The Board of Directors of the Wayne Theatre Alliance, Inc. (WTA) and the Wayne Theatre Alliance Foundation, Inc. (WTAF: the Foundation is in the process of being created) seeks the next Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer for both the WTA and WTAF. The historic Wayne Theatre is a major nonprofit arts organization in Waynesboro, Virginia. In 2026, the theatre is celebrating its 100th anniversary of originally opening in 1926 and its renovation and re-opening in 2016. The organization has significant regional and national visibility and is a member of the League of American Historic Theatres (LHAT). Reporting to the Board of Directors of the WTA, the Executive Director serves as a creative force and advocate for the organization within the local arts community and beyond. Reporting to the Board of Directors of the WTAF, the Executive Director serves as the individual who oversees the protection of the assets of the theatre, including its endowment and facilities.
The combined positionrequires visionary leadership and an individual committed to the theatre’s mission. The Executive Director/CEO reports to the WTA’s and WTAF’s Board of Directors through the Board Chair (presently, the same individual). The Executive Director/CEO manages the staff of the theatre (employees and independent contractors) and the volunteer corps. In addition, the Executive Director/CEO is the lead spokesperson and representative of the theatre, operations, and programs. The primary functions of the WTA Executive Director/CEO are organized around administration and education, board governance, external relations, financial and facilities management, and human resources. The primary functions of the WTAF Executive Director/CEO are organized around endowment stewardship, long-term management of facilities, and working with an investment committee and a contracted financial management firm.
About the Wayne Theatre
The Wayne Theatre has had quite a history of making an impact in its community since it first opened its doors as a vaudeville house in 1926. Its reopening in 2016 was fueled by a handful of community members who had the vision of what the Wayne could mean to the City of Waynesboro, Augusta County, and the surrounding region in Virginia. The restoration of the theatre was done by the community, for the community, and is ultimately given back to the community. The dream was that when the restoration was complete, the theatre would be a gift to the community where all ages could come together to be educated, enriched, enlightened, and enchanted. The theatre produces several shows each year; presents concerts, movies, and traveling plays; and offers numerous educational opportunities, including providing in-school instruction, individual lessons, and other workshops through its Studio Wayne operation. In FY 2026, nearly 23,000 individuals attended performances and shows at the Wayne. Approximately 345 students participated in its educational programs (classes, workshops, school partnerships, student productions) in FY 2026, and nearly 2,450 students attended field trip programs during the same year.The theatre has an endowment of more than $2 million and an annual budget of nearly $1.9 million. There are eight full-time employees of the theatre, including the executive director. Its operation is supported by a dedicated group of more than 350 volunteers who help host events, serve as ushers, assist with set construction, and staff the concession booth. The theatre also has an art gallery, and the facility may be rented to external organizations. Each year, the theatre’s annual gala secures more than $150,000 in philanthropic dollars to support the operation. The Board of Directors of the Wayne Theatre Alliance is comprised of 13-18 individuals, and the board meets six times a year. The Board of Directors of the Wayne Theatre Alliance Foundation, once appointed, will be the same as the WTA directors but will likely evolve over time.
Waynesboro and Augusta County, Virginia
Waynesboro is a medium-sized independent city tucked into the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, offering a blend of historic small-town charm, strong access to outdoor recreation, and a stable manufacturing and service economy. It is located in the heart of Augusta County, which includes the communities of Stuarts Draft, Fishersville, and Staunton, in addition to Waynesboro. Two major interstates (I-81 and I-64) run through the county. The county is home to a K-12 city school system, a county school system, and several private schools. In addition, the region is home to Blue Ridge Community College, Bridgewater College, Eastern Mennonite University, James Madison University, Mary Baldwin University, Southern Virginia University, Virginia Military Institute, Washington and Lee University, and the University of Virginia. Excellent medical care is offered in the region through the Augusta, Sentara, and University of Virginia health systems. Waynesboro is 90 minutes from Richmond, and Washington, D.C., is approximately two and a half hours away.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Administration
★ In consultation with the senior staff, administer the day-to-day operations and performances at the theatre
★ In consultation with the Director of Finance, evaluate all performances in terms of cost, attendance, and return on investment
Arts and Cultural Education
★ Support and assist the Director of Education to develop and implement the annual curriculum offerings for Studio Wayne and secure personnel as appropriate
★ Support the Director of Education in managing relationships with educational institutions to provide arts instruction in local schools.
★ In consultation with the senior staff, continue to develop and present an annual season of productions that appeal to a wide range of audiences and different demographic populations, including concerts, contract performances, films, educational programs, and outreach events
★ In consultation with the Artistic Director, develop a season of plays and musicals that are financially viable and that align with the mission, resources, and financial objectives
★ Curate the exhibit gallery displays and work with the Art Committee to select exhibits
Board Governance
★ In consultation with the Board Chair and Executive Committee, develop agendas for the meetings of the Board of Directors
★ In coordination with the Board Secretary, organize agenda and meeting materials in advance of the meetings of the Board of Directors
★ Staff the Facilities, Finance, Development, Governance, Mission, and Personnel committees of the board, as well as associated governing subcommittees, task forces, and workgroups
★ Working with the Governance Committee Chair, recruit, orient, utilize, and thank members of the Board of Directors
★ Facilitate committee appointments each fiscal year in consultation with the Board Chair and the leadership of the various committees
★ Guide the development of strategic plans, monitor progress toward completion of goals and objectives, and provide annual status reports to the Board of Directors
★ In consultation with the Board Chair and the Governance Committee, plan for the annual board retreat and additional board-development programs and initiatives
★ Maintain good relations with individual board members and establish consistent communication strategies to ensure that all directors are well-informed so that they may be effective advocates for the organization
Data and Technology Management
★ Lead the organization's data, technology, and business systems to ensure information is accurate, secure, and available to support daily operations and decision-making
★ Develop and implement a technology strategy that supports the theatre’s mission and the needs of departments including ticketing, fundraising, finance, marketing, and operations
★ Oversee the management, integration, and improvement of key business systems to increase efficiency, improve reporting, and enhance service to patrons and staff
★ Work closely with senior leadership to identify technology improvements, streamline processes, and support innovation across the organization
★ Collect and utilize data to evaluate organizational performance and inform decision-making; establish systems for measuring audience engagement, marketing effectiveness, program outcomes, and financial performance, and use those insights to continuously improve the organization's operations
Development and External Relations
★ Represent the Wayne Theatre as its primary spokesperson within the greater Waynesboro community and beyond
★ Develop and manage a comprehensive fundraising program, including annual giving (Partner in the Arts), planned giving (Encore Society), and major outright gifts
★ Determine a timeline and other requirements for a potential comprehensive campaign
★ Create and distribute marketing communications (television, radio, print, web, social) to attract patrons and donors
★ Provide direction for annual fundraising events (i.e., Wayne Theatre Gala; Chili, Brews, and Blues Festival)
★ Secure sponsorships to underwrite select performances throughout the fiscal year and season for the theatre
★ Collaborate with the Board of Directors and development personnel to secure support from regional corporations and businesses
★ Develop partnerships with other local, state, and regional entities to secure additional support for Wayne Theatre programs and initiatives
★ Evaluate grant (local, state, regional, national, governmental) opportunities; submit proposals when appropriate; and complete reporting requirements
★ Establish a strategy for providing excellent donor stewardship and recognition, including the presentation of awards and distribution of thank-you correspondence.
★ Conduct prospect research and share information with staff and volunteers as appropriate in preparation for the solicitation of gifts
★ Travel on behalf of the organization as appropriate
★ Cultivate strong ties with local patrons, community members, and donors to expand the theatre’s impact and reach
★ Ensure that all patrons and personnel feel welcome and appreciated throughout all interactions at the theatre or other performance venues
Facilities Management
★ Acquire, implement, and utilize technology (performance and administrative equipment/software platforms) to enhance production and the work of the staff
★ In conjunction with the Operations and Box Office Manager, approve and manage pricing for theatre rentals and oversee relationships with event organizers
Financial Considerations
★ Negotiate and monitor all non-facilities contracts for the theatre, including those for personnel, services, and production rights
★ In consultation with the Treasurer (a member of the Board of Directors) and the Director of Finance, develop and present an annual budget for the WTA for the upcoming fiscal year with the goals of ensuring fiscal stability and financial growth
★ Monitor expenses and income to budget; prepare quarterly reports for review by the Board of Directors
★ Identify cost-saving and revenue-generating opportunities throughout the fiscal year
★ Complete the annual audit in a timely fashionn
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Human Resources
★ Participate in the hiring, management, and evaluation of all personnel
★ Directly supervise senior leadership positions in education, arts, finance, development, and operations and facilitate solid working relationships between the members of the team
★ Identify staffing requirements to meet the mission and operations of the organization
★ Develop a strategy for an annual evaluation of each employee and review of job descriptions to ensure that position descriptions align with actual responsibilities
★ Provide professional development opportunities, as finances allow, for all personnel through the course of the fiscal year
★ Research, evaluate, and implement employee retention best practices
★ Advocate on behalf of all employees to ensure salaries are competitive with market expectations
★ Oversee the work of volunteers; develop strategies to recruit, orient, utilize, and thank as appropriate
Summary – WTA Executive Director/CEO
The Executive Director/CEO of the historic Wayne Theatre is the chief executive officer and the leadership position responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Ross Performing Arts Center, the educational programs of Studio Wayne, and the activities of the WTA Board of Directors. The Executive Director/CEO is a strong and inspirational leader for the diverse stakeholders of the Wayne Theatre. The individual is expected to set a clear direction for the organization. The Executive Director/CEO implements and enhances the organization’s strategic goals, supports and sustains fundraising initiatives and programming, oversees programmatic decisions and development, and leads the staff for the successful day-to-day operations of the theatre. The Executive Director/CEO is a positive role model for the organization, valuing diversity and collaboration and fostering an organization that is inclusive and equitable.
Summary – WTAF Executive Director/CEO
The Executive Director/CEO of the Wayne Theatre Alliance Foundation is the chief executive officer and leadership position responsible for managing the assets of the theatre, including but not limited to its real estate holdings, facilities, and endowment. The WTAF Executive Director/CEO supports the activities of the WTAF Board of Directors, ensures endowment donors receive timely and appreciative reports, evaluates the effectiveness of investment strategies, and facilitates long-term planning for the care, growth, and maintenance of the theatre’s real estate holdings.
Responsibilities Development and External Relations
★ Provide endowment donorswith annual activity reports reflecting corpus balance, market value, and useof funds
Facilities Management
★ Develop and implement a comprehensive facilities management program, including a regular review of safety considerations, maintenance schedule, and renovation requirements
★ Foster growth through the development and implementation of the comprehensive master plans with considerations of related comprehensive campaign efforts
★ Work with Real Estate Committee to assess current and future maintenance, construction, and renovation activities and implement as appropriate
Financial Considerations
★ Negotiate and monitor all facilities contracts for the theatre
★ In consultation with the Treasurer (a member of the Board of Directors) and the Director of Finance, develop and present an annual budget for the WTAF for the upcoming fiscal year
★ Monitor expenses and income to budget; prepare quarterly reports for review by the WTAF Board of Directors
★ Complete the annual audit in a timely fashion
★ In consultation with the Investment Committee, develop investment strategies and monitor the activities of contracted financial advisory firm, particularly as related to the endowment
Qualifications
★ Education: bachelor’s degree, with a master’s degree preferred (in business, education,leadership, nonprofit management, or arts management)
★ Experience: seven to ten years of experience in nonprofit administration
★ Strong financial management skills, including experience with budget creation and oversight
★ Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and capital campaign management
★ Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including patrons, volunteers, community leaders, and business partners
★ Experience in producing events, managing programming, and overseeing outreach programs is preferred
★ Passion for arts, culture, and education, and with a deep commitment to community engagement
Personal Characteristics
★ Demonstrate orientation toward performance and achievement of qualitative and quantitative goals and benchmarks
★ A hands-on business sense and appreciation of the importance of the business side of nonprofit administration
★ Comfortable with ambiguity; flexible and adaptable
★ Charismatic, with the ability to motivate others on behalf of the theatre
★ Strong team orientation, with comfort as both a leader and a participant
★ Demonstrated understanding of the importance of the value of the arts
Compensation
The salary range for the position is $100k-$115k, and the salary will be commensurate with experience and education. The theatre offers the following benefits: health insurance, 401k contributions, free parking, andpaid time off for sick and vacation leave.
Application Process
Individuals who wish to have a confidential conversation may contact Tara Singer, Vice Chair, Board of Directors, at tara@waynetheatre.org to discuss this opportunity. To apply for the position, please provide the following:
★ Coverletter
★ Resume/curriculumvitae
★ List of references, including information about the relationship to the reference (i.e., supervisor, colleague) and contact details
Application materials should be emailed to tara@waynetheatre.org. While the position is open until filled, preferred consideration will be given to candidates who submit materials by October 31, 2026
The Wayne opened on January 18, 1926, with plans to be a vaudeville/movie house. It advertised itself as the “finest theatre in the Shenandoah Valley.” It had an orchestra pit with organ, and a small “Wayne Orchestra” entertained the audience before the program.
● In 1929, the Wayne installed a “talking machine” by RCA which allowed the Wayne to show talkies.
● In 1949, the boom times in Waynesboro led to expansion of the Wayne and the removal of nearly all of the original elements.
● In 1980, a fire gutted the Wayne and the owners converted it into a twin cinema.
● In 1999, the owners closed the theatre and deeded the structure to the city of Waynesboro.
● In 2000, to prevent the demolishing of the Wayne, a group of citizens incorporated the Wayne Theatre Alliance as a 501 (c) 3 with the goal of renovating the theatre.
● On March 1, 2016, the Wayne Theatre, historically restored, artistically updated and technologically current, opened to the public as a performing arts center.
● In 2019 the Wayne team renamed education programs to “Studio Wayne” and purchased the final building on the block to expand the Wayne campus.
● April 1, 2020 the Wayne team launched a virtual format and installed a state-of-the-art VMIX system to bring quality performances to home everywhere.
● In 2022, created a permanent home for Studio Wayne at 535 W. Main Street and begin revitalizing the 531 MainStreet Building.
In 1949, the boom times in Waynesboro led to expansion of the Wayne and the removal of nearly all of the original elements.
In 2000, to prevent the demolishing of the Wayne, a group of citizens incorporated the Wayne Theatre Alliance as a 501 (c) 3 with the goal of renovating the theatre.
On March 1, 2016, the Wayne Theatre, historically restored, artistically updated and technologically current, opened to the public as a performing arts center.
In 2022, created a permanent home for Studio Wayne at 535 W. Main Street and begin revitalizing the 531 MainStreet Building.
