Director of Downtown Arts, Culture, & Entertainment - DowntownDC BID
About The Position
The Director of Downtown Arts, Culture, & Entertainment will lead the effort to position DowntownDC as the region’s premier destination for arts, culture, sports, and entertainment. This role will unify the area’s extraordinary mix of theaters, museums, galleries, entertainment venues, and creative spaces under a shared identity that celebrates Downtown’s vibrancy, creativity, and diversity—while honoring its historic Chinatown roots. As part of the DowntownDC BID’s strategic commitment to advancing the Downtown Arts, Culture, & Entertainment, the Director will serve as the chief convener, collaborator, and champion for the district’s cultural ecosystem. Through creative placemaking, branding, and cross-sector partnerships, the Director will activate public spaces, expand access to the arts, and cultivate a thriving creative economy that attracts residents, workers, and visitors year-round.
Requirements
- A minimum of five (5) years of experience in the arts, culture, or entertainment industry, and experience leading projects that convene diverse stakeholders required ten (10) years or more of experience preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Strong written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communications skills
- Proven ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and multi-task.
- Strong work ethic.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes some nights and weekends as appropriate.
- May infrequently work in adverse weather conditions.
Nice To Haves
- A visionary leader who blends creativity with strong organizational and relationship management skills.
- Experienced in arts management, urban planning, cultural strategy, or destination marketing.
- Skilled in coalition-building, stakeholder engagement, and translating big-picture ideas into action.
- Deep appreciation for cultural diversity, urban vitality, and the power of arts to shape identity and economic growth.
- Exceptional communicator with a collaborative, entrepreneurial spirit.
- Proven success and interest in fundraising, identifying grants, and securing sponsorships.
- Strong financial acumen and experience creating and adhering to budgets and spending plans.
Responsibilities
- Stakeholder Coordination & Partnership Building
- Brand & Marketing Leadership
- Creative Placemaking & Programming
- Funding & Sustainability
- Measurement & Accountability
- All other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with matching and safe harbor
- FSA and HSA (with the HSA covering the employee deductible)
- Metro travel card
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Number of Employees
101-250 employees
