Program Director

TO APPLY: Please submit a cover letter, resume and list of 3 references to
info@headlands.org by January 8th, 2010

The Program Director is responsible for conceiving of and implementing a dynamic and innovative season of public programs that highlight Headlands role in the community and utilize the organization’s unique location, campus and access to the creative process and cultural thinkers. Programs should advance Headlands’ mission, encourage critical thinking, engage the public and foster the exchange of ideas across cultures and professional disciplines. In addition, the Program Director will, in conjunction with staff, develop projects, cultivate local partnerships and work with current and alumni Artists in Residence to support the development of new work and ideas.

Qualifications: A self-motivated, dynamic individual who excels in a fast-paced creative environment and thinks both strategically and logistically. A background in cultural programming, critical theory and writing, curatorial practice and/or presenting highly desirable. Experience organizing fee for service programs a plus. Minimum of three years of professional experience preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Filemaker pro, Design software and html desirable. Due to our Marin Headlands location, a car is required.

Primary responsibilities include:

Public Programs

A. Research, develop, schedule, implement and market a diverse range of public programs. Programs showcase the work and ideas of artists, thinkers and innovators, and address subjects of timely aesthetic, social political and scientific significance. Current strategies include:

1. Talks, salons, and symposia
2. Performances and presentations of new work/work in progress
3. Project Space series, including temporary installations
4. Tri-annual Open Houses
5. Collaborations with artists and other organizations

B. Work in concert with the Residency Manager to supervise the activities of interns, and volunteers in support of public programs, including technical set-up, promotion, documentation and audience management.

C. Maintain and support existing collaborative programming with other organizations locally, nationally, and internationally to maximize Headlands reach and awareness in the community, advance common interests, and support artists and their work.

Artist Studio Programs

A. Collaborate with the Residency Manager, Chef and staff responsible for implementation of the Artists in Residence Program as appropriate

1. Coordinate the development and design of print and online materials, as they relate to programs, including Headlands triennial newsletter, website content, residency guidelines calls for project proposals
2. Maintain Headlands professional standards in artist nominations and selection process.
3. Coordinate selection and orientation of jurors and outside advisors.
4. Support opportunities to encourage collaboration among Headlands residents and affiliates that enrich their experience and opportunities for learning from the proximity of other approaches and disciplines.
5. Support involvement of artists on site and within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in Headlands activities.

Administration and Public Relations

A. Assist in the development of materials as requested by staff responsible for design, layout, and production of program-specific materials.

B. Work with designer to produce Newsletter. Produce artists bios and alumni news and gather additional newsletter material including the directors letter, development news and staffing updates. Work with Headlands staff to enhance the role of both print and electronic media in communicating effectively about Headlands programs.

C. Work with the Program Committee Chair and the Program Committee to strengthen its work in evaluating and providing input for program direction. Facilitate incorporation of diverse aesthetic viewpoints and artist involvement through appointed advisory committee(s).

D. Support Headlands’ other departments and overall operations.

1. Communicate regularly and clearly with all Headlands staff on program needs and operations.
2. Meet regularly with Development staff to share ideas and opportunities for support, including the provision of grant materials and support for Headlands Annual Auction.
3. Provide program information needed for communicating with and reporting to donors.
4. Provide timely and detailed information on site, building and equipment needs to facilities staff and administrative staff charged with providing support to programs.
5. Participate in staff meetings.
6. Perform other duties as may be assigned by Executive Director.

 Headlands Center for the Arts
Situated in a nine-building historic campus, located in the coastal Marin Headlands region of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Headlands Center for the Arts hosts an internationally recognized Artist in Residence (AIR) Program, interdisciplinary public programs, and subsidized studio rentals for Bay Area artists of all disciplines. Each year international artists are encouraged to apply for residencies that are selected by expert panels. Through these programs, Headlands offers opportunities for artist research, dialogue and exchange that build understanding and appreciation for the role of art in society.

Headlands mission is to serve the public in better understanding the arts within the extraordinary context of Headlands as a Park Partner with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Because of our environment, unique opportunities exist for Headlands interdisciplinary public programs to add considerably to the vitality, understanding, and appreciation of the resources of the Golden Gate National Park.

Headlands offers a unique campus to meet the needs of a diverse, international community of contemporary artists. We strive to provide a compelling, stimulating environment for our residents while offering high-quality, innovative programming in all areas of cultural development.

Headlands’ vision is to serve as a world-class center for creative experiences, research and exchange for its AIRS and the general public at large. Headlands strives to impact the artists and the communities we serve by supporting the highest level of process based exploration, dialogue and critical thinking. By supporting cross-cultural, international, and
interdisciplinary exchange, advances in knowledge and artistic understanding will be generated, documented, and distributed, to broaden our reach through the community. For more information, please visit http://www.headlands.org.