Executive Director - Creative Washtenaw

Posted on 7/9/25

CREATIVE WASHTENAW IS SEARCHING FOR OUR NEXT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Start Date: September 1st, 2025

Are you a nonprofit leader with a deep appreciation for the arts? Do you embrace leading in a dynamic environment, creating impact, addressing challenges, building partnerships and shaping new opportunities? Are you a strategic planner, creative problem solver and team builder? Would you like to work in one of the most vibrant, culturally rich regions in Michigan? 

Job Title: Executive Director (Part Time, .75 FTE)
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan (Washtenaw County)
Organization: Creative Washtenaw (creativewashtenaw.org) 
Schedule: 30 hours per week, flexible
Compensation: $50,000-$53,000 annually
Benefits: Paid time off
Application Deadline: Accepting applications until position is filled
Start Date: September 1, 2025  

About Creative Washtenaw 

Creative Washtenaw is a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Ann Arbor, MI. It serves as the leading voice for the arts and creative industries in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and the communities of Washtenaw County. Recognizing the essential role the arts play in community vitality, economic development, and individual well-being, Creative Washtenaw’s mission is to ensure the region remains a vibrant place for all to create, live, work, learn, play, and visit. It does this through programming and services that facilitate, advocate, communicate, educate, and celebrate the creative sector.

Position Summary 

The Executive Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of the organization, and will be responsible for advancing Creative Washtenaw’s mission, strengthening its financial health, expanding community partnerships, and guiding  programming, services, and advocacy efforts. During the upcoming year, the new Executive Director will work with the board to develop and implement a new strategic plan to continue serving the region’s creative sector and growing the organization, its impact and  sustainability during these dynamic times. 

This is a part-time, .75 FTE, salaried position, ideal for a creative, nimble, task oriented, and highly organized professional who is passionate about the arts and values community building, teamwork, and working in an impactful, creative, mission-driven environment. This  position averages 30 hours per week but offers great flexibility in scheduling and workspace. Work will be conducted both remotely and in person.

Key Responsibilities 

Leadership & Strategy 

• Provide vision, direction, and oversight for all operations, programs, and advocacy initiatives. 
• Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to develop its next strategic plan, implement strategic goals, and ensure alignment with mission and values. 
• Serve as the public face and primary spokesperson of the organization.

Financial Management & Fund Development 

• Lead fundraising efforts, including donor development, sponsorships, grant funding, special events, and annual campaign.
• Identify and develop revenue producing opportunities.
  
• Develop and manage the annual budget and ensure sound financial practices.
• Report regularly on financial health and organizational performance to the Board.

Community Engagement & Advocacy 

• Foster strong relationships and engagement with local artists of all disciplines, cultural organizations, civic leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Represent Creative Washtenaw in local and statewide advocacy efforts supporting the creative sector.
• Elevate visibility and engagement of the arts in public policy and community planning.

Operations & Administration 

• Supervise staff, contractors, and volunteers. 
• Oversee day-to-day business operations, including program management, communications, finance, and administrative responsibilities. 
• Ensure compliance with all local, state and federal legal and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will bring 

• Proven leadership experience in arts administration, nonprofit management, or a related field. Experience leading through transition and contemporary challenges preferred. 
• Initiative, creative problem solving, and nimble leadership. 
• Strategic planning and implementation. 
• Strong fundraising and financial management skills. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Additional experience in marketing communications, media relations and/or community relations, preferred. 
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. 
• Deep commitment to the value of arts, culture, and creativity in community life. 
• Familiarity with Washtenaw County’s arts and cultural landscape is strongly preferred.
  

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to 

apply@creativewashtenaw.org with the subject line “Executive Director Application – [Your Name].” 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.  

Creative Washtenaw is an equal opportunity employer. 

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.apply@creativewashtenaw.org