Executive Director
- Posted
- 2 days ago
- Employment type
- Full-Time
- Location
- Los Angeles
- Closing date
About this organization
Since 1966, The Writers Guild Foundation has been the premier Hollywood resource for emerging writers and entertainment lovers. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Foundation’s mission is to preserve and promote the history and craft of writing for the screen. Along with operating the Shavelson-Webb Library and Archives in Los Angeles, The Foundation hosts public events featuring notable TV and film writers as well as community outreach programs connecting writers with underserved communities.
About this job
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for coordinating the overall operations, financials and strategy for the organization. This hybrid role will improve fund development and revitalize the strategic plan and make sure the proper staff and programs are in place to further the mission. The Executive Director is a collaborative leader, equipped to effectively engage the senior staff and Board in refining the vision for the organization.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The Executive Director of The Writers Guild Foundation should be a dynamic, high-energy leader who thrives in a fast-paced, multifaceted environment. They should bring a genuine passion for TV and film while maintaining a strategic, mission-driven focus rather than aspiring to be a TV writer themselves. This person should be adept at navigating diverse professional settings, from collaborating with union leaders and community partners to engaging with industry professionals and philanthropic stakeholders. A strong sense of humor, engaging presence, and visionary mindset are essential qualities for excelling in this role.
The ideal candidate must be flexible, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple high-level responsibilities. As the leader of a small but highly effective team, they should be comfortable "scrambling" when necessary and guiding the organization across multiple disciplines efficiently. Experience in nonprofit leadership is highly desirable, particularly within arts, education, or media-focused organizations. Additionally, they should be a confident and strategic leader, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation while ensuring the organization's continued growth and impact. The ability to build strong relationships, champion storytelling, and engage in meaningful conversations with writers, industry leaders, and community partners is central to the role.
Ultimately, this individual should be a versatile, forward-thinking executive who can lead the Writers Guild Foundation into its next chapter, expanding its reach and impact while maintaining its commitment to supporting writers and storytelling in the entertainment industry.
Roles & responsibilities
Organization Strategy and Leadership
• Partner with the Board and staff to ensure effective operations that achieve the overall mission and vision of the organization.
• Oversee all programs, services, and operations at the organization, ensuring they contribute to the mission and priorities of the organization.
• Support operations and overall administration by serving as a liaison between the Board and staff and supporting the Board to fulfill their governance function.
• Manage the team to deliver effective and efficient programs, supporting the organization’s mission and principles.
• Foster an organizational culture that attracts and retains a dynamic staff of top-quality employees.
Fundraising
• Lead both the development committee and staff in creating and implementing a fundraising strategy, inclusive of major donors, corporations, foundations, events, and other diverse and creative revenue streams.
• Collaborate with the development team to increase government, grant and foundation funding.
• Develop strategic alliances to increase the visibility of the organization’s programs.
Financial Management
• Oversee all financial matters of the organization, including maintaining budgets, approving and reviewing expenditures, and developing financial plans and procedures.
• Provide the Board with financial reports and prepare the annual budget for Board review prior to the start of each new fiscal year.
• Ensure compliance on contractual obligations and agreements.
• Lead financial planning, forecasting, and analytical activities; ensure alignment of financial plan with vision and strategy.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s Degree in Nonprofit Management, Business or Public Administration, or commensurate experience preferred.
A minimum of 5-years’ experience in a leadership role in the nonprofit sector.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, including individual giving, major gifts, grants and foundations.
Demonstrated ability to manage and lead staff and work harmoniously and openly with a Board of Directors.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience overseeing financial matters, including audits, reporting, and budgeting.
Experience in program operations and management as it relates to strategy, implementation, compliance, and reporting.
To apply
Located in Los Angeles, the Executive Director role is primarily in the office with some flexibility. The salary range is $155,000-$175,000. The Writers Guild Foundation offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid holiday, sick time, and PTO, medical, dental, vision, EAP, a flexible spending account (FSA), and employee discounts. This job offers a traditional union pension where the employer fully funds the plan, employees vest in just four years, and retirees receive a guaranteed lifetime benefit based on employer contributions—no employee contributions required.
The Writers Guild Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender orientation, or different ability.
Applicants needing accommodation for any part of the application process may contact Envision Consulting at 626.889.7905 to request and arrange for assistance.