Director, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts

James Madison University•Harrisonburg, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) at James Madison University (JMU) is seeking a Director of the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts. This 12-month administrative appointment offers an opportunity to lead a premier performing arts venue and contribute to the cultural life of the university and the Shenandoah Valley. The Forbes Center is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts hundreds of performances annually, including internationally acclaimed artists, faculty and student productions, and educational programs. It features five performance venues and serves as a bridge between the university and the community, fostering cultural enrichment and engagement through programming, masterclasses, and outreach initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in arts administration, performing arts, or a related field.
At least two years of experience in performing arts programming or arts administration, with some exposure to season planning, artist booking, or contracting.
Familiarity with audience development strategies and a demonstrated ability to grow audiences for the performing arts.
Familiarity with fundraising, sponsorship development, and grant writing.
Working knowledge of performing arts operations, such as budgeting, box office, or production.
Emerging leadership abilities, with the capacity to collaborate effectively and work well with staff, faculty, and community partners.
Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to accessibility in programming and outreach.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as required by performance schedules.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in arts administration, performing arts, or a related field.
Leadership in fundraising, sponsorship development, and grant writing.
Experience with artist booking, contract negotiation, or budget management.
Experience with digital and social media marketing strategies to support audience development.
Familiarity with facility management and long-term maintenance planning.
Experience developing educational and community engagement programs.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and day-to-day operational oversight for the Forbes Center.
Curate and contract a season of performances in collaboration with the Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
Expand outreach to underserved audiences; develop educational programs and masterclasses in partnership with faculty.
Support development efforts by helping identify sponsorship opportunities and contributing to grant proposals.
Oversee day-to-day operations, including box office, production, budgeting, and reporting; support facilities operations.
Coordinate recruitment, training, and support of Forbes Center staff; foster a collaborative and welcoming work environment.
Collaborate with Director of Marketing and Branding on advertising strategies, website updates, and season launch events.
Champion initiatives in programming and audience engagement.
Work collaboratively with School of Music and School of Theatre and Dance, as well as other stakeholders, to support performance seasons and facilities rentals.