Rooftop Films is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the belief that film can foster valuable, important connections between neighbors, artists, activists, youth and the unique spaces we all share. Established in 1997, our mission is to engage and inspire diverse communities by showcasing the work of emerging filmmakers in outdoor locations, helping filmmakers to produce new films, and renting equipment & supporting film screenings citywide at low-cost to artists, nonprofits and community groups.

Our core program — The Rooftop Films Summer Series – is the only outdoor festival of its kind, hosting approximately 45 site-specific events featuring new independent films at more than 10-15 outdoor locations throughout NYC from May to August each year. In addition, Rooftop makes our in-house equipment and staff expertise available for over 100 additional events each summer.

Rooftop Films is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director who understands and is eager to build on the organization’s history and achievements. The ideal candidate will bring creativity and innovation to our organization, and will work with our staff and board to execute on our mission and vision. The incoming Executive Director will bring strong skills and experience in non-profit arts administration, and will be responsible for the strategic vision, financial sustainability, communications, and overall management of the organization. The position will report directly to the Board of Directors and will be based in Rooftop Films’ Brooklyn, NY office.

Roles and Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership: 

• Spearhead Rooftop’s strategic vision and establish a multi-year business development plan to achieve the organization’s goals

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure the organization’s strategy and policies align with the mission, fiscal health, and support effective governance 

• Oversee and support the organization’s operational team (ranges from six full-time staff to upwards of 70 seasonally), fostering a positive and collaborative work environment that empowers and encourages individual professional growth and development while ensuring a high level of performance and accountability

• Plan strategically with the Operations Manager on all aspects of Human Resources including hiring, training, and onboarding of staff, interns, and volunteers; implementation of HR related systems and policies; development of a Rooftop Films code of conduct; and the administration of annual performance reviews

• Plan strategically with the Technical Manager on all aspects of Rooftop equipment purchase and use, including summer series events, and major rentals and consulting events (both of which account for a substantial portion of the organizational budget), as well as future initiatives and growth
• Lead data collection strategy and implementation efforts to ensure responsiveness to constituent interests and ensure accessibility for and execution of Rooftop mission

• Build a strong and collaborative organizational culture with staff for office operations and management

Financial Management including Fundraising and Development:

• Assume accountability and ownership of organization’s development and fundraising goals including: acting as lead relationship manager for all current and new corporate partnerships; development of foundation and government grants; outreach to major individual donors; generation of earned income

• Identify and pursue diverse funding opportunities, strategies and initiatives, including grants, sponsorships, and donations to generate income for the organization

• Strategize with and oversee Development Manager, Technical Manager, and other staff members as needed in all aspects of income generation. 

• Through partnership with organization’s Finance Manager, monitor, audit, and remain accountable to annual budget

• Oversee financial projections and planning, both short term and long term; provide quarterly reports of organization’s fiscal health to Board of Directors

Communications and External Relations:

• Through partnership with the organization’s Communications Manager, oversee and develop a vision for a marketing plan across all platforms and media

• Develop comprehensive Public Relations plan and evaluate annually 

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with partners, donors, sponsors, and the local community

• Represent the organization at various events, festivals, conferences, and public forums, advocating for the organization’s mission and impact 

Creative Development:

• Provide a coherent voice and a strategic artistic vision for the organization grounded in Rooftop’s mission and woven through Rooftop’s programs and events

• Lead the development and execution of new creative initiatives, fostering an inclusive and diverse community of filmmakers and film enthusiasts 

• Oversee and support the successful execution and ongoing development of the organization’s signature programs: Rooftop Films Summer Series, Rooftop Filmmakers’ Fund, Rooftop Community Fund

Required Qualifications

● At least 10 years of experience in a management and/or leadership position at a non-profit organization, preferably in the film or arts sector

● Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and fundraising expertise

● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders

● Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a demonstrated track record of implementing successful initiatives and programs

● Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to foster an environment that values and respects diverse perspectives and experiences and empowers team members to perform their best 

● Familiarity with the independent film industry, including trends, challenges, and opportunities, is highly desirable

● Ability to work in-person at our Brooklyn office, attend events throughout NYC, and occasional flexibility for travel as required

What we offer:

● A competitive baseline salary of $110,000, commensurate with skills and experience

● A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, sick, and discretionary days

● An in-person schedule in our Brooklyn office with opportunities for hybrid work if needed

● Paid travel to domestic and international events and film festivals as relevant

● A passionate and dedicated team of experienced and creative team players

To apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter to: [email protected]

Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.