MANAGING DIRECTOR

MANAGING DIRECTOR
Rubicon Theatre Company – Ventura, California
Full-Time | Exempt | Reports to Board of Directors (in partnership with Producing Artistic Director)

ABOUT RUBICON THEATRE COMPANY

Founded in 1998, Rubicon Theatre Company is a professional non-profit theatre located in Ventura, California’s vibrant Downtown Cultural District. Now in its 27th Season, Rubicon has produced more than 175 productions to consistent critical acclaim – including numerous world and regional premieres – winning the L.A. Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Sustained Excellence, N.Y. Drama Desk Awards, an Irish Times Award, Ovation, and NAACP Awards. Known for its intimate 180-seat venue, exceptional production values, and commitment to developing new works, Rubicon is a cultural hub that draws artists and audiences from around the world. Actors of renown including Tony, Oscar, Obie, Olivier and Ariel Award-winners have graced the Rubicon stage. Nestled between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Ventura is often called the “coastal crossroads” of California. The city offers the charm of a small town with the amenities of a thriving arts community,

Rubicon is entering an exciting new chapter in its storied history, with a dynamic artistic leadership transition and a season themed Crossroads: Moments That Can Change Everything. We are seeking a visionary, strategic, and hands-on Managing Director to partner with our Producing Artistic Director in leading one of the nation’s most respected intimate professional theatres into its next exciting era.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Working in partnership with the Producing Artistic Director, the Managing Director (MD) will be responsible for the strategic leadership of the organization and supervising the day-to-day operations of the theatre. As an organizational leader, the MD will operationalize the current mission and develop the vision for the theatre alongside the Producing Artistic Director and Board of Directors to build a cohesive strategy to position Rubicon for its next chapter. The MD will also facilitate an environment of collaboration, wellness, and excellence for its staff, board, and artists. The MD serves as a critical ambassador to the Ventura community and the greater Los Angeles Area. The Managing Director will be responsible for the financial health, operational efficiency, and administrative excellence of the company, ensuring that artistic ambitions are matched by organizational sustainability.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Management & Planning

Develop, manage and oversee annual budgets and long-term budgets in partnership with the Producing Artistic Director and Finance Committee.

Monitor cash flow, manage investments, and ensure compliance with all fiscal policies.

Prepare timely and accurate financial reports for the Board of Directors.

Fundraising & Development

Build a strong Development team, including recruiting and onboarding a Development Director.

Collaborate with Development Director to cultivate, solicit and steward major donors, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and institutional funders.

Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding partners.

Participate actively in donor stewardship and recognition activities.

Design and implement capital, endowment, and special campaign initiatives alongside the Development Director.

Operations & Administration

Oversee day-to-day operations, human resources, contracts, and insurance.

Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, union agreements, and industry standards.

Manage and mentor administrative staff, fostering a collaborative and accountable workplace culture.

Marketing & Audience Engagement

Support the Producing Artistic Director and marketing staff in the creation and execution of successful marketing plans that maximize ticket revenue and effectively communicate institutional goals.

Strengthen patron loyalty and community connections through exceptional customer service and engagement.

Board Relations & Governance

Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors.

Partner with the Board to advance strategic goals and cultivate new members.

Provide timely, accurate reporting to ensure strong governance and fiduciary oversight.

Support Board recruitment, training, and committee work.

QUALIFICATIONS

A minimum of 5–7 years of senior management experience in a non-profit arts or cultural organization (theatre experience strongly preferred).

Demonstrated success in fundraising, financial management, and organizational leadership.

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

Strategic thinker with a collaborative leadership style.

Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the arts.

Financially astute, strategically minded, and operationally disciplined.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

Passion for the performing arts and belief in the transformative power of theatre.

Charismatic and relationship-builder with a strategic mindset.

Highly organized, self-motivated, and results-oriented.

Thrives in a collaborative, team-based environment.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Salary range: $110,000–$135,000, commensurate with experience.

Medical insurance provided (no dental or vision coverage).

Competitive vacation, holiday, and sick paid time off.

Professional development opportunities.

START DATE

January, 2026

TO APPLY
Please send a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to:

Perla Ponti, Chief of Staff
E-mail: pponti@rubicontheatre.org
Subject line: Managing Director Application – [Your Name]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling` basis until the position is filled.

Rubicon Theatre Company is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment on any basis, including race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or national origin.

Join us in shaping the future of a nationally respected theatre company—help ensure that world-class artistry continues to thrive in our coastal community for generations to come.