Managing Director

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic leader with a strategic mindset and passion for the arts to guide Kahilu Theatre into its next chapter of creative growth and impact. The Managing Director (MD) is responsible for shaping strategic direction, overseeing artistic programming, ensuring financial sustainability, and managing daily operations. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on Kahilu and the community it serves. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the MD will collaborate closely with Kahilu’s staff, donors, and the local community to advance our mission: Making a place where community, creativity, and inspiration thrive.

 Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives in collaboration with the
• Establish long-term goals for Kahilu and regularly measure
• Guide Kahilu and its staff through creative growth and necessary
• Foster a strong and transparent working relationship with the
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for Kahilu, championing its mission, initiatives, and programming.

Operational Management:

• Oversee daily operations of Kahilu, ensuring efficient and effective use of the facility, staff, and contractors.
• Recruit, hire, support, and supervise staff, fostering a positive, collaborative, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• Ensure that the organization is effectively structured and adequately.

Financial Sustainability:

• Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and
• Reduce the reliance on contributed revenue by increasing earned income through ticket sales, event rentals, and novel revenue opportunities.
• Work closely with the Development Director to apply for grants, cultivate new donors, and steward existing relationships.

Artistic Programming:

• Oversee all aspects of artistic programming, scheduling a diverse and engaging season that appeals to a broad audience.
• Identify and experiment with alternative programming to attract new audiences and revenue streams.
• Build relationships with artists, producers, and other cultural

Community Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, civic leaders, local businesses, educational institutions, and other arts organizations.
• Develop and implement educational and outreach programs to engage diverse and underserved audiences.
• Promote Kahilu’s role as a community cultural

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of academic and work
• 5+ years of experience in a leadership role within the performing arts or a related industry, with a proven track record in managing budgets and leading teams.
• Strong background in non-profit arts management, including experience with theatre operations, fundraising, and community engagement.
• Experience managing an organization with a budget of similar size

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of theatre operations, including programming, scheduling, and technical requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage a diverse
• Proven experience in financial management, budgeting, and
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to effectively interact with board members, donors, staff, and the public.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage crises and quickly adapt to changing circumstances.

Personal Attributes:

• Passion for the performing arts and enhancing the cultural life of the
• Respect for and understanding of the complex cultural history of Hawai‘i.
• Ability to bring creative ideas and innovative approaches to theatre
• Capacity to handle high-pressure situations with with composure and resilience.

Compensation

The annual salary for this position ranges from $80,000 to $95,000. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance alongside generous paid time off.

Application Process

The application deadline is Friday, August 30.

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, a resume, and their salary requirements to jobs@kahilu.org with “Managing Director” in the subject line.

Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications and experience. Not all applicants will be selected for an interview. No phone calls, please.

Kahilu Theatre is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. For more information about us, please visit our website at www.kahilu.org.

Join us at Kahilu Theatre to be part of a thriving community where the arts come to life!

About Us

Kahilu Theatre is a vibrant multidisciplinary arts organization located in the historic town of Waimea (Kamuela) on the island of Hawai‘i (the Big Island). Our facility features a 484-seat main stage, a 75-seat black box venue, two art galleries, and a cutting-edge film program producing original content for Kahilu.TV. With an operating budget of approximately $1.5 million, we host a dynamic presenting season, community rentals and events, and comprehensive art education programs for youth.