Manager of Public Programs and Performance

Position Summary

The Manager of Public Programs and Performance is responsible for developing, executing and evaluating a successful and balanced annual roster of strategic, mission-based, engagement-focused programs for adult audiences. This position reports to the Director of Education and oversees the Public Program and Performance Division which includes the Technical and Production Manager and Coordinator of Public Programs and works with programming staff and exhibition team to develop adult programs that embody Oklahoma Contemporary’s mission, enhance exhibitions and emphasize diversity, innovation, collaboration and a sense of community. In addition to public programs, this individual will implement the details of our performance partnerships, develop a limited number of performances that celebrate local and regional talent and explore themes from the exhibition. The Manager of Public Programs and Performance will also work with the Director and department to lay out a strategic year-to-year plan for community engagement and audience development. Most of the Oklahoma Contemporary programming takes place on Wednesday through Friday evenings and over the weekend; as such, this position will require a flexible schedule.

The primary objective of Oklahoma Contemporary’s programs and performances are to connect adult audiences to the institution and campus in meaningful and creative ways, contribute to increased attendance and expanded audiences locally and nationally, and support the institutional goal to serve as a cultural resource and destination for Oklahoma City, the state and beyond.

Essential Job Functions

• Confers with the Director of Education, programming staff and exhibition staff to identify and develop public programs with the support of the Coordinator of Public Programs
• Leads the development, supervision and evaluation of exhibition and contemporary art-related public programs and experiences including, but not limited to, lectures, symposia, films, gallery talks, free-art making experiences, performances, college programs and community days.
• Assists the Director of Education in the fulfillment of institutionally approved performance partnerships including but not limited to OKC Rep and Oklahoma City Ballet. Research and implement additional performances that directly relate to exhibitions or are developed to celebrate local talent and expand audiences, such as the Summer Music Series.
• Works with the cross-departmental calendar planning team to create thoughtful and sustainable seasonal programming calendars.
• Builds relationships and a strong network that includes local, regional and national artists, scholars, thinkers and professionals within the fields of art, art history, performance, film, design and architecture and other fields related to contemporary art.
• Cultivates strategic and sustainable partnerships with individuals, cultural organizations, academic institutions and community agencies to broaden awareness, support, resources and revenue for public programs and the institution.
• Manages the Technical and Production Manager and Coordinator of Public Programs and Performance to ensure smooth onsite event management including setup and take-down and visitor experience.
• Analyzes evaluation data and attendance numbers to determine prospective users, audiences and potential funding sources for programs and partnerships.
• Evaluates public programs and performances to assess quality and determine improvements needed in development and presentation of programs.
• Possesses strong decision-making capabilities and flexibility to accommodate many ideas and working styles.
• Works closely with the Director of Education and the Finance Department to draft the annual program budget and monitor expenses throughout the year, ensuring adherence to budget.
• Works with the Communications Department to produce key communications and promotional materials and shape the language used to describe programs and performances.
• Works with the Development Department to identify new and maximize current foundation, corporate and individual sponsorships and funding opportunities for public programs and performance. Writes programmatic grant and report copy as needed.
• Maintains current knowledge of contemporary art and museum programming, including the activities of peer organizations, emerging and established practices and trending topics in critical cultural discourses. Participates in national dialogues about public programs in museums/art centers.

Essential Job Requirements and Qualifications

• Minimum of three to five years of professional experience in program development, project management and/or event planning and promotion; experience working in the arts nonprofit cultural sector preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree preferred in studio art, design, art history, museum studies, art education or related field.
• Demonstrated ability to both envision and execute a broad range of public programs and activities inspired by the exhibitions on view and contemporary art and artistic practice.
• Confident public speaker, skilled writer and proven relationship builder.
• Highly organized with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks while managing time efficiently.
• Responsive to frequently shifting priorities and adaptive to change.
• Strong interest in working to develop Oklahoma Contemporary’s relationships with historically underrepresented populations.
• Crisis resilient and comfortable with navigating the unexpected.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office required; experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Asana and Tessitura is a plus; able to navigate or learn other platforms as needed.
• Fluency in English: speaking, reading and writing. Additional fluencies in Spanish or Vietnamese a plus.
• Positive and professional.

Limitations and Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Continued employment remains on an “at-will” basis. Nothing in this job description is to be construed as a contract of employment. All job duties are subject to change as business needs necessitate.

Other Requirements and Working Conditions

• Regular evening and weekend availability to accommodate the events and programs schedule.
• Our office is an open workspace with seated desks and an additional meeting room can be reserved.
• Use of a car required; legally registered and insured for daily use.
• Use of a computer/monitor, telephone and copier daily.
• Team environment with frequent group meeting participation.
• Physical requirements: Lifting/Carrying - heavy work may include routine lifting of a maximum weight of 30 lbs. - combination of sitting, standing, walking and driving on a frequent basis.
• Oklahoma Contemporary is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To Apply

Submit a cover letter and resume here.

Applications will be accepted until May 25, 2024. Unfortunately, because of the volume of applications we receive, we are not able to give status updates. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Salary commensurate with experience ($45,000 - $48,000); excellent benefits package, including healthcare, dental, vision and retirement plan.

About Oklahoma Contemporary
Oklahoma Contemporary is an inclusive center for the arts where people of all ages and backgrounds can experience art, encounter new ideas and ignite their creative potential. Through visual art exhibitions, performances, public programs, community-building initiatives, outdoor installations and special events, Oklahoma Contemporary creates opportunities for everyone to come together in celebration of contemporary culture and artistic expression. With year-round classes and seasonal youth camps across multiple disciplines, the arts center’s education programs encourage youth and adults to express their ideas across a variety of media and learn new skills. Oklahoma Contemporary believes that art is for everyone and places accessibility and education at the center of all programming. Admission to exhibitions is always free. Oklahoma Contemporary is a regional 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1989 by businessman and philanthropist Christian Keesee and Kirkpatrick Foundation Director Marilyn Myers.

Inclusion
Oklahoma Contemporary strives to demonstrate leadership by modeling excellence and best practices for inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We believe in the power of human creativity and value the opportunities for connection and learning that exist when cultures and communities come together in collaboration and understanding.

We commit to championing policies and practices that value diversity, foster cultural equity and create an accessible and inclusive environment. Oklahoma Contemporary does not discriminate based on race/ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, socioeconomic status, geography, citizenship status or religion. We recognize our strengths lie in the broad range of people who contribute their time and talents to our mission and are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive place for them to explore creativity.