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Moxie Cinema launches search for new Executive Director

Springfield, MO – With Moxie Cinema’s longtime Executive Director Mike Stevens announcing plans to step down as leader of the downtown theater in spring 2024, applications are now open for the next person to lead Springfield’s only independent movie house.

“It has been the best job in the world, but I am ready for a new challenge,” said Stevens. “I will be around to make sure the transition goes smoothly, but I am very excited to see what a new leader will have in store for my favorite movie theater in the world.”

Stevens has been the Executive Director since 2010 when a newly formed nonprofit entity purchased the movie theater from Moxie Cinema founders Dan and Nicole Chilton.

The Moxie’s volunteer Board of Directors is accepting applications. Interested candidates can send a resume and cover letter to Board President Stephanie Stenger at info@moxiecinema.com. The full job description is available at moxiecinema.com on the NEWS & EVENTS page.

There are no immediate plans for any other changes at the two-screen arthouse theater, which has been in business downtown since 2004, said Stephanie Stenger, president of the Moxie Cinema Board of Directors.

“It’s hard for me to think of the Moxie without thinking of ‘Moxie Mike,’ but I am excited for him,” said Stenger. “As a movie-lover, I am thankful for the 14 years he made sure great films kept coming to Springfield. As Board President, I am very thankful he helped build a robust membership program that has allowed us to expand our ambitions even as the movie theater business at large is struggling.”

The deadline for first consideration of Executive Director applicants is Jan. 31, 2024.

“We’re looking for an energetic, adaptable movie lover to take the Moxie into the future,” Stenger said.

Attached is the job description for the Executive Director position.


Job Opening: Executive Director
FLSA Status: Full time, exempt
Date: January 2024
Reports to: Board of Directors
Salary: Target range is $45-$55K but commensurate with experience

Moxie Cinema seeks an energetic, adaptable movie lover to become its next Executive Director. The Moxie is the Ozarks premier arthouse movie theater, bringing the best in cinema to Springfield, MO since 2004. As a non-profit, we exist to enrich our community through film's power to engage, educate, and inspire. Yes, we show movies and sell tickets, but at our core, we exist to make our community a better place to live. Come help us live up to this mission!

Job Description
The Executive Director is responsible for the leadership, management, and financial stewardship of The Moxie Cinema consistent with the strategic direction set forth by the Board of Directors. Responsibilities include day-to-day management of our two-screen theater; overseeing the finances and fundraising; as well as serving as the public “face” of the Moxie.

Responsibilities include:

Leadership:

  • Provide direction and vision for the organization and its diverse group of stakeholders from longtime members and staff to community partners and our board
  • Serve as the voice and face of the organization to donors, members, and the larger community in public appearances; through marketing channels; and at the theater itself
  • Help craft, implement, and report on a strategic plan with clear, measurable goals
  • Ensure that programming upholds our mission and generates sufficient revenue
  • Monitor and integrate changing industry trends whether its technology or programming

Administration/Operations:

  • Management of day-to-day theater operations including everything from scheduling showtimes to ordering concessions
  • Manage staff including hiring, training, and supervision
  • Oversee maintenance and upgrades of equipment and facility
  • Develop and oversee annual marketing and communication plans
  • Manage Board and committee meetings

Financial Planning and Management:

  • Develop the annual operating budget
  • Daily bookkeeping duties from check writing to processing bi-weekly payroll
  • Prepare and deliver financial reports for Board meetings
  • Overseeing annual tax returns as well as managing relevant federal, state, and city tax payments

Fundraising/Development:

  • Create and implement comprehensive fundraising plan and strategy that includes a robust membership program (500+ members); grant writing and administration; corporate support; and annual fundraising events like our Black & White gala
  • Cultivate, inform, and support donors of all levels

To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter telling us why you should be the Moxie’s new Executive Director, along with a resume and three references to info@moxiecinema.com

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

A bachelor’s degree is preferred as is at least two years of professional experience. Preference will be given for the following: Supervisory or management experience; familiarity with basic bookkeeping and budgeting; familiarity/facility with a wide variety of software from Microsoft Office products to point of sale systems.

Working conditions:

The position will require some evening and weekend work. Hours are generally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, but will vary based on special screenings; emerging events and fundraising efforts.

Office space is provided for this position and some flexibility is available to work remotely during hours when the theater is closed to the public.

The physical requirements for this position include sitting for periods of time; standing for periods of time; the ability to climb very steep stairs (up to 10) to projection booths; the ability to push, pull or lift up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable assistance.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The Downtown Springfield Community Cinema, dba Moxie Cinema, does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.