Executive Director

ORGANIZATION AND POSITION OVERVIEW

 

Milwaukee Film (MKE Film), internationally recognized for curating and executing a world-class film festival, is seeking an executive director to lead the organization to its next level of growth and success. The organization’s next executive director will be a visionary leader who shares that passion and possesses the ability to articulate and implement a clear, strategic vision for the organization’s future.

 

Globally, MKE Film has a proven record of creating and enriching meaningful coalitions and connections which support the evolution and success of filmmaking and immersive film experiences. Since 2009, the Milwaukee Film Festival has brought together leading, internationally renowned, filmmakers alongside tens of thousands of film fans to celebrate the magic of film and the power of cinema. For the last decade, the Milwaukee Film Festival has been recognized throughout the industry as one of the top ten in the country.

 

Locally, MKE Film has rescued and is the proud operator of the magnificent Oriental Theatre and The Downer Theatre, two unique historic cinemas providing unparalleled environments in which to learn and grow. The organization is dedicated to entertaining, educating, and engaging our local and regional communities through the creation of outstanding cinematic experiences.

 

The impact and legacy of storytelling is woven into every aspect of MKE Film. The organization’s leadership recognizes the importance of fostering a healthy, vibrant community for all, as well as the significance of lifelong learning through innovative, unparalleled opportunities.

 

Requirements

 

• A deep commitment to the fulfillment of the MKE Film’s mission of creating world-class cinematic experiences that convene our diverse communities and catalyze positive change in the world.

• Thorough understanding of non-profit organizations with a keen eye and passion for the film industry and the arts.

• A deep understanding of film festival operations and the larger film festival ecosystem.

• Business operation experience including strategic planning, financial controls, and marketing creativity to maximize organizational returns.

• Experience in facilitating local, national and international coalitions aimed at enhancing industry success and operational excellence.

• Exemplary public speaking and media relations experience.

• Adaptive and flexible leadership style with a belief that teamwork and cooperation are essential components of success.

• A minimum of five years of senior leadership experience as part of a diverse team.

• Proven ability to cultivate and nurture a positive work environment and organizational culture.

• Record of success in communications and brand awareness programs.

• Extensive experience in fiscal leadership and accountability, including organization-wide budget planning and management.

• Proven fundraising capabilities and strong donor relationship management experience.

 

Responsibilities & Qualifications

 

• Develop an ongoing vision for the future of MKE Film as a leader in the film festival space.

• Represent organization in appropriate film-related networks and activities to ensure MKE Film is consistently a leader in the industry.

• Participate in and network with appropriate civic groups to promote MKE Film and its activities.

• Create and execute two film festivals and other special events annually.

• Serve as principal external-facing spokesman for the organization.

• Manage and improve organizational top line growth – both contributed (annual support, major gifts, grants, and planned gift) and earned admission, membership, events, special screenings, and merchandise shop) revenue.

• Create, lead and inspire teams to meet short and long-term organizational goals and priorities.

• Create, support and oversee a strong internal fund-development program.

• Oversee continual expansion of organization’s diverse membership base.

• Lead recruiting, hiring, and training of all staff with ultimate responsibility for maintaining a healthy and productive organizational culture.

• Create and maintain a positive and constructive working relationship with the organization’s Board of Directors.

 

Instructions for Applicant

 

Interested applicants can please assemble and email all items below, combined into one document, to MKEFilm@leadingtransitions.com no later than 1:00 p.m. CT November 1, 2024: A letter describing your qualifications for this position, your interest in Milwaukee Film’s mission; A detailed and updated resume, and the names of, your relationship to, and the contact information for, three professional references.

 

• References will not be contacted until a candidate has been notified.

• All offers of employment are contingent upon clear results of thorough background and reference checks.

• All inquiries about, and interactions with, candidates are kept in strict confidence.

• This position will remain open until filled.