Job Description

BACKGROUND:

Since its inception, Film Pittsburgh has been guided by the belief that film is a powerful visual medium that thrives in today’s digital era by transcending cultural boundaries and spurring positive change. A nationally-recognized 501(c)(3) organization, Film Pittsburgh presents independent films from around the world, deepening audiences’ understanding of various cultures, expanding acceptance, and recognizing our common humanity. Each year, we proudly present the Three Rivers Film Festival, Pittsburgh Shorts and Script Competition, ReelAbilities Pittsburgh, and JFilm festivals. Film Pittsburgh has become known for curating an extremely high caliber of films, including 30 Academy Award nominees and eight winners.

Mission Statement:

Film Pittsburgh presents independent films from around the world, deepening audiences’ understanding of various cultures, expanding acceptance, and recognizing our common humanity. 

Explore Our Work:

THE OPPORTUNITY:

The next Executive Director at Film Pittsburgh will lead the organization into a new era after being founder-led for nearly 25 years. Building on a legacy of four annual film festivals, two shorts competitions, a filmmaker conference, and a youth program alongside a dedicated team of film enthusiasts inside and outside the organization, the Executive Director will articulate a vision to sustain and expand the organization and ensure its operational and financial stability and sustainability.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director of Film Pittsburgh is the chief executive officer responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational management of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Directors and managing a staff of 10, the Executive Director ensures the successful execution of Film Pittsburgh’s mission to bring diverse perspectives to the region through the power of independent film.

The Executive Director will lead Film Pittsburgh’s operations, including strategy, fundraising, finance, administration, human resources, communications, community engagement, and programming. This individual will work closely with the Board of Directors to develop and implement strategic goals and initiatives, ensuring that Film Pittsburgh continues to thrive and grow while maintaining its stability and commitment to its values.

A key responsibility of the Executive Director will be to expand Film Pittsburgh’s visibility locally and nationally, build new partnerships, and lead fundraising efforts to secure the financial health of the organization. The Executive Director will also oversee a highly capable team and empower staff to achieve programmatic and organizational goals while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and creative work culture. They will play a critical role in ensuring that Film Pittsburgh not only remains a vibrant force in the regional arts community but also grows its national profile as a champion of independent film and social impact storytelling.

Reporting Relationships:

• The Executive Director reports to the Film Pittsburgh Board of Directors.
• The Executive Director manages all personnel, which includes paid employees, unpaid volunteers, interns, and independent contractors.

Abbreviated Job Description:

This abbreviated job description provides an overview of the position. Candidates who are invited to interview will be sent the full job description with the interview questions in advance of their scheduled interviews.

Development & Strategic Advancement:

• Fundraising : Lead and diversify Film Pittsburgh’s fundraising efforts, including annual campaigns, grant proposals, and corporate sponsorships. Cultivate relationships with sponsors, donors, and funders while overseeing grant compliance and fundraising databases.
• Strategic Planning : Support the development and execution of strategic plans in collaboration with the Board and staff, ensuring the alignment of annual goals and action plans.
• Reporting : Provide regular reports to the Board, ensuring they are informed on key organizational conditions and progress.

Operational Planning & Sustainability:

• Operations : Oversee day-to-day functions to ensure financial and staff effectiveness. Improve processes and maintain organizational integrity through standardized procedures and succession planning.
• Systems & Risk Management : Manage risks to staff, property, and reputation. Ensure proper insurance coverage and legal compliance across operations.

Fiscal Responsibility & Compliance:

• Create and manage the annual budget, ensuring compliance with financial policies and regulations. Provide financial statements and collaborate with the Finance Committee on key decisions.

Staff Management & Human Resources:

• Personnel Managemen t: Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and staff development. Conduct performance evaluations and manage contracts with consultants and vendors.
• Human Resources : Develop and maintain HR policies, job descriptions, and personnel records while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

Board Relations:

• Collaborate with the Board and its committees to provide updates and support decision-making. Work closely with the Board President to enhance board skills and effectiveness, building fundraising capacity through education and introductions.

Program Development & Management:

• Program Oversight : Lead the development and implementation of Film Pittsburgh programs. Explore new partnerships and initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission.
• Event Management : Oversee festival and event logistics, managing timelines, staffing, and resources. Ensure accessibility and engagement with stakeholders.

Community Outreach and Audience Development:

• Community Outreach : Serve as the primary spokesperson, cultivating relationships with funders and stakeholders to enhance Film Pittsburgh’s brand and community engagement.
• Audience Development : Lead the staff in promoting diversity and accessibility in programming, building inclusive relationships and gathering data to inform outreach strategies.

Strategic Communications:

• Oversee the development of annual marketing and communication strategies to increase visibility. Oversee branding, media relations, and social media, leveraging data to refine campaigns and enhance impact.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE:

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership and management skills, a deep knowledge of the film industry, and a passion for independent film as a tool for community engagement and cultural enrichment. They will bring entrepreneurial energy, operational acumen, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with filmmakers, funders, partners, and diverse audiences.

Required Qualifications:

• 7+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience including grant writing, major gift solicitations, mail and social media campaigns, and development of business sponsorship packages.
• 3+ years of senior management experience, including experience with nonprofit management.
• 3+ years of experience in organizational and programmatic budgeting and financial management.
• 3+ years of special event or film festival experience.
• Demonstrated experience setting transformational strategy and implementing organizational change.
• Demonstrated record of effectively leading a performance and outcomes-based organization and staff, preferably within an arts organization managing quality programs and data-driven program evaluation.
• Demonstrated ability to coach, manage, and develop high-performance teams to set and achieve strategic objectives.
• Prior success working with a Board of Directors, with the ability to cultivate new and existing board member relationships.
• Strong marketing, communications, and public relations experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures.
• Excellent public speaking and written communication skills, both in person and through technology.
• Ability to interact with all levels of business executives, community groups, civic leaders, and other individuals to promote the organization and establish partnerships and opportunities to collaborate.
• Ability to learn and use multiple software applications including Quickbooks, Microsoft Office, film screening platforms, donor management software, and social media platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in Business or Public Administration.
• Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification.
• 10+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience including grant writing, major gift solicitations, mail and social media campaigns, and development of business sponsorship packages.
• 5+ years of senior management experience, including experience with nonprofit management.
• 5+ years of experience in organizational and programmatic budgeting and financial management.
• 5+ years of special event or film festival experience.
• History of engaging in and supporting film and/or the arts.
• Film industry experience is a plus.
• Experience expanding a regional organization to national reach.

Working with Film Pittsburgh:

• The starting salary for this position is $85,000, with the potential for a higher starting salary based on experience and qualifications.
• This is a full-time, exempt position, located in-person (not remote) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with a hybrid in-office/remote schedule.
• Benefits include medical and dental insurance, 25+ paid days off, and a matching SIMPLE IRA.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, email your current resume and optional cover letter to: board@filmpittsburgh.com . While cover letters are optional, many candidates use them to elaborate on their skills and experiences that are relevant to the position. Since application materials are scored using a common rubric based on the job description, candidates who supplement the information in their resume with a cover letter are likely to score higher on the rubric. Cover letters will be accepted in any format, including, but not limited to, written letters or emails, video or voice recordings (no more than 3 minutes long), visual infographics, portfolios, presentation decks, or websites.

Application Deadline:

Film Pittsburgh is accepting applications until May 16, 2025. Applications will be reviewed, and eligible candidates will be invited to interview, on a rolling basis through April 30, 2025. Applications received after April 30 will be reviewed together after the final deadline of May 16, ensuring all candidates have an opportunity for full consideration. Early applications are encouraged, but final hiring decisions will not be made until all applications have been reviewed.

Selection Process

The full hiring process includes: 

• Round 1 : Brief phone screening interview for all qualified candidates. Application materials are scored using a common rubric based on the job description.
• Round 2 : Select candidates will be invited to a Zoom interview with Film Pittsburgh search committee members. Interview questions will be sent to all candidates in advance and will focus on the candidates’ previous experience.
• Round 3 : A select number of candidates will be invited for a final-round interview with Film Pittsburgh search committee members. Interview questions will be sent to all candidates in advance and will focus on the candidates’ vision for the position at Film Pittsburgh. 
• Final Round : The top one or two candidates will meet with Film Pittsburgh staff in the office. Finalists will provide names and contact information for reference checks and resume verification. 
• Conditional Offer : After a candidate receives a conditional offer, they are invited to interview any Film Pittsburgh staff or a board member before accepting the position, and reference checks are conducted as a final step.

As part of Film Pittsburgh’s commitment to equity, application materials are scored using a common rubric based on the job description, and interview questions are standardized and sent in advance, with some custom questions for candidates who progress through the application process. 

Film Pittsburgh strives to maintain clear communication with candidates throughout each stage of the process. If you have any questions about the application process or the status of your application at any time, please feel free to email board@filmpittsburgh.com .

Accommodations:

Film Pittsburgh is committed to ensuring an accessible application process. If you need any accommodations to fully participate, please let us know. Requests for accommodations can be directed to board@filmpittsburgh.com .

Disclaimer:

This job post provides key information to understand the scope of the role. It is not a comprehensive list of all skills, efforts, duties, or responsibilities required for the position. The full Executive Director job description will be sent to all candidates who are invited to participate in an interview via Zoom.

Shannon Parris Consulting propels nonprofits and small businesses to reach ambitious goals while uplifting the people who power them. She creates equity-driven strategies for your specific needs by analyzing all aspects of your work, from the processes to the people. Whether navigating tough relationships or wading through convoluted systems, her people-centered approach creates practical solutions that last. Shannon Parris Consulting is leading Film Pittsburgh's recruitment efforts. All application materials and inquiries should be submitted to board@filmpittsburgh.org.

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