Executive Director

ORGANIZATION

Create Birmingham’s mission is to invest in economic development in the nonprofit and commercial creative sectors including performing arts, visual arts and crafts, culture and heritage, media and film, design, and culinary arts. As the only agency in the region exclusively devoted to the creative industries, it is Create Birmingham’s privilege to collaborate with individuals, businesses, and organizations to identify opportunities, overcome barriers, and strengthen communities.

The Create Birmingham Executive Director (ED) is responsible for advancing the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and long‑term sustainability of the organization. Working in partnership with the Board of Directors, the ED provides visionary leadership, oversees daily operations, ensures financial stewardship, leads fundraising and community engagement efforts, develops and supports a high‑performing staff team, and ensures the effective delivery of programs and services.

As the organization’s primary ambassador, the ED builds relationships with creatives, funders, community leaders, and civic partners while fostering growth in Birmingham’s creative economy and strengthening the organization’s impact throughout the community.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Directors.
• Cultivate strategic partnerships with public, private, philanthropic, and community stakeholders to advance organizational goals.
• Identify emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges impacting Birmingham’s creative economy and nonprofit sector.
• Ensure organizational resources are aligned with strategic priorities and community needs.

Fiscal Responsibility

• Ensure the financial stability, sustainability, and long‑term viability of the organization.
• Develop annual operating and capital budgets for board approval and oversee budget execution.
• Maintain sound financial controls, policies, and reporting practices consistent with nonprofit best practices and compliance requirements.
• Steward organizational assets and ensure resources are used effectively, responsibly, and in accordance with donor intent.

Donor Cultivation & Engagement

• Serve as the chief fundraiser and lead relationship manager for major donors, foundations, corporations, and public funding entities.
• Build and maintain relationships with key community stakeholders and find opportunities for deeper collaborations.
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to advance fundraising goals and strengthen donor engagement.
• Ensure timely and meaningful donor recognition, communication, and impact reporting.

Employee Engagement & Development

• Recruit, retain, develop, and evaluate a small but high‑performing and mission‑driven team.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative organizational culture.
• Establish clear performance expectations, accountability measures, and professional development opportunities for staff.
• Provide the team with the necessary support, work environment and resources to help them succeed.

Programming & Service Delivery

• Ensure programs and services effectively advance the organization’s strategic priorities and respond to the needs of the community.
• Oversee grant‑funded program implementation and compliance with funding requirements.
• Communicate program impact and outcomes to stakeholders, funders, and the Board of Directors.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and key operational partnerships.

The ideal ED will have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible leadership experience within a mission‑driven organization. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of strategic…