Executive Director

Pilchuck Glass School is seeking an exceptional leader to shape the next phase of this institution's rich history. The Executive Director will provide inspiring and strategic leadership to the organization, while overseeing the day-to-day operations in a way that ensures continued mission delivery and organizational effectiveness. The Executive Director will serve as the CEO of the organization, and is a partner to the School's Artistic Director.

Founded in 1971 by glass artist Dale Chihuly and patrons Anne Gould Hauberg and John H. Hauberg, Pilchuck Glass School has become the largest, most comprehensive educational center in the world for artists working in glass. Pilchuck's artistic and educational programs take place on a serene 54-acre wooded campus 50 miles north of Seattle. The campus features two hot-glass shops, a studio building, kiln shop, coldworking studio, flat shop for neon and flameworking, wood and metal shops, and a glass-plate printmaking studio. Nestled into the wooded hillsides are numerous other facilities, including a lodge (with lecture area, library, kitchen, and dining room), a gallery, administrative offices, and residential buildings for faculty, artists in residence, students, and staff. The organization's main administrative offices are based in Seattle; the rural campus is the site of all programmatic activity.

The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with strong organizational, strategic, operational, fundraising, communication and staff management skills. This individual must possess a true passion for the mission and programs of Pilchuck; someone who has a deep appreciation for, and understanding of, the artistic process and working with artists. Ideally this person will have direct knowledge of glass art, but may also have developed their interest through other art forms.

Other qualifications and characteristics include:

Proven leadership skills and business management experience.
Ability to work with an artistic director and the artistic process, particularly within an atelier setting.
A track record of successful resource development, including acquisition of major (6-figure) gifts. Capital campaign experience is highly preferred.
Proven experience developing and implementing a strategic plan.
Experience identifying and securing partnerships to further an organization's strategy.
Dynamic and charismatic style that inspires internal and external stakeholders and that motivates increased interest and investment in the School.
Experience in forging new, and deepening existing, relationships with multiple and highly diverse constituents; the ability to engage and be credible with various audiences.
Truly exceptional written and oral communication, as well as, listening skills.
Strong knowledge of budgeting, internal controls and finance.
Unquestionable integrity and a commitment to professional excellence.

Please submit all suggestions, nominations, and applications in confidence to:

Michele Counter
Principal, Nonprofit Practice
DHR International
Phone: 919-465-9354
mcounter@dhrinternational.com

Download the full job description here.