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Artistic Director Jobs in Winnetka, IL (NOW HIRING)

Music Theater Works

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Managing Director

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Producing Artistic Director Status: Full-time, exempt Salary Range: Expected salary range: beginning at $65,000, with flexibility based on experience, plus benefits package. Position Summary The ...

Joffrey Ballet

Rehearsal Director & Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

This position works closely with fellow Rehearsal Directors, Artistic and Music Staff, General Manager, Company Manager, Production Manager, Stage Managers, Academy Staff, Visiting Artists, and ...

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Bartender

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

Complete other duties as assigned by the Audience Services Director, Executive Director, or Artistic Director Qualifications: * Be at least 21 years of age * 1-3 years' prior bartending experience ...

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Artistic Director information

See Winnetka, IL salary details

$46.6K

$127.6K

$153.5K

How much do artistic director jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for artistic director in Winnetka, IL is $127,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,800.00 and $133,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Artistic Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Artistic Director, you need a strong background in the arts, creative vision, leadership experience, and often a relevant degree in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with production management software, budgeting tools, and industry-standard editing or design programs is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and organizational skills set outstanding Artistic Directors apart. These abilities are crucial for shaping artistic direction, managing teams, and ensuring successful and innovative productions.

How does an Artistic Director collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Artistic Directors work closely with a variety of departments, including production, marketing, development, and education teams. They regularly communicate with these groups to ensure that the artistic vision aligns with logistical, promotional, and financial considerations. This collaboration often involves participating in meetings, giving creative input on marketing materials, and coordinating schedules and resources for performances or exhibitions. Successful Artistic Directors foster strong, open relationships across departments to create cohesive and impactful programming.

What is an Artistic Director?

An Artistic Director is a senior leader responsible for guiding the creative vision and direction of an arts organization, such as a theater, dance company, or gallery. They select productions, oversee artistic programming, and often collaborate with artists, directors, and designers to bring projects to life. In addition to shaping the artistic strategy, Artistic Directors may be involved in casting, budgeting, and community outreach. Their work ensures that the organization's artistic goals align with its mission and audience expectations.

What is the difference between Artistic Director vs Creative Director?

AspectArtistic DirectorCreative Director
CredentialsTypically requires a background in arts, theater, or related fields; often with experience in production or performanceRequires a background in design, branding, or advertising; often with experience in visual or digital media
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in arts organizations, theaters, or cultural institutionsPrimarily in advertising agencies, media companies, or branding firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in arts, theater, dance, and cultural sectorsUsed in marketing, advertising, and media industries

The main difference is that Artistic Directors focus on the artistic vision and programming of arts organizations, while Creative Directors oversee the overall creative strategy and branding in marketing and media. Both roles require creative expertise but serve different industry needs.

More about Artistic Director jobs
What job categories do people searching Artistic Director jobs in Winnetka, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Artistic Director jobs in Winnetka, IL are:
What cities near Winnetka, IL are hiring for Artistic Director jobs? Cities near Winnetka, IL with the most Artistic Director job openings:
Artistic Director jobs near you

Managing Director

Music Theater Works

Wilmette, IL • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Managing Director

Reports to: Producing Artistic Director

Status: Full-time, exempt

Salary Range: Expected salary range: beginning at $65,000, with flexibility based on experience, plus benefits package.

Position Summary

The Managing Director brings Music Theater Works’ mission to life behind the scenes, working side-by-side with the Producing Artistic Director to support bold, joyful musical theater. As the organization’s chief administrative leader, the Managing Director guides fundraising, marketing, finances, and community relationships, building the infrastructure that allows great art to flourish.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

•Partner with the Producing Artistic Director on strategic planning, season planning, and overall organizational vision.

•Oversee day-to-day business operations, including budget and financial management, business relationships, human resources, and administrative functions.

•Manage staff and ensure clear communication across departments.

•Implement and monitor organizational policies and procedures.

Manage relationships with North Shore Center (performance venue) including subscription processing, billing, ticket set up and reporting.

Finance & Governance

•Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Producing Artistic Director and Board Treasurer.

•Oversee financial reporting, cash flow, and compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements along with contracting business management team.

Advancement

•Work with the Director of Advancement and Producing Artistic Director on leading fundraising initiatives including annual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and special events.

•Alongside Director of Advancement and Producing Artistic Director, build and maintain relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners.

•Collaborate with the Producing Artistic Director, and Director of Advancement on cultivating supporters and patrons.

•Serve as a liaison to the Board of Directors, Advisory Board and Emeritus Board, supporting board development and governance best practices.

Marketing & Audience Development

•Oversee marketing, communications, and public relations strategies to build brand awareness and grow audiences.

•Supervise staff and contractors responsible for marketing, social media, and ticketing.

•Ensure cohesive messaging that reflects the organization’s artistic and community values.

Community Engagement

•Represent Music Theater Works in the community, building partnerships with civic, cultural, and educational organizations.

•Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all organizational practices.

Qualifications

•Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in nonprofit arts management or a related field.

•Proven success in donor and patron relations, financial management, and staff leadership.

•Strong understanding of marketing, audience development, and community engagement.

•Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.

•Experience with Quickbooks and Blackbaud preferred.

•Passion for musical theater and the performing arts.

Company Description

Music Theater Works is a resident professional not-for-profit music theater in Skokie, Illinois, founded in 1980. The mission is: to present works for the musical stage, creating a bridge for all audiences from classic works to the present day; to develop the next generation of theater professionals and patrons; and to engage the community in music, theater, and the arts.
The company presents both full and innovative productions of standard musical theater repertoire and new works, as well as historic repertoire like operetta, using staging, technology and audience engagement in new ways. YouthREACH, the company’s growing program for young people, covers all aspects of theater from performance to technology. Creative collaborations with arts and community partners are a vital part of the artistic and social approach for all programs.
Music Theater Works is committed to inclusion and diversity, from show selection to casting to creative teams, to engaging with the community to create a more responsive, inclusive, and equitable company. Music Theater Works’ values infuse all aspects of the company:
We care about what aspect of the world we are putting on stage.
We are additive to the cultural landscape.
We support artists over time and through multiple projects.
Music is a vital connection to our artistic image of theater.
The art we produce is not separable from the communities in which we exist.
We support equity and diversity on and off stage.