Executive Director — Leap Arts in Education (San Francisco Bay Area, CA)

Overview

Leap Arts in Education provides high-quality arts education programs that help students build skills to achieve their fullest potential. Founded in 1979, Leap currently serves over 10,000 students across 33 Bay Area schools—40% of whom attend low-income schools. Through creative residencies led by teaching artists, dancers, musicians, and architects, Leap strengthens students’ collaboration, confidence, and critical thinking while championing equity and access to the arts.

The Role

The Executive Director will lead Leap’s next chapter of growth, overseeing strategic partnerships, fundraising, and organizational leadership. Reporting to the Board of Directors and managing a small team—including the Program Director and Operations Manager—the ED will guide Leap’s $1M annual budget and ensure continued excellence in programming, community engagement, and equity-centered practices. This is an opportunity to advance arts education for Bay Area youth while shaping the future of an established and innovative organization.

What They’re Looking For

The ideal candidate brings 7–10 years of senior nonprofit leadership experience, with proven success in fundraising, strategic planning, and staff management. Candidates should have:

• A strong track record in individual giving, grants, and corporate partnerships
• Experience managing budgets, operations, and compliance
• Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Passion for arts education and empowering students through creative learning

Experience in the arts or education sectors, knowledge of Bay Area communities, and familiarity with hybrid work models are preferred.

Highlights

Salary range: $120,000–$135,000/year + health insurance, paid vacation, and professional development
Reports to: Board of Directors
Manages: 2 full-time staff, contract specialists, and outsourced finance team
Sector: Arts & Culture, Education, Youth Development
Location: Hybrid (San Francisco Bay Area)
Start date: December 15, 2025