Managing Director

The Academy of Magical Arts•Hollywood, CA

11d

About The Position

The Academy of Magical Arts is a California 501(c)(7) nonprofit social and recreational organization dedicated to advancing, preserving, and celebrating the art of magic. Through education, programming, awards, scholarship, and community building, the Academy supports excellence in magical performance while safeguarding the history, traditions, and future of the craft. As a member driven organization, the Academy exists to serve and inspire magicians around the world, foster fellowship, and steward one of the most respected institutions in the global magic community. Position Summary The Managing Director serves as the senior administrative and operational leader of the Academy and as a steward of its mission to advance, preserve, and elevate the art of magic. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, this role guides the organization’s day to day operations, programs, and administrative functions during an important post transition period, while protecting the Academy’s culture, legacy, and long term sustainability. Working in close partnership with the Board, the Managing Director translates evolving priorities into practical, compliant, and mission aligned operations that enhance the membership experience and strengthen the Academy’s reputation as the leading organization dedicated to the magical arts. This leader oversees core Academy functions including the AMA Awards, Library, Committees and Volunteers, Magic Programming, Education, and Magic University, ensuring each area reflects the Academy’s commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community service. The role also maintains a professional and collaborative relationship with Magic Castle Enterprises to ensure the Academy’s programs operate smoothly within the shared clubhouse environment. This is an evolving leadership role that requires flexibility, sound judgment, and a deep respect for both nonprofit governance and the traditions of the magic community.

Requirements

Senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, arts, cultural, or member driven organization
Experience working closely with boards and governance bodies
Demonstrated success translating strategy into operations
Strong financial acumen and budget management experience
Comfort operating with shared authority and evolving priorities
Excellent communication and relationship building skills
Passion for and understanding of magic as a performing art

Nice To Haves

Experience with fundraising or foundations preferred
Connections within the magic community preferred
Membership or familiarity with the Academy a plus

Responsibilities

Strategic and Organizational Leadership Partner with the Board to shape and implement strategic priorities
Provide operational continuity, institutional knowledge, and risk awareness
Balance long range planning with near term stability
Oversee the AMA Awards Show and supervise the show producer
Ensure fair and compliant awards election processes
Lead Magic Programming, Education, and Magic University initiatives
Maintain high quality, mission aligned educational and artistic offerings
Direct day to day administrative and programmatic operations
Ensure efficient service delivery within the shared use clubhouse environment
Develop systems, processes, and documentation to support clarity and accountability
Serve as primary staff liaison to the Board
Provide clear and timely reporting on operations and risks
Support committees and volunteers with coordination and follow through
Foster a respectful, collaborative culture
Maintain open communication with membership
Address concerns and ideas constructively
Maintain a strong professional partnership with Magic Castle Enterprises
Partner with Administrative Director on budget development and management
Ensure strong internal controls and fiduciary stewardship
Meet Board approved financial targets
Lead and support a lean staff structure
Appoint and guide project leads
Encourage volunteer engagement and initiative ownership