DIRECTOR OF LEARNING INITIATIVES

Americans for the Arts,
13 August 2002, USA

The Organization Americans for the Arts is the nation's leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America. With a 40-year record of service, it is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Job Summary The Director of Learning Initiatives manages Americans for the Arts' professional development activities as related to the Programs & Services Department. This position is responsible for developing, implementing and managing a comprehensive and innovative program of education for the various stakeholders that make up the arts and community development field. These programs include but are not limited to our annual convention, preconferences, sector meetings, audioconferences, and regional meetings and a variety of other strategies to serve the needs of target markets and segments of the field such as local arts agency leaders, emerging and seasoned leaders, united arts funds, rural and small communities, and much more. The primary function of the position is to identify the educational needs and oversee the development and creation of educational programming. These programs include, but are not limited to annual convention, regional meetings, audioconferences and targeted programs. The Director works to identify new and creative ways to provide educational programming for the field. This effort includes the continued programming of a leadership initiative that provides such services as mentorships, convenings, and other professional development tools. Qualifications The Director of Learning Initiatives should possess the following background and skills * Minimum of 5 years working in the professional development field; * Knowledge and experience with developing and implementing innovative professional development programs; * Knowledge of speaker research, contracts and communication techniques; * Excellent writing and communication skills; * Demonstration of interest and experience in serving diverse populations; * Experience in working independently and within a team structure; * Experience in using a variety of technology features as communication tools (listservs, broadcast e-mails, etc.); * Demonstration of ability to network and develop valuable relationships within the arts field; and * Ability to balance a multitude of interests and demands at once.