Program Officer, Arts and Culture (Part-time)

Houston Endowment•Houston, TX

4h•Hybrid

About The Position

Houston Endowment Inc. (the “Foundation”) is an organization known for its dynamic culture and team of talented individuals who are deeply committed to the Foundation’s vision of a vibrant region where all have the opportunity to thrive. We seek a collaborative and detail-oriented professional to join our team as Program Officer, Arts & Culture. The Arts & Culture Program Officer will support the Foundation’s efforts to strengthen Greater Houston’s arts ecosystem, promote equitable access to cultural opportunities, and inform arts and culture policy and practice. The successful candidate will bring knowledge of Houston’s arts community—its organizations, artists, and networks along with strong skills in data analysis, research, and partnership development. This position is well-suited for someone who thrives on collaboration, values both creative and analytical work, and is committed to building a more inclusive and connected region through the arts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience in arts administration, cultural policy, public affairs, or a related field preferred.
At least 4–6 years of relevant professional experience in arts administration, nonprofit management, philanthropy, or cultural policy.
Strong knowledge of the Greater Houston arts and culture landscape.
Demonstrated ability to analyze qualitative and quantitative data and translate findings into actionable insights.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
Experience managing relationships and collaborating with community partners and grantees.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community-centered approaches in the arts.

Responsibilities

Support the Arts & Culture team in implementing the Foundation’s strategy, including managing a portfolio of grants and partnerships that strengthen arts organizations, creative workers, and community engagement.
Conduct due diligence on grant proposals, including review of programmatic and financial information, interviews, and site visits.
Monitor grantee progress through reports and conversations, summarize key insights, and support learning and improvement efforts.
Prepare written materials such as memos, analyses, and presentation materials for Foundation leadership and Board review.
Collaborate with the Learning and Evaluation team to collect, analyze, and interpret data to assess progress and inform future grantmaking.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with local arts organizations, artists, funders, and civic partners.
Represent the Foundation at community events, grantee meetings, and convenings.
Support coordination with other funders and public agencies to align efforts and identify opportunities for joint learning or investment.
Help organize and facilitate meetings, workshops, or research projects that advance the Foundation’s arts and culture goals.
Stay informed about trends in arts and culture, creative workforce development, and cultural policy locally and nationally.
Track and synthesize relevant data and research to inform strategy and grant decisions.
Share findings and insights with Foundation colleagues and partners in clear, accessible ways.