicator, and a passionate advocate for the tremendous positive impact nonprofit arts organizations have on our communities. This individual thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and has a deep sense of personal and professional integrity.
The Artistic Director leads the season planning process in consultation with the Managing Director, particularly as it relates to the development of budgets and educational initiatives. The Managing Director and the Artistic Director will jointly partner with the Board in the formulation of long-term strategic goals to enhance DTC’s visibility and impact while fostering a positive and inclusive organizational culture.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Collaborate with the Artistic Director to shape and execute DTC’s strategic vision, ensuring alignment between artistic and business goals.
- Work closely with the Board of Directors to maintain organizational health, fundraising progress, financial performance, and key strategic initiatives.
- Identify and implement strategies to increase organizational visibility, impact, and financial sustainability.
Fundraising, Development & Marketing
- Lead fundraising efforts, including the cultivation and solicitation of major donors, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and individual contributions.
- Oversee the creation and execution of fundraising campaigns and events.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, patrons, and key stakeholders in the arts community.
- Oversee marketing and communications strategies to expand and diversify audiences, subscribers, donors, and manage marketing for development operations.
Financial Management
- Oversee the organization’s financial health, working closely with the business manager in budget planning, cash flow management, financial forecasting, and reporting.
- Ensure responsible fiscal management of resources, working closely with the Finance Committee/Board Treasurer and external accountants.
- Implement cost-effective strategies that ensure long-term financial sustainability while maintaining the integrity and excellence of the artistic programming.
Staff & Operations Management
- Manage senior staff and support managers in management of their direct reports; oversee the day-to-day operations of the theatre, including human resources, administrative processes, and operations efficiency.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and growth across all departments.
- Lead staff development initiatives, including professional growth opportunities and performance management.
- In collaboration with the Artistic Director, manage all theatre contracting and production negotiations.
Community Engagement & Stakeholder Relations
- Serve as an ambassador for DTC, representing the company to external stakeholders, partners, sponsors, and the broader community.
- Build relationships with local, regional, and national theater partners to enhance DTC’s reputation and influence within the broader cultural landscape.
- Collaborate with the Artistic Director and marketing team to develop and execute audience engagement strategies.
Board Relations
- Lead communication process with Board of Directors.
- Present operations and financial reports to Board during regularly scheduled meetings (and updates between meetings as is necessary).
- Staff Board Committees and/or appoint appropriate senior staff to participate in Board and Committee meetings.
- Maintain regular contact with the Board Chairperson.
Experience
- Minimum of 5-7 years of senior-level management experience in the nonprofit sector, preferably in the arts, including significant experience in fundraising, financial management, and strategic planning.
- Bachelor’s degree in related field required; graduate degree preferred.
- Demonstrated success in developing and managing fundraising campaigns and donor relations, with a record of accomplishment of securing major gifts and sponsorships.
- Proven ability to manage and lead diverse teams, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience in managing organizational finances, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- Understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing regional theatres and a passion for the performing arts.
Skills & Attributes
- Exceptional business acumen and the ability to balance artistic and financial goals.
- Strong leadership and team-building skills, with a collaborative and inclusive management style.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
- Creative problem solver, strategic thinker, and detail-oriented.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
The Managing Director will bring demonstrated leadership experience, ideally in theatre or the arts. A proven track record of success in fundraising, fiscal understanding and accountability, facilities management, and strategic partnership building is essential. They should exhibit exceptional integrity, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including artists, staff, board members, donors, and community partners. The Managing Director will possess a deep commitment to diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
Personal Characteristics
- A passion for nonprofit management, particularly live theatre, and a deep commitment to the mission and values of Delaware Theatre Company.
- A forward-thinking and visionary leader.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
- A proactive, “can-do” attitude and a willingness to take initiative and drive results.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time, salaried, onsite senior management position. Work hours vary according to the event schedule and may include weekends, holidays, and other scheduled work periods as necessary.
Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that should be met by an employee to successfully perform the minimum requirements of this position:
- Regularly requires standing for extended periods.
- Occasionally requires lifting/carrying up to 25 pounds.
- Includes routine office work in a typical office environment.
Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Health insurance, with optional dental and vision coverage.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
- Collaborative and supportive work environment.
How to Apply Submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@delawaretheatre.org to apply.
Priority consideration will be given to candidates that apply by Monday, April 21. Delaware Theatre Company champions diversity and inclusion and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
In your cover letter, please explain why you are passionate about nonprofit management, why this opportunity appeals to you, and what you believe you could contribute to the future success of Delaware Theatre Company. Professional references will be a requirement of the hiring process.
Delaware Theatre Company is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and identities to apply. It provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.