Jobs & Internships

Title: Manager, Society for Contemporary Art

Position type: Full-time (generally 40 hours per week), Exempt

Hours: Variable, evenings and weekends required for onsite and offsite programming and events

Location: Art Institute of Chicago

Supervisor: Director

Salary: $50-60k

Benefits: PTO, paid holidays, health insurance stipend, and complimentary museum admission

BACKGROUND

Established in 1940 as a non-profit organization that supports the Art Institute of Chicago, The Society for Contemporary Art (SCA) promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of the current moment. SCA programs and events offer this insight to participants through accessing artists, leading critics, historians, curators, dealers, distinguished private collections, and major art destinations within the United States and abroad. The SCA has also contributed substantially to the museum’s collection and presentations of contemporary art through its acquisition program, special initiatives, and exhibition support.

POSITION SUMMARY

The full-time Manager plays a pivotal role in managing memberships and executing impactful programs and events that align with the SCA’s mission. Reporting to the Director, this role combines administrative expertise with public-facing responsibilities, ensuring an exceptional experience for members and program participants. As part of a small, dedicated team, you will contribute to SCA’s success by balancing operational excellence with creativity and innovation.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Work Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Art History, English, Arts Administration, Communications, Marketing, or another related applied field.

• 3-5 years of administration experience, preferably in a museum or cultural institution setting.

• Marketing communications experience, including social media content development.

• Budget and data management experience.

Technical Expertise:

• Proficient in Microsoft and Google Suites, Adobe Suite, WordPress, and Stripe.

• Excellent budget and data analysis skills, including using Excel sheet and CRM systems.

• Strong writing skills and experience with social media platforms.

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and strong interpersonal skills.

• A self-starter with strong initiative and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to prioritize, work independently, and multi-task.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and flexible.

ORGANIZATIONAL EXPECTATIONS

• Champion the mission of the SCA, actively promoting the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of contemporary art through diverse programs and events at SCA and beyond.

• Serve and collaborate with the organization’s board of directors, members, colleagues at the Art Institute of Chicago, and guests with high professionalism, collegiality, and understanding of organizational priorities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Membership Development and Management

• Manage member registration, renewals, upgrades, and inquiries

• Maintain the membership database

• Create and send engaging renewal communications.

• Process and acknowledge donations promptly.

• Generate and analyze membership reports to track growth and engagement.

Marketing and Communications

• Assist in developing and executing a strategic marketing plan.

• Maintain a content calendar and produce newsletters and website updates.

• Develop and manage compelling social media content.

• Publish approved content across SCA’s digital platforms.

• Create segmented audience lists for targeted communications.

• Prepare marketing performance reports and offer insights to enhance engagement.

Programming and Member Events

• Plan and execute 20+ annual programs, including artist lectures, exhibition tours, private collection visits, and fundraising events.

• Oversee guest list management, RSVPs, and event logistics.

• Process event-related payments and invoices.

• Prepare attendance analysis and financial analysis for all programs.

• Coordinate travel, accommodations, and hospitality for visiting speakers.

• Arrange hospitality during programs and liaise with vendors.

General Administration

• Prepare meeting presentations and special events.

• Track and organize financial, membership, attendance, and other data.

• Support system updates and improvements.

• Organize the institution archive, contact lists, documentation, inventory, and office supplies.

• Maintain physical and digital filing systems.

• Attend weekly check-in meetings with the Director.

• Serve as the temporary point of contact for the organization when the Director is away.

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Please submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF with “Manager” in the subject line to: hiring.sca@gmail.com. For more information on our organization, visit www.scaaic.org.