Organization: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Location: Washington, DC (On-site)
Job Category: Programming
Requisition Number: SENIO001130
Schedule: Full-time
Posted: September 19, 2025
Compensation: $310,000 – $340,000 (commensurate with experience, with full benefits)
About the Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts serves as both the nation’s cultural hub and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Nestled along the Potomac River, it presents more than 2,000 performances annually across nine stages, spanning every artistic discipline. In addition to its role as a presenter, the Center is home to the Washington National Opera and the National Symphony Orchestra.
With a mission to connect people from all walks of life to the arts, the Kennedy Center thrives on diversity, creativity, and inclusivity. Its workplace is built on a foundation of belonging and empowerment, ensuring that every employee’s perspective strengthens the institution’s cultural impact both nationally and internationally.
The Opportunity
The Senior Vice President of Artistic Programming leads the Kennedy Center’s artistic vision and execution. This executive role requires balancing creativity with strategy, overseeing a team of artistic administrators, and shaping the narrative of the performing arts in society. With responsibility for nine stages and a vast artistic portfolio, the SVP ensures the Kennedy Center remains a global leader in performance, innovation, and collaboration.
Areas of Impact
- Artistic Leadership & Programming Vision
- Guide programming across multiple disciplines, blending traditional and emerging art forms.
- Build a distinctive narrative around the Kennedy Center’s dual role as producer and presenter.
- Champion new formats, genres, and experimental artistic ventures.
- Collaborations & Partnerships
- Forge relationships with world-class artists, innovators, and cultural organizations.
- Expand both local and international collaborations that elevate the Kennedy Center’s reach.
- Strengthen ties with DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) artists and communities for inclusive programming.
- Organizational & Strategic Oversight
- Lead artistic administrators across multiple divisions, including theater, dance, jazz, family programming, international projects, and broadcast media.
- Provide cross-departmental leadership to ensure artistic priorities align with marketing, fundraising, and scheduling.
- Manage budgets with accountability for revenue, expenses, and long-term sustainability.
- Innovation in the Arts
- Oversee the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and its integration across productions.
- Introduce forward-thinking programming initiatives to maintain artistic excellence and relevance.
- Support exhibit installations and interdisciplinary projects to broaden the audience experience.
- Representation & Advocacy
- Represent the Kennedy Center at performances, nationally and internationally.
- Serve as an ambassador for the arts, positioning the Center as a hub of innovation and excellence.
- Advocate for the performing arts as essential to cultural vitality.
Required Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is an inspiring cultural leader who combines creative vision with executive acumen. They will bring a passion for the arts, a proven record of leadership, and the ability to influence both within and outside the organization.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of senior management experience in a world-class performing arts institution.
- Deep knowledge of multiple art forms with specialized expertise in at least one discipline.
- Demonstrated success as both an arts producer and presenter.
Skills & Attributes
- Strong leadership and mentorship abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
- Expertise in budget management, contract negotiation, and organizational strategy.
- Ability to balance creative innovation with operational demands.
Compensation & Benefits
The Kennedy Center offers a competitive salary range of $310,000 – $340,000, commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package. Employees enjoy:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with FSA and HSA options.
- Retirement plan with organizational matching.
- Paid leave, personal days, and 11 holidays annually.
- Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility.
- Staff ticket discounts and commuter benefits.
- A supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly through the Kennedy Center careers portal: www.kennedy-center.org
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.