JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Job Description

The Fertile Ground Project Manager at Deeply Rooted Productions (DRP) plays a pivotal role in the success of the Creative Communities StoryBridge program, Fertile Ground. This individual is responsible for the effective management of all personnel and tasks related to the program, ensuring seamless operations and program delivery.

About Deeply Rooted Productions

Deeply Rooted Productions dba Deeply Rooted Dance Theater (DRP/DRDT), established in 1995, made its public debut in 1996. DRP re-imagines and diversifies the aesthetics of contemporary dance by uniting modern, classical, American, and African American traditions in dance and storytelling. Through its uncompromising pursuit of excellence, DRP demonstrates the transformative power of art and beauty in Chicago and on the world stage. It cultivates a creative community dedicated to nurturing artists, advancing dance education, fostering collaboration, supporting human relationships, and sharing common values. For more information, please visit deeplyrooteddancetheater.org/

Position

DRP seeks a Fertile Ground Project Manager who collaborates closely with the Fertile Ground Producing Director, the Fertile Ground Team, the production team, and key DRP staff and consultants to orchestrate and facilitate all activities related to the Fertile Ground program. This role is central to the implementation of various program facets, including the annual Fertile Ground production, workshops, meetings, and town halls.

Primary Duties, Responsibilities, and Estimated Proportions of Workloads

• Program Planning and Execution: Organize and lead the Fertile Ground Partner meetings and planning meetings, coordinating with the Producing Director and the broader team.

• Activity Coordination: Oversee the scheduling and management of all program activities, from workshops to performances, ensuring smooth operation and engagement.

• Partner Engagement: Facilitate communication and collaboration with Fertile Ground partners and community support groups, enhancing the program’s outreach and impact.

• Budget Management: Collaborate with the Producing Director, Executive Director and Dance Education Manager to formulate and manage the Fertile Ground budget, maintaining detailed records and documentation.

• Personnel Supervision: Lead the Fertile Ground management and administrative support personnel for programming, fostering a collaborative and efficient team environment.

• Community Relations: Maintain and strengthen relationships with community partners, coordinating program activities and ensuring mutual benefits.

• Data Collection: Implement systems for collecting demographic and program data, crucial for reporting and future planning.

• Logistical Support: In collaboration with the Operations Director and Dance Education Manager, Coordinate travel and accommodations for out-of-state program personnel and ensure all participants have the necessary information and materials.

• Program Evaluation: Assist in scheduling and conducting post-program assessments, contributing to the continuous improvement of the Fertile Ground initiative.

• Intern Support: When available, the Fertile Ground project manager receives assistance from a stipend-based administrative intern, dedicating up to 15 hours weekly. In collaboration with the Executive and Operations Directors (ED & OD), the project manager plays a key role in evaluating, choosing, and onboarding the intern. Although the ED and OD may offer high-level oversight, the project manager is primarily responsible for the intern’s day-to-day supervision.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

• Combine demonstrated business acumen with creative and collaborative leadership

• Have strong interest and experience in nonprofit arts management

• Be an effective and inspiring communicator

• Be highly organized

• Be dedicated to coaching and nurturing assigned interns and volunteers

• Be open to managerial innovation and learning

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Works well in a group setting and Works efficiently on their own

• Detail-oriented and Organized

• Has a flexible schedule (Some nights and weekends availability is needed)

• Marketing experience (plus)

Essential qualifications:

• Minimum 1 year of internship experience in a nonprofit arts organization of a similar size

• Experience in budget management and financial reporting

• Approach challenges honestly, constructively, and creatively

• Demonstrates strong interpersonal communication skills

Other desired qualifications:

• Innate love and value for contemporary dance, especially African American traditions in dance and cultural and historic perspectives that supports those traditions.

• Event planning, production, or high-level project management skills.

• Ability to read and understand lengthy, detailed contracts and negotiate terms.

• Senior experience with productivity tools (i.e., Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, MailChimp, Salesforce, Kindful, and other CRM platforms).

Reporting

The Fertile Ground Project Manager directly reports to the Fertile Ground Producing Director. The Fertile Ground Project Manager also reports to the Artistic and Executive Directors of DRP.

Work Hours

This part-time role offers a flexible hybrid work model, combining in-person and virtual engagement.

Compensation

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience for an organization of DRP’s size, with opportunities for growth and benefits in subsequent years.

Application Instructions

Please email your resume and a cover letter to info@deeplyrootedproductions.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Upon the successful completion of the search, the Selection Committee intends to hire the Fertile Ground Project Manager as soon as possible. No phone calls, please.

Deeply Rooted Productions is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for employees and applicants.