Artist-Centered Program Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Artist Centered Program Manager at the Joan Mitchell Center (JMC) is responsible for the administration, assessment and refinement of JMC residency and public programming and acts as a primary contact and resource for artists. The ACPM reports to the Director of the Joan Mitchell Center to ensure effective day-to-day operations and residency cycles; and supervises the Artist-Centered Program Associate, Studio Assistant and the Digital Media Lab Assistant to ensure a supportive and productive environment for artists that aligns with the vision and goals of the Joan Mitchell Center. The ACPM also works closely with program staff at Joan Mitchell Foundation in New York to develop and administer collaborative programs, technical assistance and field-related convenings as well as informational resources for artists.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages the Center’s cornerstone Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program for local and national artists, with a focus on program policies, scheduling, contracting, payment and on-site technical and professional development support of artists during their residencies
• Acts as secondary site supervisor to the JMC Director, serving as the main point of contact for staff, AIRs, and vendors in the director’s absence for day-to-day and emergency purposes related to the program and facilities
• Facilitate AIR networking and produce public programming to foster meaningful relationships and dialogue between AIRs and New Orleans communities; with curators and arts professionals; and among AIRs; establish and maintain a productive and collegial work environment for all participants
• Implements an annual AIR residency application cycle that prioritizes demographic and artistic diversity and equitable program access on local and national levels; including program outreach, application materials, technical assistance, application review, jury selection, and notification
• Collaborates with the JMC Director and operations staff to ensure smooth and efficient implementation of AIR and Center programming, with a focus on event logistics and staffing, facilities condition and use, on-site safety and security and emergency protocols for artists.
• Conducts regular program evaluation and reporting through artist surveys and interviews, and actively seeks feedback from AIRs, jurors, and constituents and 
• Coordinates with Foundation Communications and Design staff to effectively document programs; develop and disseminate program information; and promote AIRs and the Center in print, digital and online formats 
• Works closely with program staff at the Joan Mitchell Foundation to develop and implement collaborative programming in the areas of professional development, alumni engagement, and other areas as needed while also ensuring protocols are aligned across the NYC and New Orleans offices.
• Administers program partnerships and special events as needed, including on weekends and evenings
• Fields requests and arranges guest stays and site uses by artists; works with the JMC Director to develop and refine procedures to ensure such commitments are mission- and goal-aligned 
• Prepares budgetary recommendations and monitors expenditures in areas of responsibility; ensures alignment with financial guidelines and responsible use of program dollars
• Works to develop a network of relevant colleagues and to remain apprised of current trends, developments and needs in the field; represents the Center’s programs at convenings and events as assigned 
• Actively participates in Center and Foundation planning, maintains program workplans and schedule in areas of responsibility
• Creates and maintains program recordkeeping, database and other administrative systems
• Acts as liaison for database planning and file architecture; and other areas as needed

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE SKILL REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience working in an administrative capacity, preferably in the arts or in community settings; no less than 5 years
• Minimum 2 years managerial and supervisory experience
• Experience working with artists; knowledge of and familiarity with artists’ needs and the field of artist support, both locally and nationally
• Understanding of the unique character of the New Orleans community of artists
• Proven track record in program design, implementation, and improvement
• Ability to network effectively and cultivate professional relationships
• Familiarity and ease with Mac-based computer systems
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Zoom; familiarity with database systems, online application platforms a plus
• Excellent communication skills, written and oral, and comfort with public speaking
• Proactive and solution-driven
• High level of personal and professional integrity, trustworthiness with a strong work ethic
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Commitment to the Joan Mitchell Foundation mission, vision, purpose and core values 
• Flexible schedule (evenings and/or weekends, occasional travel out of town for meetings, if necessary)
• Flexible schedule (availability to work some evenings and/or weekends)
• Driver’s license and clean driving record

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary: $78,000-90,000/ year
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance 
• 401k + Employer contribution
• Generous PTO, Sick time, and Floating Holidays
• Commuter benefits (parking and mass transit)
• Pet insurance, group accident insurance, MetLife Auto and Home Insurance, Lega Insurance
• Behavioral Health Employee Assistance Program

Note: The salary range is based on the Foundation’s approach and commitment to providing competitive and equitable compensation. The range shared is a guideline for the salary offered, which will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, special licensing or qualifications, unique skillsets, and other factors which will impact their contribution to the role and Foundation as a whole. In addition, the Foundation completes regular compensation analysis which aligns with our equitable compensation philosophy.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The Joan Mitchell Foundation cultivates the study and appreciation of artist Joan Mitchell’s life and work, while fulfilling her wish to provide resources and opportunities for visual artists. As the chief steward of Joan Mitchell’s legacy, the Foundation manages a collection of Mitchell’s artwork and archives containing her personal papers, photographs, sketchbooks, and other historical materials. Fulfilling Mitchell’s mandate to “aid and assist” living artists, over the past 30 years the Foundation has evolved a range of initiatives that have directly supported more than 1,200 U.S.-based visual artists at varying stages of their careers. The Joan Mitchell Fellowship gives annual unrestricted awards of $60,000 directly to artists, with funds distributed over a five-year period alongside dedicated and flexible professional development. The New Orleans-based Joan Mitchell Center hosts residencies for national and local artists and presents public programs that encourage dialogue and exchange with the local community. The Creating a Living Legacy (CALL) initiative provides free and essential resources to help artists of all ages organize, document, and manage their artworks and careers. Together, these programs actively engage with working artists as they develop and expand their practices. Learn more at joanmitchellfoundation.org.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY / REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS 

The Joan Mitchell Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to equity and inclusion in our organizational culture and our hiring practices. The Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, religion, race, color, creed, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, partnership status, veteran status, gender (including gender identity), sexual orientation, or any other factor prohibited by law. The Foundation believes that commitment to principles of fairness and respect for all help create a climate that is favorable to the free and open exchange of ideas. 

The Foundation proactively seeks to reach out as widely as possible in order to attract the best candidates to join the team.  If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply even if not sure you meet 100% of our qualifications. Employment decisions are made based on an individual’s qualifications to contribute to meeting the Foundation’s objectives and its organizational needs. In addition, the Foundation will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals in all aspects of the employment process. If accommodations are needed for the role, they can be submitted to Humanresources@joanmitchellfoundation.org. 

This description and potential offer shall not be construed as a contract of any sort for a specific period of employment as the Foundation recognizes employment is at will.