Executive Director Full Time

Barre Opera House – The dreams of over a century thrive on our stage. Join us and lead an enduring institution into the future!

Beautifully restored over generations, the Barre Opera House has stood for over a century in celebration of the performing arts in our community and throughout Central Vermont. Our founders understood that a vibrant performing arts facility was vital as a shared gathering space for a growing and diverse community. This remains our purpose today.

The Barre Opera House was built in 1899 in the center of Barre, Vermont, reflecting the history and accomplishments of the area’s granite industry and its artisans. During the pandemic years, the Opera House was lovingly restored to modern performance standards. With a seating capacity of 650 guests, It hosts over 75 events per year, including a wide variety of contemporary live music performances, performing arts education programs, and private and community events.

What we’re looking for: We seek an Executive Director with experience in theater management to grow our reputation as a premiere performing arts space.  The right candidate should have knowledge of a wide range of music (rock, jazz, folk, and R&B) in order to continue providing excellent and popular performances. The candidate would be responsible for facility management and comfortable handling emergency situations.  They will be eager to make the performing arts accessible to all who wish to share in this transformative experience. Our Executive Director will be one who enjoys people and is inspired by the values of community-based performing arts and the historical relevance of the space itself. Guided by our strategic plan, and in collaboration with our Board of Directors, they will use their love of our contemporary genre of performance and history to act as the public face of the institution and prepare the opera house for important work ahead.

The right candidate will have:

•  At least 3 years of experience leading or in a senior management position in a performing arts facility of a similar size and scope.
• Experience working with a board of directors (not for profit preferred) and demonstrated experience managing a public-facing       organization with an eye to leadership strategy, community relationship building, grant acquisition, and advancement.
• Well-honed experience with both long-range planning and daily tactical decision-making in the areas of operations, people, performer interactions, and financial management.
• Demonstrated experience with seasonal programming, creative talent acquisition, contract negotiation, and event logistics.
• No problem working weekends and being present for performance nights (which are shared with other staff).
• Our work week is Wednesday to Tuesday. Our weekend is generally Sunday and Monday.

What we offer: At Barre Opera House, our Board offers the commitment to listen thoughtfully to your insights, recommendations, and concerns. We will offer support and suggestions during moments of shifting priorities, and the professional respect the position deserves. More tangibly, we include the following total compensation package:

• Annual salary ranges from $68,000 – $73,000 based on experience. The position does not pay overtime.
• $7,500 annually toward a medical plan.
• Comprehensive paid time off.
• A staff of 2.5 knowledgeable and dedicated colleagues and a solid group of community volunteers.

The Barre Opera House represents a diverse community and welcomes qualified leaders who bring a diversity of backgrounds, experience, training, and perspectives to this institution. For more information and a full job description please click the web icon link above and see About/Employment Opportunities.

Given the nature of this position, both a resume and a cover letter are required.

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