Managing Director of Programs

Lighthouse Writers Workshop•Denver, CO

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Lighthouse Writers Workshop is seeking a Managing Director of Programs to provide operational team leadership and execute, plan, and manage the organization’s program vision in alignment with the Artistic Director. The role oversees the programs department and the delivery of year-round workshops, classes, and events, including program design, instructor relationships, events, and evaluation. As part of the executive leadership team, the Managing Director helps advance strategic, financial, and organizational goals through sustainable growth, efficient and equitable operations, effective systems and training, achievable planning, and a collaborative, healthy staff culture. The position works with the Artistic Director, staff, and partners to support Lighthouse’s mission and growth. The Managing Director oversees program managers and coordinators, including the Young Writers Manager, Program Coordinators, Community Engagement Manager, and Festivals and Events Manager. The role supervises and develops staff, manages faculty onboarding and performance processes, and coordinates program resources, budgets, contracts, reporting, workflows, and evaluation. The position is hybrid, with three days per week required in the office. Flexibility is needed for special events and occasional nights and weekends.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in a senior management or director-level leadership role, with a proven record of success in progressive management, financial and strategic planning, and operations; nonprofit experience is preferred.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Strong organizational, operational, and team leadership experience.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility practices.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to lead across diverse teams.
Experience with staff training and professional development.

Nice To Haves

Experience in curriculum development.
Strong interest in literature and creative writing.
Excellent communication and conflict-management skills.
Strong entrepreneurial spirit.

Responsibilities

Translate the Artistic Director’s mission and artistic vision into actionable goals for program teams.
Assist with creating and implementing the strategic plan as it relates to programs.
Oversee the lifecycle of literary programming, including adult workshops and one-day events, visiting author workshops, festivals, community engagement programming, and young writers workshops.
Approve and lead the curation of adult session workshops in collaboration with the Artistic Director.
Evaluate program success, refine future offerings, and prepare reports to support decision-making.
Allocate staff, materials, and technology to support efficient program execution.
Establish and maintain project timelines and workflows across program areas, using Asana to track progress and milestones.
Manage attendance tracking and program data entry in accordance with SCFD requirements.
Work with the programs team to develop and manage the annual programming budget.
Oversee contract execution and logistics in accordance with the established budget.
Oversee monthly expense reporting for programs charged to the company card.
Build and maintain equitable, diverse, and inclusive programming.
Attend and serve as emcee or facilitator for special events, salons, and readings as needed, and support other events and organizational initiatives.
Supervise and mentor program managers and coordinators, providing guidance, professional development, and feedback.
Conduct annual reviews and goal-setting with direct reports in alignment with strategic plans, annual work plans, and program goals.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive team culture that supports creativity and innovation.
Oversee programmatic internship programs.
Work productively with volunteers, board members, special committees, and staff; support training for new program staff and volunteers.
Oversee onboarding and training of new contract faculty members and the faculty invoice approval process.
Assist the Artistic Director with faculty check-ins to identify challenges and opportunities.
Evaluate faculty performance through student evaluations; manage and coach faculty as needed.
Follow up on student and faculty complaints or concerns.
Collaborate with the Artistic Director and program team on faculty enrichment and development opportunities, including trainings and personal development.