Career Opportunity: Executive Director

Atlanta Contemporary engages the public through the creation, presentation, and advancement of contemporary art in vibrant Atlanta, GA. Each year, Atlanta Contemporary serves over 12,000 visitors, features over 200 artists across exhibitions and project space, and organizes more than 125 programs.

We are seeking an Executive Director (ED) who will put their imprint on the organization by leading all aspects of the Atlanta Contemporary (AC), including the development of revenues, organizational management, operations and the annual operating budget all guided by the organization's 2026-2028 Strategic Plan.

With a passion for the AC’s Mission, you will have the opportunity to:

• Be a visionary leader with emphasis on strategy and implementation

• Advance the field of contemporary art and the evolving role of museums

• Collaborate with a highly engaged staff and active Board of Directors (BOD)

• Advance the core values of the AC through artistic programming, including the Studio Artist and Independent Curatorial Programs

• Guide the organization and the BOD by making decisions and achieving goals that will guide the organization into the future

A Day in the Life of the ED

Fundraising

• As the lead fundraiser for Atlanta Contemporary, the ED is responsible for oversight of all revenue streams

• Cultivate ongoing relationships with foundations, government funders, and donor;. Identify and steward new relationships locally, nationally, and internationally in service to goals outlined in the Strategic Plan

• Drive direction for grant applications and leads organizational fundraising activities. Work with development staff to conceptualize and implement fundraisers and amplify the membership program

• Obtain sponsorships and funding for 50% of the costs for exhibitions

Leadership + Management

• Implement Atlanta Contemporary’s mission, manage the organization, and oversee all aspects of the day-to-day operations

• Develop, steward, and support a strong Board of Directors; encourage and empower the board’s involvement with strategic initiatives and fundraising

• Develop the annual operating budget in consultation with senior staff and the Board, make financial decisions consistent with the budget as approved by the Board, and keep the Board apprised of the fiscal health of the organization

• Supervise and champion Atlanta Contemporary staff and contract workers to foster a collegial and supportive work environment

• Ensure facilities are assessed, managed, and kept functional (with support of Facilities Manager)

• Support a community-focused environment that fosters inclusivity and respect

• Facilitate Artistic Direction through Collaboration with Curatorial Advisory Board

• Ensure timely promotion and communication about exhibitions and programs and coordinate public programming alongside the program staff

What It Takes

• Minimum Bachelor's degree, Master’s degree preferred

• Minimum 4-6 years of previous experience in a museum, arts organization or other non-profit organization

• Minimum 4-6 years of experience in a leadership role with staff, contractors and budget management responsibilities of $500k or greater

• Proficiency in Fundraising and Development

• The flexibility to accommodate temporary shifts in schedules, including weekend and evening work

While it is understood that no one person will bring every desired skill, characteristic, and experience, a background in the following specific areas would be beneficial:

• Art Knowledge: preferred expertise in contemporary art and design practice including exhibitions, events, and curatorial practice

• Real Estate and Facilities Management: ability to manage artist studio rentals and upkeep of the entire campus and historical structures

Additional Things to Know

• The above statements are intended to generally describe the work being performed by the person in this role. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities

• Compensation for this role is between $105k-$120k annually

• The Atlanta Contemporary offers a competitive benefits package

• A moving stipend may be considered for this role

If this sounds like you, we are excited to meet you! 

Applications will be open until October 31st. 

To learn more about you, please share the following by email with board@atlantacontemporary.org:

• Resume
• A Cover Letter
• Three Professional References

*Note the final candidate will need to successfully complete a background check. We will also be contacting your 3 professional references at that time.

Please also complete the screening survey below:

Screening Survey

EEO/AA Statement: The Atlanta Contemporary provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics or Veteran/Reserve/National Guard status