Director, Smithsonian Theaters

Smithsonian Enterprises, a division of the Smithsonian Institution located in Washington DC, is currently seeking an experienced Director of Theaters who will be responsible for theater programming at the Smithsonian Institution’s IMAX theaters, Planetarium, Simulators and other entertainment. The ideal candidate will have broad industry contacts, and highly specialized experience to meet sales and marketing objectives that support the Smithsonian Institution educational mission, as well as increase division net gain.

Duties Include, but not limited to:

  • In conjunction with SVP, Retail Group, is accountable for annual operating plan and budget, and achievement of established financial objectives.
  • Manages film selection (balancing mission relevance, visitor experience, and revenue potential), booking and scheduling in conjunction with Marketing.
  • Develops and implements a plan for marketing films and the theatres in collaboration with Marketing and the Smithsonian museums.
  • Manages theater vendor relationships and complies with SI purchasing procedures.
  • Responsible for the preparation of theater long-term business plans in collaboration with Finance, Marketing, Operations and Museum partners.
  • Provides input to theater maintenance and directs modernization programs for physical assets including technical equipment specifications, selection, acquisition and installation.
  • Acts as the liaison with the host museums for theater programming and special events.
  • Devises, maintains and monitors controls of funds and assets in support of theater business.
  • Provides input into the development/refinement of Standard Operating Procedures for the theaters
  • Provides input into staff training for theater projectionists and technical staff
  • Provides input into and monitors reporting formats and systems for all theaters and planetarium.

Education, Skills and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university and ten to fifteen years related experience in the Film/Theater industry.

  • Comprehensive knowledge of the range of principles, concepts, and methodologies of managing and marketing a multi-screen and/or large-screen format theater.
  • Ability to organize and effectively collaborate with a diverse staff of colleagues.
  • Ability to formulate, develop and implement programs.
  • Knowledge of the identification, acquisition, development and contracting for film: content, scheduling, and marketing.
  • Knowledge of current and evolving projection, screen and sound technology, ticketing systems, and reporting systems are essential.
  • Ability to organize crowd control systems for high volume operations and communicate that knowledge to the Theater Operations management team.
  • Ability to plan, organize and execute special events.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in writing, with a wide range of people.
  • Ability to develop and administer budgetary programs, including reporting and evaluation functions.
  • Must possess comprehensive negotiation skills.

Salary: Up to $150,000, commensurate with experience.

To apply, please email resume and cover letter, including salary requirements, to: SECareers@si.edu

Please include job title in the subject line. Application materials received without salary information will not be considered.

We offer excellent benefit programs including Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Annual and Sick Leave Accrual, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Program, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care)

Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Final candidate selection will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of a pre-employment background check and subsequent background investigation. Employees are required to serve a one-year probationary period and participate in Direct Deposit for salary payment.

EOE. This is not a Federal Service position. Applicants must be U.S. employment eligible.

No phone calls, please. Relocation expenses are not paid.