Managing Director - Wrightsel Music Hall

**The Organization**

The Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) is more than just a performing arts organization—it's a cornerstone of creativity, culture, and community in Central Ohio. At CAPA, we are committed to inspiring and transforming lives through the power of the performing arts. With a rich history and a dynamic vision for the future, we manage iconic theaters, host world-class performances, and foster a love of the arts in audiences of all ages.

Wrightsel Music Hall (WMH) will be a new addition to the CAPA family, currently under renovation and is expected to open in Fall 2027. This flexible performance space will allow CAPA to expand its community outreach through a wide variety of programming including live performances, weddings, corporate events, and community activities.

**The Opportunity**

* Are you passionate about programming and operating a non-traditional performance space that will host a diverse array of performances and community events?
* Do you have experience in the operations of a performance space and an interest in developing and then overseeing all aspects of a building’s programming and operations?
* Are you excited about the opportunity to lead the creation and launch of a new operation while also being able to work with the background support of a larger organization?

**Primary Function**

The Managing Director (MD) of WMH, reporting to the President & CEO initially and longer-term TBD, will be responsible for planning the programming and operations of WMH to accomplish a successful opening and a sustainable operating plan. The MD of WMH will oversee all aspects of WMH operations once the venue is operational. The MD of WMH is a strong leader who promotes and instills best practices in venue programming and operations, ensuring the long-term success of CAPA’s mission in Wrightsel Music Hall.

**Duties, Responsibilities, and Key Performance Objectives**

First Month:

* Gain a deep understanding of the operational planning for WMH. Review physical plans and construction progress. Use knowledge of both to ensure that the physical building and operational plans are coordinated in a manner that will ensure long-term financial and operational success of the venue.
* Provide first impressions on the building plans and share any red flag concerns regarding the renovation plans versus long-term operational needs.

First 120 Days:

* Begin the process of converting operational concepts into a detailed, written operational plan for WMH. Functional areas include but are not limited to ticketing, technical needs, concessions, programming, custodial. Work closely with the appropriate teams at CAPA to make sure that shared resource functions are properly aligned with processes that are already in place.
* Develop a programming and calendar outline for the first 12 months of activation at WMH. This should include types of programming, frequency, and the financial estimates for each type of event.
* Review and refine existing financial models for WMH. Provide continuous updates to the financial model based on the development of the materials in the preceding bullet points.

First Six Months:

* There is a shared sense of readiness for the upcoming activation of WMH to include but not limited to:
+ The operational plans, programming calendar, and financial models discussed above are well-vetted and ready to be used as a blueprint for the pending activation of WMH.
+ Planning for opening events is well underway, and timing of additional staff hires has been mapped out.
+ CAPA’s leadership team and departments that will be impacted by WMH’s opening understand protocols and resource needs for the venue.

Upon Opening:

* Oversee, supervise, and take part in all functions needed for smooth, efficient and sustainable operation of WMH.
+ Recruit, hire and manage WMH staff.
+ Work closely with other CAPA staff and managers to ensure that shared service areas are coordinated and provide timely and appropriate resources for WMH.
+ Be responsible for the financial results of WMH; manage revenue and expenses to achieve a sustainable model with breakeven or better operating results.
+ Program and schedule WMH in a way that meets CAPA’s expectations for level of activity while also meeting financial requirements for a sustainable operation.
+ Oversee and manage Food & Beverage (including contractors or consulting partners) in a way that serves the operational needs of WMH while meeting financial targets.

Other Duties

* Coordinates with CAPA staff to create brand recognition and excitement around WMH. Serves as a community ambassador for the venue.
* Although this is a management position, the small nature of the venue and its staff require an individual that is willing and able to assist with operational duties as needed to ensure operations of the venue.
* This job description is not designed to cover or contain an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, and key performance objectives that are expected of the employee. These items may change, or new job-related items may be assigned from time to time.

**Knowledge, Skills and Abilities**

* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Excellent problem solving and planning skills with the ability to identify and address immediate and long-term issues.
* The ability to work independently but to communicate effectively within the umbrella of a large organization.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, etc.) with the ability to learn other technology systems that support CAPA’s operations including building systems (security, HVAC, etc.).
* Understanding of budgeting/financial reporting and the ability to create and maintain basic budgets.
* Ability to train, direct, and evaluate the performance of staff members and outside contractors.
* Ability to walk, stand and sit for extended periods.
* Ability to climb stairs and ladders, bend and kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds.

**Credentials and Experience**

* Typically, 10+ years of experience working in a public or events facility with responsibilities such as oversight of venue programming or venue operations is needed to have sufficient experience and judgement to perform this role.
* Annual base pay for this role is $110,000 - $120,000 with the opportunity for growth upon successful opening of the venue.
* This position is a full-time benefits eligible position. Employees may participate in medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement savings, paid time off, holiday pay, employee assistance, wellness, and other company-sponsored benefit programs. Benefit eligibility and coverage are subject to plan terms and applicable policies.

**Special Requirements**

* Successful background check.
* This position requires a credit check that is satisfactory to management.
* Willingness to attend conferences and maintain artistic and promoter relationships locally and nationally.
* The majority of WMH’s events will take place at night and on weekends. This position requires regular presence on-site during nights and weekends and is on-call 24/7 to respond to emergencies.

*The Columbus**Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CAPA does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, lactation status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other protected status.*