Executive Director

Center for Maine Contemporary Art

Executive Director 

Opportunity to envision and present contemporary art exhibitions 

and lead the next phase of advancement of the Center

The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) seeks an Executive Director to lead the next chapter of the Center’s development. In 2016 the CMCA relocated to Rockland Maine and built a new facility designed by world-renowned architect Toshiko Mori. The 12,000 sq. ft. building includes 5,500 sq. ft. of galleries dedicated to exhibitions of contemporary art by artists connected to Maine. There is a staff of 8 plus 6 seasonal part-time and an annual budget of $700,000. The mission of the CMCA is to advance contemporary art in Maine through direct engagement with artists and the public, creating exceptional exhibitions, education and other programs that tell the ongoing story of contemporary art in Maine and the transformative power of the art of our time. The Board of Trustees of the CMCA seeks an Executive Director with deep knowledge in contemporary art, museum or art-center best practices, exhibition programming and curation. They seek a visionary leader, creative risk-taker and networker with solid management and fundraising skills to grow the donor base, expand membership and audiences. Build on the significant national reputation of the Center and establish lasting bridges between the artists of Maine and the contemporary art world. 

Overview of Job Responsibilities

The Executive Director is responsible for the management and operation of the CMCA including budgeting, staff, fundraising and oversight of the development, curation and presentation of exhibitions and related programs. Special emphasis will be placed on fundraising, growing support, building audiences and membership, and special seasonal events that generate engagement and revenue. Ensuring the exhibitions and related programs adhere to the highest standards of excellence is essential to the mission of CMCA. This is a hands-on position working with a small but dedicated staff. 

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skills 

• Minimum 5 years of experience working in a senior leadership role in an art museum or art center.

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, Master’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience. 

• Proven fundraising ability with evidence of successful donor relations, grant writing and funded projects.

• Evidence of building effective relationships with staff, donors, artists and the community.

• Deep understanding of contemporary art to effectively lead and collaborate. 

• Curatorial experience developing and presenting exhibitions.

• Demonstrated commitment to education, and to on-line platforms and social media.

• Collaborator, able to delegate and participate, to lead and support.