Newark, NJ
DHR Global is pleased to lead the search for the next President & Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), one of the nation’s premier performing arts and cultural institutions. As the centerpiece of Newark’s cultural renaissance and the most diverse performing arts centers in the country, NJPAC presents world-class arts and entertainment, delivers extensive arts education programs, and serves as a catalyst for civic engagement and economic development.
Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Directors, the President & CEO serves as the organization’s chief executive and strategic leader, overseeing all artistic, operational, financial, fundraising, and community engagement activities. This leader will build upon NJPAC’s strong foundation while advancing its mission, strengthening stakeholder relationships, driving revenue growth, and elevating its impact throughout Newark, New Jersey, and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
• Provide visionary leadership and execute a strategic plan that advances NJPAC’s mission and long-term sustainability.
• Partner closely with the Board of Directors to establish organizational priorities and ensure strong governance.
• Lead fundraising efforts, including major gifts, foundation support, corporate partnerships, and government relations.
• Oversee financial performance, budgeting, operations, and organizational resources.
• Champion artistic programming, arts education, community engagement, and social impact initiatives.
• Serve as NJPAC’s primary spokesperson and ambassador with donors, public officials, business leaders, artists, and community stakeholders.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing executive leadership team and organizational culture.
• Guide the continued growth and visibility of NJPAC as a leading national performing arts institution and community anchor.
Ideal Candidate
• Accomplished executive leadership experience in a complex nonprofit, cultural, civic, educational, or mission-driven organization.
• Demonstrated success leading multifaceted organizations with significant operational and financial responsibilities.
• Proven fundraising and external relations experience, including cultivating major donors and strategic partnerships.
• Strong financial and business acumen with a track record of driving growth and organizational sustainability.
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Collaborative, inclusive leadership style with the ability to inspire diverse constituencies.
• Passion for the performing arts, arts education, community development, and civic impact.
About the Organization
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center is one of the largest and most influential performing arts centers in the United States. Since opening in 1997, NJPAC has welcomed millions of patrons through world-class performances spanning music, dance, theater, comedy, and family programming. The organization is nationally recognized for its commitment to arts education, community engagement, and diversity, serving as both a cultural destination and a catalyst for economic development in Newark. NJPAC employs approximately 125 full-time staff members and supports a broad network of volunteers, members, donors, artists, and community partners. The organization is also advancing an ambitious campus redevelopment initiative designed to further expand its educational, artistic, and community impact.
Compensation
NJPAC offers a competitive executive compensation package commensurate with experience, including estimated base salary in mid $700,000 range, benefits, and incentive opportunities.
To Apply
Please direct all inquiries, nominations, and applications to the DHR Global team, led by James Abruzzo and Michele Counter, at NJPACPresidentCEO@dhrglobal.com.
