Senior Director of Artistic and Production; SDAP

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please include a resume, and cover letter.

UCLA's Center for the Art of Performance (CAP UCLA) is an internationally recognized public arts organization dedicated to the advancement of contemporary performing arts by leading artists from around the world in all disciplines: dance, music, spoken word, and theater; as well as emerging digital, collaborative, and cross‑art platforms. CAP UCLA supports the creation, presentation, and critical dialogues vital to the innovation and expressive potential of artists who inform the dynamic and evolving heritage of contemporary performance.

Through an annual season of performing arts and extensive community‑engagement initiatives and events, CAP UCLA advances the importance of art in society by celebrating and deepening the connection between artist and audience.

UCLA's Center for the Art of Performance is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as Senior Director of Artistic and Production (SDAP), a senior role supporting the artistic vision and operations of an internationally recognized performing arts organization. Reporting to the Executive and Artistic Director of UCLA's Center for the Art of Performance (EAD), this position leads multi‑year artistic planning, oversees complex programming and budgets, and manages a multidisciplinary team delivering dozens of performances and initiatives each year.

The Senior Director of Artistic and Production (SDAP) combines curatorial leadership with operational and financial oversight, partners closely with development to support fundraising, and represents UCLA's Center for the Art of Performance across campus and within the global arts community. This role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced performing arts leader to shape bold, mission‑driven programming and make a lasting cultural impact at a premier public university.

* UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common.

Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.

• Broad and in‑depth knowledge of the performing arts across all genres, with an understanding of both national and international performing arts landscapes and their distinct operational requirements. (Required)
• Strong understanding of business law, contractual frameworks, and industry legalities, including the accurate preparation and interpretation of deal memos, technical riders, and contracts. (Required)
• Demonstrated financial acumen, including the ability to interpret financial data and reports, exercise sound judgment, and make informed recommendations that support strategic and operational decision‑making. (Required)
• Proven expertise in budget development and financial planning, including accurate projections based on historical data and future needs, tracking complex programming information, and preparing detailed budgetary analyses. (Required)
• Advanced analytical and technical proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Access, Word), databases, and the ability to synthesize complex data into clear observations and actionable recommendations. (Required)
• Skill in designing and implementing effective administrative and operational systems, including long‑range planning tools, operating schedules, and concise reporting mechanisms accessible to diverse audiences and leadership levels. (Required)
• Strong project management capabilities, including the ability to organize, conceptualize, and direct multiple projects simultaneously within a dynamic, complex work environment. (Required)
• Exceptional organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage changing priorities, frequent interruptions, conflicting deadlines, and simultaneous large‑scale and detail‑oriented tasks. (Required)
• Ability to build and sustain…