Executive Director

WHAT WE DO

Since 1945, San Diego Civic Youth Ballet (SDCYB) has served as a cornerstone of the San Diego arts community, operating as the resident classical ballet school in the heart of Balboa Park. As one of the city’s longest-standing arts education institutions, SDCYB operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit from the historic Casa del Prado. We are dedicated to making ballet accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for thousands of children and families throughout the region. Our work is sustained by an annual budget of $1.2 million, an active Board of Directors, and a dedicated staff of 34 professionals, all supported by a passionate network of more than 300 committed volunteers.

This collective effort allows us to provide high-quality, affordable dance education to over 425 students per semester, with a faculty of 17 professional instructors leading more than 60 weekly classes. These efforts culminate in four major productions annually at the Casa del Prado Theater, including the beloved The Nutcracker, reaching over 10,000 patrons and giving our students the invaluable experience of performing in a professional environment.

Our mission extends well beyond the studio through intentional community impact. SDCYB’s Educational Outreach Program provides tuition-free instruction to more than 350 students in public schools across San Diego County, with a focus on Title I schools and military families. Additionally, our flagship Ballet for Me! program, established in 2015, offers free weekly classes specifically designed for children with disabilities, ensuring every child can experience the joy and confidence found on the stage.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE

Our work is guided by a highly engaged and connected Board of 8 community leaders from across the region. SDCYB’s success is rooted in a collaborative culture where our highly skilled team operates with mutual respect and a shared commitment to the mission. This supportive atmosphere has led to remarkable continuity, with some staff members serving the organization for nearly two decades.

BENEFITS & FEATURES

• Salary – $120,000 - $150,000 DOE/Neg.; bonus eligible.
• Comprehensive medical and dental benefits
• Retirement plan (401(k)) with employer match
• Generous paid time off package and holiday schedule
• Flexible spending account options
• Paid parking and monthly cell phone reimbursement

LOCATION

This is an in-person role with an office in the historic Casa del Prado Building in Balboa Park, 1650 El Prado, Suite 209, San Diego, CA 92101.

POSITION SUMMARY

This is an incredible opportunity to lead one of San Diego’s longest-standing arts education institutions. Reporting to the Board of Directors and managing a $1.2 million operating budget, the Executive Director (ED) is responsible for the overall health, stability, and success of the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet. The ED will build upon SDCYB’s 80-year legacy to shape future growth and amplify its impact. As a highly visible leader, the ED drives SDCYB’s brand awareness and strategic direction through cross-sector collaboration and community partnerships. This role is foundational to the organization’s sustainability; the ED will lead and support efforts to diversify funding, strengthen donor engagement, and ensure its fiscal integrity. Serving as the primary ambassador for SDCYB, the ED works in close partnership with the Board and Artistic Director, and oversees a dedicated professional team of 30, including 2 current direct reports: Operations Manager and Education Services Coordinator. The ED will also oversee consultants in the areas of marketing, philanthropy, and accounting/bookkeeping. This role requires a hands-on leader who can bring structure, clarity, and operational discipline while positioning the organization for long-term growth.

1st Year Priorities

• Stakeholder Engagement and Cultural Integration: Build trust and rapport with the Board, staff, faculty, donors, and families to develop a deep appreciation for SDCYB’s history, team dynamics, and community impact.
• Organizational Assessment and Infrastructure: Evaluate SDCYB’s current structure to ensure an efficient balance between administration and programming, while conducting a full audit of internal systems, policies, and procedures to modernize workflows.
• Strategic Fundraising: Lead and actively participate in fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation, grant strategy, and revenue growth initiatives, in partnership with the Board and Development Committee.
• Revenue Diversification and Marketing: Create and launch comprehensive Development and Marketing Plans to strengthen annual giving and grant efforts while expanding student recruitment into communities beyond the immediate region.
• Programmatic and Community Impact: In collaboration with the team, maintain the excellence of SDCYB’s four annual productions and flagship outreach programs, ensuring these initiatives remain sustainably funded and accessible to families throughout San Diego County.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Organizational Leadership & Infrastructure

• Guide the day-to-day activities and manage essential workflows, including student registration, tuition management, and general office documentation.
• Ensure SDCYB remains in full compliance with nonprofit requirements, youth-safety standards, and California employment practices.
• Coordinate facility needs and maintain productive relationships with vendors and partners within Balboa Park.

Financial Management

• Develop and monitor the annual operating budget in coordination with the Board Treasurer to ensure long-term financial health.
• Manage essential functions, including payroll, receivables, contracts, and purchasing.
• Maintain accurate financial records and internal controls while providing timely reporting to the Board.

Community Engagement & Development

• Serve as a visible representative to donors, families, and arts partners to enhance SDCYB’s reputation and regional impact.
• Partner with the Board and Philanthropy Committee to support donor relations, grant efforts, and stewardship initiatives as a key collaborator.
• Build and strengthen relationships with local schools, organizations, and community groups to expand reach.

People Leadership & Programs

• Provide coaching and growth opportunities for administrative and faculty staff while fostering an inclusive and accountable culture.
• Oversee the full employee lifecycle, including staff planning, hiring, onboarding, and performance management.
• Collaborate closely with artistic staff on program planning and logistics to ensure high-quality experiences for students, alumni, and volunteers during seasonal productions and events.

BACKGROUND PROFILE

• Proven success leading fundraising efforts and growing revenue across multiple streams, including individual giving, events, grants, and partnerships.
• Five years of demonstrated senior leadership and management experience, including strategy development, board engagement, change management, team leadership and collaboration, and talent development.
• Demonstrated success in building effective partnerships, with the cultural competency to engage and inspire a broad range of stakeholders, including donors, businesses, elected officials, and community-based organizations.
• Superb people skills, with exceptionally well-developed listening and communication skills, and the ability to connect with and inspire confidence among a wide range of stakeholders.
• Highly empathetic, exhibiting sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy when dealing with internal and external stakeholders.
• A solid fundamental understanding of fiscal management with experience developing and managing budgets.
• Experience with technology and CRMs, such as Google Workplace, QuickBooks, Bill.com, Jackrabbit Dance, and Patron Manager.
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions, set priorities, and lead through ambiguity in a dynamic environment.