What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at Fidalgo DanceWorks?
Updated 22 June 2026
Executive Director (ED) of Fidalgo DanceWorks (FDW)
Overview
As the administrative leader of FDW, the ED actively provides ethical and strategic leadership. Responsible for oversight and execution of all key administrative functions, the ED manages fundraising and resource development, financial management, human resources (payroll and benefits), and community relations. The Executive Director is a co-equal, collaborative partner with the Artistic Director (AD).
Community Relations
● Identify, develop, and nurture diverse relationships in the broader community with the goal of promoting and advocating for the organization
● Serve as a spokesperson for the organization to constituents, the media, board member candidates, and the public
● Serve as “front-of-house” for all Fidalgo DanceWorks performances and events, to include greeting guests and managing day-of ticket sales starting 30 minutes prior to each event.
Human Resources
● Hire, manage, and supervise administrative staff and interns. Hiring decisions must be presented to the Board of Directors, with budget updates as needed, prior to final offers being made.
● In conjunction with the Office Manager, oversee human resources processes, including payroll (benefits, taxes), requisite documentation, and document retention
● Conduct annual performance evaluations and identify professional development needs and plans for direct reports
● Provide leadership and guidance to all FDW staff and faculty, including direct and non-direct reports
● Direct reports include Office Manager, Receptionist, IT and Operations Manager, Communications and Marketing coordinator, office staff, and other positions deemed necessary in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
● Supervise the FDW Chapter (Secondary Program) of the National Honor Society for the Dance Arts, in conjunction with the Chapter Sponsor.
Updated 22 June 2026
Fundraising & Resource Development
● Spearhead all fundraising efforts through personal contact with potential donors (both individual and corporate) and the cultivation of business relations with partner organizations, policy makers, media, and others.
● Create and implement yearly plans for grant applications, and pursue new grant opportunities through all available sources with assistance from the FDW Grants Committee.
● Represent FDW by participating in key associations/organizations (Chamber of Commerce, service organizations, trade organizations, etc.) and through speaking engagements in public settings.
● Work with AD and staff to create dynamic, effective marketing campaigns using all available media methods, and to identify new audiences to support continued growth.
● Oversee Capital Campaign(s) as deemed necessary in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
Financial Management
● In collaboration with the AD and Board of Directors Treasurer, develop the annual budget and oversee adherence to said budget.
● Ensure compliance with all funding and business-related requirements and reporting.
Board Governance
● Serve as an ex officio non-voting member of the Board of Directors and Board committees, and attend all Board meetings
● Collaborate with the AD and Board President in developing Board meeting agendas
● In a timely manner, provide all information necessary for the Board to function properly and to make informed decisions at and in between Board meetings
● Collaborate with the AD and Board President in board recruitment and development
Qualifications and Expectations
● Strong leadership, team building, and interpersonal skills, with proactive approach to problem solving and goal setting
● Significant experience with non-profit organizations, including in-depth knowledge of issues affecting nonprofits and methods of funding
Updated 22 June 2026
● Knowledge of dance education and/or performing arts is preferred
● Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Communications, or a related field is preferred
● At least two years’ experience working effectively with a board of directors to meet organizational needs
● At least two years’ experience with fundraising at all levels through traditional and newer methodologies. Experience supervising, or participating in, a previous Capital Campaign is preferred.
● Excellent communication skills, including oral and written presentation
● Computer literacy is assumed
Compensation and Schedule
● $42 hour, 30-40 hours per week. Daily hours are flexible but a minimum of 30 hours per week is expected, with 40 hours per week being the maximum payable. Weekend hours will be needed, especially during performance seasons. This is a Regular, full-time, exempt position.
● Benefits: sick time, PTO, continuing education, tuition reimbursement for self and dependents
About Us
A registered 501(c)3 since 2008, Fidalgo DanceWorks (FDW) is the largest nonprofit dance school north of Seattle, currently serving 380 students and their families. Our mission is to provide excellence in dance education and performance for all. FDW offers 70 classes each week for students of all ages and abilities. With three studio spaces, sprung floors, a family-friendly environment, professionally trained instructors, and three major performances each year, we attract dancers from throughout the greater Skagit Valley, Whidbey Island, and the San Juans. We offer more than a dozen styles of dance, tumbling, and fitness, including ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and tap, along with special programming for young children and adults with movement challenges. FDW welcomes all who have an interest in dance regardless of sex, race, color, creed, age, national origin, religious belief, or physical or mental disability. Scholarships available for those in need.
Pay: $65,500.00 - $87,360.00 per year
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $65,500 - $87,360