Job Description

ABOUT THE ACADEMY

Founded in 1825, the National Academy of Design promotes art and architecture in America. As the leading honorary society for visual artists and architects in the United States, we advocate for the arts as a tool for education, celebrate the role of artists and architects in public life, and serve as a catalyst for cultural conversations that propel society forward. As it looks ahead to its 200th anniversary in 2025, the National Academy of Design is at an especially exciting moment of reinvention and possibility. In spring 2023, the National Academy moved into a new 7800-sf exhibition space in Chelsea that reaffirms the Academy’s commitment  to the artists and architects who are at the core of its mission. The new space will enable the Academy to present a vibrant schedule of exhibitions and programs that explore critical issues in contemporary art, architecture, and culture.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The National Academy of Design seeks a dynamic, inspired, and thoughtful Director of Programs to join its small, experienced team during an exciting transitional time. With the launch of the new home in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, we are looking ahead to a fall grand opening celebration to include a major exhibition, public programs, and fundraising and social events. 

The Director of Programs will be responsible for researching, developing, implementing, and evaluating innovative programming, including lectures, panel discussions, symposia, screenings, performances, and more, to redefine and reestablish the Academy’s presence among peer institutions, as well as the greater arts and cultural landscape, of both New York city and nationally. This is a full-time, exempt position. 

The responsibilities of the Director of Programs consist of the following:

Programming (80%)

• In accordance with our mission, conceive of and realize all National Academy visual art and architecture programmatic offerings; for example, digital programs and podcasts, lectures and dialogues, workshops and performances, convenings and symposia.
• Establish metrics, goals, and strategies for audience engagement and interpretation across multiple platforms, both digital and in-person.
• Work with NA Affairs department and individual NAs, as well as leaders in the fields of visual arts, architecture, and education, to organize relevant, responsive, and timely programs.
• Plan and implement the Abbey Mural Prize cycle including management of the application process, jury, and related programming; work with the Communications Department on marketing and communications for the award and application process.
• Reach inter-generational and diverse audiences with a warm and accessible approach to learning and engagement.
• Lead events, manage various projects simultaneously, and collaborate across departments to achieve desired results.
• Establish, develop, and maintain relationships with schools, partner organizations, National Academicians, and other related groups. 
• Represent the Academy within the national and international dialogue about public programs, community engagement, and inclusivity and access in museums.
• Along with the Communications Manager, help to design and implement social media campaigns for the Programs Department.

Object-Based Initiatives (10%)

• Collaborate with the Chief Curator to develop interpretive materials accompanying exhibitions and collection presentations, both in print and digital forms.
• Convene and lead working groups to re-think permanent collection object interpretation.

Administrative Duties (10%)

• Oversee all administrative responsibilities of the Programs Department.
• In conjunction with the Development Department, assist in the cultivation and solicitation of private and grant funding to support programmatic initiatives.
• Develop department budget, priorities, and standards.
• Manage a full-time Programs Assistant, as well as an annual summer intern.  
• Represent the National Academy at events and oversight meetings as needed. 

Qualifications

• A background and/or education in art history, museum education, or related field.
• 5-7 years of experience in public programming, or related experience, as well as a proven track record of success in realizing culturally-meaningful events and building collaborative relationships.
• Exceptional project-management and event coordination skills.
• Knowledge of best practices in public programming/lifelong learning research.
• A genuine interest in public programming, locally and globally.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

SALARY 

The salary for this position is $85,000-$100,000 annually and includes an excellent, comprehensive benefits package.

LOCATION

Full-time employees of the National Academy are required to work in our offices in New York (519 W 26th St) at least three days per week, are required to attend in-person staff and board meetings, and must be available to attend in-person events and programs as required. This policy is subject to change based on the needs of the organization.

HIRING STATEMENT

The National Academy of Design is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage women, veterans, people with disabilities, people of color, and gender nonconforming candidates to apply. The National Academy of Design is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or political affiliation.

How to Apply

Job Categories: Equal Opportunities. Job Types: Full-Time. Salaries: 80,000 - 100,000.

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