NOW HIRING: Director

ABOUT AAWAA

The mission of the Asian American Women Artists Association (AAWAA) is to advance the visibility and recognition of Asian American women in the arts. Through exhibitions, publications, public programs and an informative website, AAWAA is an accessible resource and portal for educators, academics, researchers, arts and social justice communities and the general public.

Based in San Francisco, AAWAA has consistently promoted both local and national efforts to achieve its mission, defining and redefining the contributions of Asian American women artists since its founding in 1989 by noted regional artists Betty Kano and Flo Oy Wong along with Mills College professor Moira Roth and artist Bernice Bing. Established as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 2007, AAWAA has evolved from a close-knit community organization into a respected producer of consistent high-quality multidisciplinary art exhibitions, community art projects, publications, and programming reaching diverse local and national audiences.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Director on staff oversees the implementation of the vision, direction and management of the Asian American Women Artists Association, in accordance with the strategic plan set by the Board of Directors. Responsibilities include staff and project management, development, finance and operations. The Director is an enthusiastic leader and deeply passionate about connecting and empowering artists and art professionals in and beyond the Asian American community. The Director works in a team environment with key members of the Board of Directors and Staff and reports directly to the Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities & Duties:

Staff and Project Management (5-7 hours per week)

  • Manage and oversee a team of at least 3-4 employees, including Programs & Communications Manager, Membership Coordinator, and Accounting Specialist, along with contractors

  • Meet weekly with staff to check in on tasks, updates and goals

  • Conduct one-on-one evaluations with staff at least once per year to assess individual interests, goals and positions

  • Manage employee benefits and rights in accordance with city and state law

  • Interview, hire, train and onboard new employees and contractors as needed

  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors to promote the wellness of staff to create a healthy, positive and safe work environment

Finance and Development (8-10 hours per week)

  • Manage cash flow, project budgets and organizational budget of at least $200,000 per year

  • Apply to city, state and foundation grants and other opportunities in collaboration with staff for project and general operations funding

  • Direct and manage annual fundraising campaigns with an annual starting goal of at least $30,000

  • Manage, maintain and develop key donor and funder relationships in collaboration with the Board of Directors

  • Represent AAWAA at public events and programs produced by AAWAA and/or partnering organizations in collaboration with the Board of Directors

  • Attend community events and networking opportunities time permitting

Operations (4-6 hours per week)

  • Oversee general management of the organization in accordance with the strategic direction set forth by the Board of Directors 

  • Develop, maintain and implement procedures, platforms and management systems for the general operations of the organization 

  • Sign certificates, notes, agreements, and other instruments made and entered into and on behalf of the organization 

  • Track and sign off on operational documents essential to maintaining the organization’s nonprofit status, funding eligibility and insurance

  • Provide monthly reports on staff, programs, development, finance, operations and other items and goals to Board of Directors

Qualifications

  • Nonprofit management experience of at least 3 years

  • A deep knowledge of arts organizing and existing relationships with artists and art professionals 

  • A working knowledge and relationship with Asian American contexts, diasporas and/or histories. Identifying with the power and experience of Asian American women and gender expensive individuals in common struggles against racism, patriarchy, sexism and misogyny is ideal.

  • Knowledge, practice and experience with current topics of social justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and accessibility across multiple intersections of identity not limited to race, gender and diaspora

  • An excellent communicator with experience in responsibly serving in a public facing role

  • Works collaboratively in managing teams and community building

  • A leader with an awareness and understanding of values related to artistic creativity, empowerment, wellness, sustainability and more.

  • Detail oriented and avid administrative experience

  • Must have experience with online platforms such as Gmail, Quickbooks, Google Admin, Google Drive and Spreadsheets. 

Current Compensation:

Part-time, average 23 hours per week at $27/hour. $32,292 annual salary, paid monthly.

TO APPLY for the position, YOU MUST SUBMIT:

  • Your Resume

  • Cover Letter

  • 2 References ( include emails and phone numbers)

Send applications to applications@aawaa.net with subject title “Re: Director Position” no later than February 9, 2026 @ 12PM PT. Please no inquiries at this time.

Blog PostMelanie ElvenaAsian American Women Artists Association