Head Producer

GENERAL PURPOSE STATEMENT

The Head Producer serves as the strategic and operational leader for the Aspen Art Museum's ambitious programming initiatives, with primary responsibility for AIR Aspen—the museum's flagship annual summit bridging artists, scientists, technologists, and cultural leaders. This role combines high-level creative vision with complex logistical execution, overseeing AIR's dual programming: the intimate AIR Retreat (30 leading experts) and the public AIR Festival (large-scale performances, commissioned artworks, and interdisciplinary dialogues).

Beyond AIR, the Head Producer manages special exhibitions, artist residencies, institutional events, and public programs throughout the year. Reporting to the Deputy Director, Operations, this role translates creative visions into operational reality through comprehensive planning, vendor management, timeline coordination, and cross-departmental collaboration with curatorial, development, and marketing teams.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Planning & Execution

• Lead comprehensive logistical planning for AIR programming and year-round museum initiatives
• Coordinate complex multi-venue logistics across Aspen and manage gallery installations
• Develop detailed operational timelines, production schedules, and execution protocols
• Manage venue contracts, technical specifications, and equipment procurement for diverse programming needs
• Oversee transportation, accommodation, and hospitality arrangements for artists, participants, and VIP guests

Production Team Management & Staffing

• Plan and coordinate staffing needs across all museum public programming
• Manage production teams, including technical staff, venue coordinators, and hospitality personnel
• Coordinate with freelance specialists and temporary staff for exhibitions and events
• Ensure adequate staffing levels and backup plans for all operational components
• Facilitate communication between production staff and museum departments

Budget Support & Resource Management

• Work with Deputy Director, Operations, and the finance team to track expenses across all programming
• Process vendor invoices, manage contracts, and coordinate payment schedules
• Monitor operational costs against approved budgets and flag potential overruns
• Support budget planning for future programming through detailed cost analysis and reporting
• Maintain accurate records of all operational expenses and vendor relationships

Vendor Management & External Coordination

• Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and service providers across all operational needs
• Coordinate with external consultants for exhibitions, events, and programming deliverables
• Oversee permits, insurance, and regulatory compliance for installations and events
• Establish and maintain relationships with local emergency services, security, and municipal authorities
• Negotiate contracts and service agreements in coordination with operations and legal teams

Risk Management & Contingency Planning

• Identify operational risks and develop comprehensive contingency plans
• Establish health, safety, and security protocols for public events and private gatherings
• Create backup plans for critical operational components, including venues, transportation, and staffing
• Coordinate emergency response procedures with local authorities and venue partners
• Maintain real-time problem-solving capabilities during event execution

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Arts Administration, Cultural Production, or equivalent professional experience
• 7-10 years of progressive experience in large-scale event production, with demonstrated leadership of production teams and budget oversight exceeding $1M
• Proven track record in managing complex multi-stakeholder projects with consultant coordination and vendor management
• Experience in cultural institutions or major events with multiple moving parts, diverse audiences, and high-stakes delivery
• Strong background in operational leadership, team management, and cross-departmental coordination

Preferred Experience:

• Background in museum programming, exhibitions, or large-scale cultural initiatives
• Experience managing external consultants across multiple disciplines (branding, PR, development, curatorial)
• Proven ability to build and transfer knowledge systems for organizational continuity
• Experience with succession planning and team development in complex project environments
• Familiarity with nonprofit operations, donor relations, and board-level communications

Technical & Creative Competencies:

• Advanced project management capabilities with proficiency in industry-standard software
• Understanding of technical requirements for diverse artistic media (sound, video, digital installation)
• Budget management and financial oversight for complex multi-component projects
• Grant writing and partnership development experience
• Crisis management and problem-solving under high-pressure circumstances

Leadership Qualities:

• Exceptional operational and logistical management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple teams and complex timelines
• Strong organizational and planning capabilities with meticulous attention to detail
• Outstanding problem-solving abilities and grace under pressure in high-stakes operational environments
• Excellent communication and coordination skills for working across diverse departments and external partners
• Flexibility and adaptability for managing evolving operational requirements and unexpected challenges

WORKING CONDITIONS & EXPECTATIONS

This role requires:

• Occasional travel for artist studio visits, venue scouting, exhibition planning, and partnership development
• Intensive on-site presence during AIR week (July 26-August 1) and major museum events with flexible scheduling
• Ability to work in diverse physical environments, from alpine outdoor installations to gallery spaces
• Professional presence suitable for interaction with world-renowned artists, cultural leaders, and major donors
• Occasional weekend and evening availability for international coordination and event production

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The salary for this position is $120k-140k annually, commensurate with experience. Aspen Art Museum offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, professional development opportunities, and museum membership benefits.

LOCATION

This position is based in Aspen, Colorado, with occasional travel required for artist and partner meetings. Hybrid arrangements may be considered for qualified candidates with relevant experience.

Salary : $120,000 - $140,000