Director of Programming

Full-Time

The Director of Programming is a senior leadership role overseeing all of WORTHLESSSTUDIOS’ artistic initiatives, residencies, and public programming. This person shapes program direction, ensures alignment with organizational values, and stewards artist relationships from concept to execution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Support the Artistic Director’s vision for producing unique and engaging programs to support emerging artists by providing them with necessary resources.

    • Oversee smooth production of all WS’ core programs including the Photographer in Residence Program, WARP, public art projects, exhibitions and artist commissions.

    • Work with Program Managers to develop and produce community based public programs centered around WS’s core programs ensuring we continue engaging broader audiences and communities.

    • Ensure programs deliver impact on key mission-based metrics related to artistic and community impact

    • Work with core WS staff to ensure programs can move smoothly from idea to execution, including owning the calendar and planning process

    • Work with the Executive Director, Artistic Director and Board of Directors to develop, recruit and retain talent and ensure all direct and indirect reports receive appropriate professional development.

    • Develop measurement tools to assess impact, promote improvement through measurement, planning, training and implementation activities

    • Help message WS’s creative vision to stakeholders including staff, patrons, Board of Directors, elected officials and funders.

    • Attend board meetings and committee meetings as needed. Provide regular programmatic reports for inclusion in board packages and presentations at board meetings.

    • Support the development department in fundraising efforts including: responses to funding opportunities, explaining programs to potential donors and funders, presenting program outcomes, responding to detailed questions regarding programs and ensuring that programmatic services are delivered and programmatic goal are met per all foundations funding sources.

    • Support the Accounting Department and lead the budget process with direct reports by working with them to create program budget that meet program goals, review financial reports and make adjustments when necessary.

    • Stand as a strong representative of WS’s artistic mission by communicating with and maintaining external relationships with funders, partners and community stakeholders.

    • Along with leadership, manage WS’s relationships with State and City agencies and ensure programmatic services are delivered and programmatic goals are met per all government grants.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 5+ years experience in cultural programming, curatorial leadership, or artist support in non-profit space

  • Experience managing teams and large-scale art projects

  • Creative, strategic thinker with excellent communication skills

  • Knowledge of the New York City arts and culture sector

  • Passion for supporting emerging artists and bringing large scale projects to life

  • Goal oriented and deadline driven

  • Ability to multi-task and work well with changing priorities and highly organized with meticulous attention to detail

  • Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends if needed for events

  • Expert knowledge of Google Suite, Slack and Notion is a plus

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS

The Director of Programming is a full-time, exempt position, and is primarily in-person (Lower Manhattan) with a salary range of $85,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experience. WS offers a competitive benefit package including healthcare, stipend for creative endeavors, 401(k) and PTO.

HOW TO APPLY

Send an email to team@worthlessstudios.org with the subject line “Director of Programming” and the required materials listed below.

APPLICATION MATERIALS:

  1. Contact Information: Name, Email, Phone number.

  2. Letter of Intent: Provide a short cover letter addressing what excites you about this position and what you might contribute to WORTHLESSSTUDIOS.

  3. CV: Outline relevant work experience, education, and skills.

  4. References: Provide the names and contact information for two references.

Why WORTHLESSSTUDIOS? 

WORTHLESSSTUDIOS supports artists in producing bold, ambitious works that engage communities and transform public space. As Director of Programming, you’ll lead the development and execution of our core initiatives, from artist residencies to exhibitions and public programs. This is a leadership opportunity for someone eager to shape artistic vision at the intersection of social relevance and creative excellence.
WORTHLESSSTUDIOS is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.