Assistant Director, Arts Annex

About Duke University

Founded in 1924 by James Buchanan Duke, Duke University is recognized as one of the premier research universities in the United States. Situated in Durham, North Carolina, within the renowned Research Triangle area, Duke supports over 15,000 students across its ten undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools, and employs close to 40,000 staff, making it the third largest private employer in the state. Its influence extends globally through international programs in over 150 nations.

Role Overview

The Assistant Director of the Arts Annex plays a pivotal role in fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment where students can deepen their artistic interests, develop leadership capabilities, and engage in enriching creative experiences. This leadership position within Venue and Production Management supports student involvement in the arts through operational oversight and program creation, while championing innovation, diversity, and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Arts Annex, including specialized facilities such as ceramics, screen-printing, visual arts, and dance studios.
• Oversee facility scheduling, optimize space usage, and ensure high-quality user experiences for students and university collaborators.
• Plan and direct facility improvements, maintenance activities, and long-term enhancements.
• Maintain equipment inventories, ensuring proper tracking, safety, and functionality.
• Provide on-site, visible support during regular hours including evenings and weekends.
• Ensure adherence to university policies related to safety, risk, and operational standards.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate undergraduate and graduate student employees while fostering leadership and a creative culture.
• Manage staffing budgets and payroll, along with workforce planning and continuous performance assessment.
• Mentor student leaders to encourage creative innovation and active campus engagement.
• Create inclusive environments encouraging participation and community-building through the arts.
• Represent the Arts Annex in broader university initiatives promoting student inclusion and wellbeing.
• Lead digital marketing and communication efforts, managing social media, content creation, and promotional activities to increase awareness and participation.
• Operate reservation and registration platforms to improve experience and streamline operations.
• Develop partnerships with faculty, student organizations, departments, and community entities to support interdisciplinary arts experiences and expand participation.
• Participate in university committees and collaborate across divisions to further departmental objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of two years' relevant experience in personnel management, higher education administration, or related areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Arts Management, Media Production, or related fields.
• At least three years of experience working in student activities, arts programming, or campus engagement.
• Proven ability in budgeting, supervising student staff, program evaluation, and event planning.
• Experience within creative or student-centered environments, including arts or performance settings.

Compensation and Benefits

Annual salary range from $48,899 to $77,510, dependent on experience, education, and skills. In addition to salary, Duke offers comprehensive medical and dental coverage, competitive retirement plans, and various family-friendly and cultural programs.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Duke University actively supports a diverse and inclusive community, committed to equitable employment practices free from discrimination based on factors such as age, gender identity, race, disability, and more. It fosters a culture that values collaboration, creativity, and belonging, where every member's contribution is respected.

Essential Job Functions

Some physical and mental capabilities may be required to perform this role, with accommodations available through university services if needed.