The Board of Trustees of the Plymouth Guild, Inc. (dba Plymouth Center for the Arts), a 501(c)3 community art center in historic Plymouth, Massachusetts, is seeking a passionate and visionary Executive Director to lead Plymouth Center for the Arts (PCA) into its next phase of growth and impact. Reporting to the Board, the Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, fundraising, operational and financial oversight, while fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation within the organization. This individual will serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for PCA, representing our mission and values to stakeholders, partners, and the broader community.

This will be the Art Center’s first Executive Director. PCA has been successfully run as an all-volunteer organization for 57 years, with a  “working” Board and dedicated committees that provide leadership in developing and implementing exhibitions, classes, community events, and other programs. As we have continued to grow, our Board has recognized the need for a professional to take the Art Center to the next level by growing a robust donor base, creating strong, innovative administrative and fiscal structures, and overseeing operations to ensure the future vitality of the organization. The Executive Director will direct and supervise three part-time independent contractors - an operations manager, administrative assistant, and financial assistant.

We anticipate that during the first year, the Executive Director will focus on fundraising while overseeing operations and activities at the Art Center. The working Board and Committees will continue to provide additional leadership and support. The following years there will be an emphasis on growing PCA’s programs and staffing, and leading the organization toward a mature nonprofit status.

Over 50 years ago, the Plymouth Guild had its beginnings as a series of tent shows. In 2007, Plymouth Center of the Arts was established in two historic buildings on North Street in the Plymouth Village Historic District, just steps from Plymouth Rock and the town waterfront. The beautifully restored 1902 Russell Library gallery and the 18th century Lindens building possess uncommonly elegant spaces that showcase diverse work created by regional artists.

In 2021, the Guild completed the “Elevate the Arts” renovation project which not only made the 3 levels of the building accessible to all with an elevator, but also opened up additional gallery and classroom space, modernized the restrooms, installed fire suppression systems, and improved electrical, lighting, and security systems. Complete history HERE.

2022 Annual Report

2024-25 Strategic Plan

The Executive Director will be experienced in outward-facing leadership, with proven skills that include raising visibility and building community. They will bring a deep love of art and culture, as well as genuine listening skills and a collaborative management style. This is a pivotal point for the Art Center and requires a new leader with perspective and experience who can help the Art Center expand and flourish while remaining an inclusive and accessible community-based art center inspiring people to discover and learn through art.

Development & Stewardship

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure financial support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government sources.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with major donors, sponsors, and partners.
• Oversee grant writing and reporting processes, ensuring compliance and timely submissions.
• Organize and lead fundraising events and campaigns to generate revenue and enhance community engagement.

Strategic & Programmatic Oversight

• Develop and execute the organization's strategic plan in alignment with its mission and vision.
• Identify new opportunities for growth and expansion of programs and services including partnering with other organizations to enhance impact.
• Monitor industry trends and ensure the organization remains relevant and competitive.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set organizational goals and priorities.
• In collaboration with the Committee Chairs and Operations Manager, oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services to ensure they meet community needs and organizational objectives with an eye towards innovation, quality, and alignment with mission.
• Regularly assess program effectiveness and suggest adjustments as needed.

Finance, Operations & Human Resources

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develop and manage the organization's budget, ensuring financial stability and sustainability.
• Oversee regular preparation of financial reports, including cash flow projections and budget forecasts for the Board with guidance from the Board Treasurer and assistance from the Financial Assistant.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Implement and maintain effective policies and procedures to guide operations.
• Serve as primary contact for all issues related to technology and facilities management.
• Oversee all human resources functions, including payroll and benefits management.

Staff Management & Leadership

• Provide strong, visionary leadership to the organization, inspiring and motivating volunteers and staff.
• Facilitate open communication and collaboration among volunteers and staff.
• Lead regular staff meetings and ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
• Foster a positive organizational culture that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Address and resolve any HR-related issues or conflicts that arise.
• In partnership with Board Members, coordinate represention at public events, conferences, and in the media.

• 5-7 years of progressive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and/or cultural arts organization.
• Demonstrated track record of successful fund raising, strategic planning, financial management, and program development.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, board members, and volunteers.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and build consensus.
• Proven ability to cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding agencies, and secure financial support for organizational initiatives.
• Passion for the arts and a commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of organizational practice.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365, CRM databases, Square Retail & Online (or similar software) Quickbooks Online
• This is a full time position. The Executive Director will be expected to be on site frequently and sometimes at short notice. While there is potential for some hybrid work, the role is not remote. The annual salary for this position is $100-$130k. PCA is open to the public Wednesday – Saturday, 10-4, and Sundays 1-4. It is closed for a 10 days over Christmas and New Year.

To apply in confidence, email to search@artsplymouth.org:

1. A letter expressing interest in this specific position and giving brief examples of past related experience,
2. A résumé or CV, and
3. Names of three references with contact information.

Submit application by November 1, 2024, to search@artsplymouth.org. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as candidates will be considered on a rolling basis. References will not be contacted without prior authorization.

Please email search@artsplymouth.org with questions or for support submitting your application.

Candidates who advance should expect:

• Virtual interview with the Search Committee, beginning in November, 2024.
• Virtual interview with Board members and Committee Chairs
• Final in-person interviews with selected stakeholders

The target start date is January-March 2025. Plymouth Center for the Arts is committed to conducting an equitable, accessible assessment process. If you would like to request accommodation during the interview process, please email search@artsplymouth.org. Requests for accommodation will be handled confidentially. 

Plymouth Center for the Arts is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Plymouth, Massachusetts is a historical seaside community located 40 miles southeast of Boston. As part of Boston’s suburban South Shore and on the edge of Cape Cod Bay, it is close to Boston, Providence, and the Cape. The town is steeped in history, with the Mayflower’s passengers among its founders. The area is rich in natural beauty, and the outdoors is quickly accessible through a network of conservation lands with trails, hiking and beaches. An active maritime community of boaters and fisherman and many artists call the region home. The public-school system is highly rated and metropolitan amenities are at-hand in nearby Boston.  

One of American’s leading intellectual centers, Boston boasts some of the most prestigious universities and medical centers in the world. The city is a world-class center for banking, health care and technology research. It is also steeped in 400 years of history, which it preserves and celebrates, while maintaining many distinct and historic neighborhoods. As a metropolis, it is home to numerous attractions including museums, theatres, musical events and many restaurant and brewery opportunities. The suburbs have some of the nation’s top-rated school systems. Boston is served by a strong public transportation system and offers outdoor recreation along the Charles River and Atlantic Ocean. Sports fans enjoy the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins, as well as the soccer team, the Revolution. New England’s bountiful outdoor recreational activities are quickly accessible, including sailing, hiking, and skiing.