The Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools is currently accepting applications for a full-time (1.0 FTE) Director of the Performing Arts Center.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree. (Arts or Theatre Management preferred)
2. Experience: Minimum 2 years in a Performing Arts Center and/or arts/venue management preferred.
a. Management of the Performing Arts Center shared with the School District is ideal
b. Assembling, Contracting, and Marketing of full seasons of performing events is ideal
c. Working knowledge of theatrical and technical system operations is ideal
3. Ability to work flexible hours and weekends.
4. Year-round availability on a weekly basis.
5. Strong Public Relations skills preferred. 6. Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable.
REPORTS TO: Director of Technology
JOB GOAL:
To manage and oversee the WRPS Performing Arts Center (PAC) facilities that include the Lincoln High School Performing Arts Center and the Wisconsin Rapids Area Middle School Auditorium by providing access to these facilities to the schools, the District, and the community in accordance with District educational standards and Board policies.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
1. Superior interpersonal, oral presentation, and written communication skills
2. Ability to meet deadlines and organize, prioritize, self-direct, and work both independently and cooperatively
3. Broad knowledge and experience of event planning, client/account service, and public relations/marketing/advertising
4. Working knowledge and practical use of computer programs and communication tools, including, but not limited to: a. Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace b. Email c. Widely used social media (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) d. Performing arts relevant websites and/or software applications
5. Ability to apply common sense understanding to both direct and carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form
6. Ability to understand and calculate figures and amounts such as event-related costs, variable labor, and operational expense components. Ability to use mathematical skills where necessary to effectively carry out the duties and responsibilities of this position
7. Ability to practice exceptional time management in a fast-paced environment
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Administrative:
1. Provide and demonstrate clear vision, leadership, direction, and energy to the entire WRPS performing arts community.
2. Establish/Lead/Manage all events and program-related marketing plans and marketing activities, including, but not limited to:
a. Planning and facilitating comprehensive branding, marketing, and promotions for the District’s Arts programs and services, and developing materials and publications consistent with the WRPS brand image to expose the public to all the event offerings and build public confidence in its Arts programs and operations.
b. Serve as the key contact for communications and media releases with major media outlets (television, radio, newspaper), social media, email campaigns and notifications, and any direct mail.
c. Initiate and manage all PAC social media accounts and the PAC website.
d. Provide internal communications for WRPS (announcements, calendars, etc.) as related to the PAC facilities.
e. Create and provide advertisements for newspapers, posters, and other electronic and print media as needed.
3. Maintain active membership in and serve as the WRPS delegate to conventions, seminars, and performing arts-related conferences sponsored by the Wisconsin Presenters Network, Midwest Arts and other applicable organizations
4. Recruit/Hire/Train/Manage all appropriate PAC dedicated “managerial” volunteer or paid staff.
5. Provide direct supervision and oversight of the WRPS PAC Technical Director.
6. Oversee all box office affairs and Front of House operations (lobby, ticket office, etc.
7. Responsible for the coordination and scheduled use of WRPS PAC facilities by users from Lincoln High School, WRAMS, other schools in the District, Central Office, and the great Central Wisconsin community.
8. Negotiate community PAC facilities use rental contracts and agreements per Board policies, procedures, and operating guidelines.
9. Develop new and maintain existing fundraising campaigns - Initiate rapport-building and build relationships with current and future PAC sponsors, donors, and supporters.
10. Explore and create a WRPS PAC Foundation for the purposes of sustainability funding.
11. Maintain an active and accurate inventory of all facilities, equipment, and supplies for the purpose of providing security of tools, equipment, supplies, props, sets, box office computer equipment and supplies, and any item considered property of the WRPS PAC facilities.
12. Develop and implement a PAC Fee structure that is current and reflects current industry standards.
13. Prepare and deliver a wide variety of documented materials for the purpose of administrative decision making and establishment of “best practice” protocols (i.e., plans, budgets, funding requests, reports, analyses, recommendations, procedures, maintenance schedules, PAC’s technical and equipment inspections)
14. Maintain professional and positive relationships with all stakeholders and collaborate successfully to maximize WRPS PAC facility usage while addressing both students’ and the community’s arts-related facility needs. 15. Create a plan to provide “internship” opportunities for high school student(s) that allows for increased educational and real-life opportunities
Operational:
1. Strategic planning and marketing activities for WRPS events and programs at the PAC facilities.
2. Soliciting/Coordinating/Marketing rental use of the PAC facilities.
3. Recruiting/Vetting/Leading the hiring process and management of future volunteer or paid staff positions for the technical, box office, marketing, and front of the house areas
4. Performing a variety of administrative activities to research, plan, develop, promote, and maximize the PAC’s use while managing to an approved budget
5. Involvement in the creation and oversight of a calendar/season of events for the PAC that coordinates WRPS, as well as rental activities/events.
OTHER DUTIES: Perform other tasks and responsibilities related to the position as directed by the Director of Technology, Superintendent or the Lincoln High School Principal.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The usual working environment for this position is an auditorium and may include all areas of the facility. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. Duties include a mix of on-site labor, office work, and self-directed remote work. Candidates must be able to lift and move heavy equipment (up to 50-100 pounds) and work at heights and in tight spaces.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. In an 8-hour period, must stand or walk 7 ½ hours (unrestricted).
2. Must use hands for grasping, pushing & pulling, fine manipulations.
3. Must be able to bend, twist, squat, climb (stairs & ladders), reach.
4. Must be able to frequently lift, pull, and push an excess of 50 pounds. Must be able to lift a maximum of 50 pounds above the head.
5. Must be able to move AV, sound, and/or lighting equipment, etc.
6. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: This is a year-round position with salary, fringe benefits, and other conditions established by the Board of Education. Modifications to the daily schedule to accommodate tasks performed beyond the school day will be arranged with the Director of Technology.
EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be in accordance with the provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluation of non-union, non-administrative personnel.
By joining our team you'll become part of a supportive, collaborative team that prioritizes student success through collaboration and teaming. Our district values continuous growth! We offer time every Monday in which staff participate in Professional Learning Communities. In addition, we have scheduled professional development days throughout the year, a robust mentor program, and optional indistinct professional development offerings throughout the year.
Located in the scenic city of Wisconsin Rapids and the surrounding areas, our district offers an exceptional work-life balance. Enjoy outdoor activities around our beautiful lakes, extensive walking and biking paths, snowmobile trails, and nearby golf courses.