Title of Position:           Ismaili Center Director

Location Position:        Houston, Texas

Reports to:                    Council for USA Executive Officer

Application Deadline:      April 27th, 2025

 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Reporting to the Executive Officer of the Ismaili Council for USA, the Center Director will take the responsibility for oversight, management, and execution of an ambitious program of activities at the Ismaili Center Houston along with effective functioning and maintenance of the facility. The responsibilities encompass a broad range of duties that ensure the Center remains vibrant, relevant, and responsive to the needs of the community.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.     Strategic Planning

• Contribute to the Center’s long-term strategic planning efforts.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities in all relevant sectors (culture, arts, etc.).
• Develop innovative initiatives to enhance the Center’s offerings and community impact.

2.     Collaboration and Partnership Building

• Coordinate with the Center’s Governance Committee to cultivate and sustain partnerships with academic institutions, cultural organizations, civil society leaders, and businesses, enhancing the Center's mission through strategic engagement and coordination. Collaborate with external partners to co-create and co-host programs.
•  Leverage partnerships to expand the Center’s reach and impact.

3.     Program Development and Management

• Design and implement a diverse range of cultural, educational, and artistic programs, including public tours of the Center ensuring alignment with the community's interests and needs. Oversee the Program Manager in the planning, organization, and execution of events, workshops, exhibitions, performances, and festivals. Partner with the Local Council teams on execution, as appropriate.
• Ensure programs at the Center and Gardens are of high caliber and are aligned with the Center’s goals, values, and aspirations.

4.     Budget and Financial Management

• Prepare and manage the budget, ensuring efficient use of resources.
•  Identify and secure funding opportunities through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.

5.     Policy Development and Advocacy

•  Develop and implement policies related to operations and program delivery.
•  Advocate for the arts, cultural and educational sector within the local community and beyond.

6.     Staff and Volunteer Supervision

• Recruit, train, and supervise facility and program staff and volunteers.
• Provide professional development opportunities and foster a collaborative team environment.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.

7.     Marketing and Public Relations

• Develop and implement marketing strategies with the Program Manager to promote programs and increase participation.
•  Oversee the creation of promotional materials, including brochures, newsletters, social media content, and press releases.
• Represent the center at public events, conferences, and meetings to enhance its visibility and reputation.

8.     Evaluation and Reporting

• Establish and maintain systems for program evaluation and data collection.
• Analyze program outcomes and impact and use findings to improve future programming.
• Prepare and present reports to the Governance Committee.

9.     Facility and Resource Management

• Oversee the operations, maintenance, repairs, and upgrades of the building with the Facilities Manager.
•  Coordinate with facilities staff to ensure that the Center is well-maintained and equipped.
• Manage the use of program resources, including materials, equipment, and technology.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations to have a safe and secure environment.
• Implement and maintain green initiatives to lower carbon footprint.
• Collaborate closely with the Property Matters Portfolio member on the National Counci

QUALIFICATIONS:

Professional Experience: At least 7 years of progressively responsible public engagement and project management experience, preferably in the North American or Western European corporate and/or non-profit sectors. Proven ability to manage multiple teams simultaneously. Experience within Jamati institutions and volunteer settings is highly desirable.

·       Proven track record with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

·       Experience in nascent programs or start-ups is a significant asset.

·       Successful track record in managing events and other public engagement and communications activities.

·       Strong problem-solving, organizational, and management skills.

·       Proven ability to effectively manage multiple responsibilities and collaborate closely with teams of professionals and volunteers.

·       Ability to build and liaise with partners within the Jamat and with external corporate, government, community, and academic organizations.

·       Existing relationships with relevant external stakeholders and organizations is an asset.

·       Demonstrated capability to assess risk, develop risk mitigation strategies, and lead the risk decision-making process, with effective communication both                     internally and externally.

·       Experience in leading policy development and possessing strong decision-making abilities.

·       Strong people management skills.

Academic Credentials: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree from a Western university in a relevant field is required. A master’s degree is preferred.

Language Proficiency: Must possess excellent verbal and superior written communication skills, including strong oral presentation abilities in English.

Disposition: The candidate should be personally committed to the missions and values of the Imamat Institutions and the ethics they reflect. Sensitivity to working in a new position as part of a new team is essential. Maintaining confidentiality is of the utmost importance.

Travel and Flexibility: The candidate may be required to undertake minimal travel and have a flexible work week, including evenings and weekends, as a significant portion of the work will involve coordinating with volunteers who are not available during regular business hours.