Program Officer, Arts and Culture

About The Cleveland Foundation

Founded in 1914 as the first community foundation worldwide, the Cleveland Foundation boasts assets worth $3.9 billion and a mission to enhance life quality for Greater Cleveland residents now and into the future. Based in MidTown Cleveland, this workplace is embedded in a vibrant historic district surrounded by partners and community influencers working toward regional growth and prosperity.

Role Overview

The Program Officer for Arts & Culture is instrumental in extending the foundation's impact by building sustained relationships with artists, cultural groups, and civic stakeholders across the Greater Cleveland area. This role involves strategic grant management, fostering partnerships, and supporting an arts ecosystem that enriches communities and promotes economic and cultural vitality.

Core Duties

• Identify and establish partnerships that amplify impact and coordinate efforts.
• Assist in the planning, execution, and evaluation of initiatives connected to foundation priorities.
• Engage a variety of stakeholders in advocacy and system change initiatives.
• Champion and convene groups to spark community-driven solutions.
• Produce internal reports and community insights for leadership use.
• Represent the foundation at public events and collaborative forums.
• Guide program/grant activities to align with long-term impact targets.
• Support partner organizations in outcome development and monitoring.
• Inspire donor involvement in targeted Impact Agenda projects.
• Evaluate and adapt programs in response to emerging lessons and outcomes.
• When suitable, help formulate policy and advocacy strategies.

In addition to strategic leadership, this position administers a grants portfolio, ensuring thorough review, evaluation, and documentation. The role also extends to providing technical assistance and remaining informed on sector trends and innovations within Cleveland and surrounding counties.

Team and Community Collaboration

• Promote a culture of innovation and data-informed decision-making across the foundation's operations.
• Support capacity-building among partners to increase accountability and impact.
• Identify training needs and collaborate on team development initiatives.
• Engage donors through meaningful interaction to enhance grantmaking outcomes.
• Assist with onboarding processes for new team members and foster ongoing professional growth.
• Contribute to organizational strategic planning efforts.

Desired Competencies

• Sound judgment and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication and active listening skills.
• Strategic leadership with a results-driven mindset.
• Collaborative teamwork and adaptability.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities.

Candidate Qualifications

• Must hold a bachelor's degree, with a master's preferred in fields like public policy, social work, education, or business.
• At least three years’ experience in comparable roles showcasing project management and strategic leadership.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Cleveland neighborhoods.
• Deep commitment to the city and its arts and cultural development.
• Capacity to manage multiple complex projects concurrently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Additional Skills

• Strong collaborative skills across diverse teams and community sectors.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and familiar with database tools like Salesforce.
• Background in sectors such as health services, community development, organizing, or neighborhood revitalization is a plus.

Work Conditions

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel requirements.
• Flexible scheduling needed, including attendance at important community gatherings.