Wave Hill · 10 hours ago
Director of Public Programs and Community Outreach
Wave Hill is an organization focused on community engagement and public programs, and they are seeking a Director of Public Programs and Community Outreach. The role involves leading the development and implementation of accessible public programs, building relationships with community partners, and ensuring culturally competent programming that meets community needs.
EventsHome and GardenRental
Responsibilities
Lead the development and implementation of public programs that prioritize accessibility, inclusion, and responsiveness to community interests and needs
Build and maintain strong, authentic relationships with community groups, nonprofits and cultural partners to co-create programming aligned with mutual goals
Lead proactive outreach initiatives with measurable objectives that expand participation and strengthen engagement through on-site and off-site experiences
Represent Wave Hill at community events, neighborhood forums, and public engagements, serving as a trusted spokesperson and advocate for the organization
Ensure that all programming and engagement practices are culturally competent, inclusive, and welcoming
Design and oversee a portfolio of seasonal programs including theme weekends, workshops, lectures, tours etc. that engage audiences, extend Wave Hill’s reach, and support organizational goals
Collaborate with arts, horticulture, and education staff to shape content, provide logistical support, and ensure multi-dimensional experiences that connect visitors to Wave Hill’s gardens, collections, and mission
Provide strategic oversight and support to ensure cross-departmental alignment for all aspects of program delivery, including scheduling, operations, artist/vendor engagement, and resource allocation
Monitor emerging trends in cultural and garden programming to keep seasonal offerings innovative, distinctive, and relevant
Work with the Director of Marketing and Communications to promote seasonal programs, maximize engagement, and maintain mission and brand alignment
Manage the Public Programs budget, aligning spending with organizational priorities and identifying opportunities to grow earned revenue
Forecast costs, track attendance trends, and optimize program pricing to balance financial sustainability with accessibility
Prepare reports evaluating both return on investment and community engagement outcomes, using insights to guide program refinement and growth
Partner with the Philanthropy Department to secure sponsorships, grants, and donations that support seasonal and signature programs
Lead, mentor, and support the Public Programs team, fostering professional growth, collaboration, and accountability
Build and sustain a positive, inclusive team culture that encourages innovation, learning, and continuous improvement
Facilitate interdepartmental communication, shared planning, and problem-solving to ensure cohesive programming, outreach, and engagement
Collaborate with colleagues across the organization to integrate community interests, mission alignment, and institutional priorities into program design, planning, and long-term strategy
Qualification
Required
Lead the development and implementation of public programs that prioritize accessibility, inclusion, and responsiveness to community interests and needs
Build and maintain strong, authentic relationships with community groups, nonprofits and cultural partners to co-create programming aligned with mutual goals
Lead proactive outreach initiatives with measurable objectives that expand participation and strengthen engagement through on-site and off-site experiences
Represent Wave Hill at community events, neighborhood forums, and public engagements, serving as a trusted spokesperson and advocate for the organization
Ensure that all programming and engagement practices are culturally competent, inclusive, and welcoming
Design and oversee a portfolio of seasonal programs including theme weekends, workshops, lectures, tours etc. that engage audiences, extend Wave Hill's reach, and support organizational goals
Collaborate with arts, horticulture, and education staff to shape content, provide logistical support, and ensure multi-dimensional experiences that connect visitors to Wave Hill's gardens, collections, and mission
Provide strategic oversight and support to ensure cross-departmental alignment for all aspects of program delivery, including scheduling, operations, artist/vendor engagement, and resource allocation
Monitor emerging trends in cultural and garden programming to keep seasonal offerings innovative, distinctive, and relevant
Work with the Director of Marketing and Communications to promote seasonal programs, maximize engagement, and maintain mission and brand alignment
Manage the Public Programs budget, aligning spending with organizational priorities and identifying opportunities to grow earned revenue
Forecast costs, track attendance trends, and optimize program pricing to balance financial sustainability with accessibility
Prepare reports evaluating both return on investment and community engagement outcomes, using insights to guide program refinement and growth
Partner with the Philanthropy Department to secure sponsorships, grants, and donations that support seasonal and signature programs
Lead, mentor, and support the Public Programs team, fostering professional growth, collaboration, and accountability
Build and sustain a positive, inclusive team culture that encourages innovation, learning, and continuous improvement
Facilitate interdepartmental communication, shared planning, and problem-solving to ensure cohesive programming, outreach, and engagement
Collaborate with colleagues across the organization to integrate community interests, mission alignment, and institutional priorities into program design, planning, and long-term strategy
Full-time, Monday–Friday. This role requires flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends
Benefits
Medical
Dental
Vision insurance
Paid time off
401k
Pension plan
Life insurance