November 17, 2022 – Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has been enlisted to find the next executive director for the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA). Wyona Lynch-McWhite, senior vice president, is leading the assignment for the search firm.
NEFA values an equitable, diverse, and inclusive world and is committed to hiring individuals who share, value, and support these goals, said ACG. The executive director will be expected to advance those values internally and externally. “They will be a creative and forward-thinking leader, fluent with issues in the greater national arts landscape, and understand the dynamics of cultural ecosystems across the U.S.,” the search firm said. “They will be committed to leading an organization with staff and board dedicated to anti-racist and equitable grantmaking and operational practices working toward new futures for artists, arts programming, artists relationships, and support.”
As the lead spokesperson and public face of NEFA, the executive director must have a passion for and comprehensive understanding of the organization’s mission, role, and potential as a regional arts organization, said ACG. The individual must develop a thorough knowledge of all the non-profit’s programs and how to leverage and amplify NEFA’s programs, funding, partnerships, stakeholders, organizational operations, and opportunities to advance the field.
The new leader must continue to elevate NEFA’s position as a driver of both regional and national initiatives, seeking opportunities to innovate and lead at both levels. This individual will be expected to strengthen and support a dedicated creative team, facilitating and aligning the work of staff and board around continued positive transformation and evolution. “They will establish strong authentic relationships with diverse constituents and communities,” said ACG. “They are expected to assess current programs and services and…