Historic Paramount Theatre Job Title: Executive Director

June 11, 2026

Job Description: 

Position Summary
The Executive Director will serve as the Historic Paramount Theatre’s (Paramount) senior administrative and strategic leader, driving daily operations, stewarding finances, supervising staff, and partnering with the Board of Directors while keeping the theatre active, stable, and deeply connected to Abilene. This person will maintain the Paramount’s programming model, build strong civic and cultural relationships, work closely with the Chief Financial Officer on budgeting and cash flow, and lead the creation of the organization’s first strategic plan.

They will be a dynamic, community minded ambassador who brings strong communication skills, sound financial judgment, and collaborative leadership to development, programming, and external relations. This leader will strengthen donor and foundation relationships, oversee grants, sponsorships, restoration projects, marketing, and programming, and advance a refreshed artistic direction that reduces dark days, broadens audiences, and deepens the Paramount’s civic impact. They will guide planning for the 2030 centennial and champion accessible programming that welcomes new audiences and supports downtown revitalization.

Organization
Designed and built in 1930 by architect David Castle, the Historic Paramount Theatre is one of West Texas’s most treasured cultural landmarks. A stunning example of the nostalgic “atmospheric” movie palace, the theatre was created during an era when attending the cinema was intended to be a grand and immersive experience. The main auditorium was designed to resemble a Spanish/Moorish courtyard at night, complete with drifting projected clouds, twinkling stars, and a neon-lit sky that transported audiences to another world.

Restored in 1987 and renovated to accommodate live theatre performances, the Paramount has evolved into a vibrant multidisciplinary performing arts venue serving the Abilene community and surrounding region. Today, the theatre hosts a broad range of programming, including concerts, film screenings, ballet, opera, touring productions, comedy performances, educational programming, and community events. For nearly 100 years, the Paramount has remained a defining entertainment destination and an enduring symbol of the cultural life of West Texas.

The theatre’s programming is intentionally broad and diverse. Each year features between 150 and 170 nights of live performances or active rental use. Numerous local nonprofit organizations utilize the Paramount as their performance home, and facility rentals remain a significant source of earned revenue. Though originally constructed as a movie palace, films continue to be screened throughout the year. Paramount Productions has presented an annual summer musical for more than 30 years and produces a children’s musical each January. Since 2020, the theatre has also produced twice-yearly cabaret performances that have become highly popular with audiences. In 2022, the organization expanded its focus on touring concerts and stand-up comedy events; what began as a goal of four touring presentations in the first year grew to more than 30 such events in 2025. Additional earned revenue is generated through concessions and bar sales.

Recent upgrades and restoration projects demonstrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to preserving and modernizing the facility. Improvements include a new downstairs concessions area and bar (2025), expansion into the adjacent Wooten Hotel for additional office space (2024), complete LED stage lighting replacement (2025), mezzanine chair replacement (2023), installation of a new house audio system (2021), and a new digital projector (2021). In summer 2026, the theatre will undertake a nearly $400,000 marquee replacement project featuring a new LED marquee system. A donor-funded architectural lighting and safety enhancement project totaling approximately $1.5 million is also underway.

The Paramount has a 17-member board of directors led by Chair Ronalyn Sutphen. The Executive Director reports to the board of directors and oversees six full-time staff members and 40 part-time staff members. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, Paramount reported total revenue of $2.1 million, including 49% from contributions and 51% from earned revenue sources. The projected revenue for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, is $1.7 million, including 54% from contributions and 46% from earned revenue sources.

Sources: edited from paramountabilene.com; propublica.org

Community
Located in the heart of West Texas, Abilene is a mid-sized city of approximately 125,000 residents known for its welcoming atmosphere, strong civic identity, and rich historical heritage. Founded during the cattle-drive era of the late nineteenth century, the city has grown into a regional center for education, healthcare, commerce, and military service while maintaining the character of a close-knit community. Abilene is home to three universities: Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University, which contribute significantly to the city’s educational and cultural vitality. The community is also deeply connected to Dyess Air Force Base, one of only two U.S. installations that house the B-1 Bomber, making military tradition and service an important part of local identity.

Abilene offers residents a high quality of life with affordable living, family-oriented neighborhoods, and a growing downtown district that has become a center for dining, entertainment, and cultural activity. Recreational attractions include the Abilene Zoo, Frontier Texas!, and the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, alongside a broad network of parks, trails, and community amenities maintained by the City of Abilene. Ongoing downtown revitalization efforts, including the Cypress Street Improvement Project and the Downtown Pedestrian Plaza, continue to strengthen the city’s walkability, economic vitality, and appeal as a regional destination for arts, culture, and tourism. Community events, festivals, and arts programming contribute to an active civic environment, and the city is widely regarded as one of the best places in Texas to raise a family due to its strong schools, engaged community, and accessible lifestyle.

Sources: abilenetx.gov; census.gov

Roles and Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership & Administration
- Provide overall leadership and direction for the organization’s operations, staff, and programming.
- Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate all full-time staff members.
- Foster a collaborative and mission-driven organizational culture.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable licensing and regulatory requirements, including TABC regulations.
- Embrace other organizational leadership and administration responsibilities as needed.

Financial Management
- Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop and present the annual operating budget for board approval each March.
- Oversee implementation of and adherence to the approved budget.
- Work closely with the Board and CFO to manage organizational cash flow and steward banking reserves.
- Review and approve all company expenditures, with expenditures over $5,000 requiring a second signature from the Board.
- Work with staff to establish pricing for goods and services and determine inventory and merchandise offerings.
- Embrace other financial management responsibilities as needed.

Governance & Board Relations
- Prepare for and participate in all meetings of the Board of Directors, including providing timely reports, recommendations, and updates on organizational operations and strategic priorities.
- Implement directives and policies established by the Board of Directors.
- Engage and support board members in fundraising initiatives, long-range planning, and organizational strategy.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Paramount and the building owners.
- Embrace other governance and board-relations responsibilities as needed.

Programming & Artistic Oversight
- Lead the programming, negotiation, and contracting for Paramount Road Shows and other live performances presented by the organization.
- Oversee film programming, including selections made by committees and staff.
- Ensure programming aligns with the mission, audience interests, and financial goals of the Paramount.
- Embrace other programming and artistic oversight responsibilities as needed.

Development & Fundraising
- Serve as the organization’s primary development contact.
- Oversee grant funding strategies, donor cultivation and stewardship, and corporate sponsorship relationships.
- Support and guide fundraising initiatives in partnership with staff and the Board of Directors.
- Embrace other development and fundraising responsibilities as needed.

Marketing & Community Relations
- Produce, oversee, or approve all marketing and promotional materials and campaigns.
- Represent the Paramount within the community and serve as the primary spokesperson at public events, partnerships, and community engagements.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with patrons, community stakeholders, donors, sponsors, and partner organizations.
- Embrace other marketing and community relations responsibilities as needed.

Facilities & Capital Improvements
- Identify, secure funding for, and oversee all restoration, maintenance, and capital improvement projects related to the Paramount.
- Ensure the long-term preservation and operational functionality of the Paramount.
- Embrace other facilities and capital improvements responsibilities as needed.

Traits and Characteristics
The Executive Director will be an engaging and people-oriented leader who values communication, collaboration, and relationship-building across a broad range of stakeholders. This individual will demonstrate versatility and adaptability, navigating frequent change and shifting priorities with confidence and ease. Grounded in intuition, experience, and thoughtful decision-making, the Executive Director will bring a harmonious and balanced leadership style that fosters trust and stability within the organization. The Executive Director will also be resourceful and receptive, combining practical problem-solving skills with openness to new ideas, opportunities, and innovative approaches that advance Paramount’s mission and long-term success.

Other key competencies include:
- Personal Accountability and Diplomacy – The capacity to be answerable for personal actions and effectively and tactfully handle difficult or sensitive issues.
- Time and Priority Management – The ability to prioritize and complete tasks in order to deliver desired outcomes within allotted time frames.
- Leadership – The capability to organize and influence people to believe in a vision while creating a sense of purpose and direction.
- Teamwork – The aptitude to cooperate with others to meet objectives.
- Decision Making – The faculty to analyze all aspects of a situation to make consistently sound and timely decisions.
- Problem Solving and Resiliency – The competence to quickly recover from adversity and solve problems effectively.

Qualifications
Two to three years of senior leadership experience in a historic theatre, professional arts organization, or relevant business setting are expected. A bachelor’s degree in the arts or a related field is preferred. The ability to build and sustain a high performing team is essential, as is experience with fundraising at varying levels. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the capacity to represent the Paramount to diverse audiences and donors, are important. If you do not meet all the qualifications but possess transferable or equivalent skills, experience, or education, we encourage you to apply and highlight those areas.

Compensation and Benefits
The Paramount provides a competitive and equitable compensation package with an estimated salary range of $110,000 to $125,000. Benefits include paid time off and comprehensive employee support programs designed to promote work-life balance and long-term financial wellness. Full-time employees receive 12 vacation days annually, with additional accrual based on years of service, along with 12 sick days per year. Health insurance premiums for employee-only coverage are paid 100% by Paramount, with eligibility beginning on the first of the month after 60 days of service. Employees also have the opportunity to participate in a 403(b) retirement plan with up to a 6% employer match after 90 days of employment.

Applications and Inquiries
To submit a cover letter and resume with a summary of demonstrable accomplishments (electronic submissions preferred), please click here or visit ArtsConsulting.com/OpenSearches. For questions or general inquiries about this job opportunity, please contact:

Flora Stamatiades, Vice President
Tel (888) 234.4236 Ext. 238
Email HistoricParamount@ArtsConsulting.com

The Historic Paramount Theatre is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences.

Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Flora Stamatiades
Contact Email: HistoricParamount@ArtsConsulting.com
Contact Phone: 888 234 4236

La Porte ISD Campus: Lomax JH Job Title: Theatre teacher

August 13, 2026
Job Description: Great 7th-8th grade campus. Very supportive administration and district of theatre traditions! Late job opening!  Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Dr. Matthew Burke Contact Email: burkem@lpisd.orgf Contact Phone: 281-636-8189

Ector County ISD Campus: Vasquez Middle School Job Title: Theatre Teacher

August 6, 2026
Job Description: New School. New Auditorium. Build your own program. Primary Purpose: Provide students with appropriate in-person and distance or virtual instruction designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical and social growth. Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society. Qualifications: Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements or related training and work experience for certification waivers under the District of Innovation Plan (DOI) Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of subjects assigned General knowledge of curriculum and instructional best practices for online learning Strong knowledge of Internet and web-related technology Ability to instruct students and manage behavior Ability to instruct students using a variety of technology applications and platforms Strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills Ability to support students with computer set-up, navigation, and technology issues Experience: Student teaching or approved internship, or related work experience Major Responsibilities and Duties: Develop and implement plans that fulfill the requirements of the district’s curriculum program assigned and show written evidence of preparation as required Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in learning styles in students Present the subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies, and administrative regulations Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, equipment, and technology that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned and present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies, and administrative regulations. Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan instructional activities Work cooperatively with special education teachers to modify curricula as needed for special education according to guidelines established in Individual Education Plans (IEP) Work with other members of the staff to determine instructional goals, objectives, and methods in accordance with district requirements Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for teacher aide(s) and/or volunteer(s) Help students analyze and improve study methods and habits Provide timely feedback to students and track progress through a variety of methods. Conduct ongoing assessment and feedback related to student achievement through formal and informal methods. Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by the school Be a positive role model for students, support the mission of the school district Create an in-person and virtual classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students. Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials Be available by phone, email, or video conferencing to confer with district personnel, students, and/or parents. Effectively communicate to present information accurately and clearly to students and parents on a regular basis in person, via phone, video conference, email, or district-approved website. Maintain a professional relationship with all colleagues, students, parents, and community members Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly Participate in staff development activities to improve job related skills Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required. 25. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.  Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Reymundo Montoya Contact Email: reymundo.montoya@ectorcountyisd.org Contact Phone: 8064206105

Liberty Hill ISD Campus: Liberty Hill High School Job Title: Facilities specialist, Auditorium Manager

August 6, 2026
Job Description: We are looking for someone to run the Auditorium for district events and outside rentals. It is a 40 hour per week position on a 226 day contract.  Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Luis Portillo Contact Email: Lportillo@libertyhill.txed.net Contact Phone: 512-260-5580

Temple College Campus: Temple Job Title: Technical Director

July 24, 2026
Job Description:  Temple College is seeking a dynamic Technical Director to lead production operations for the Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center (PAC), a premier cultural hub featuring a main stage and the Jackson-Graeter Backstage Theatre. Backed by a rich 50-year legacy of artistic excellence, this role oversees the technical execution for all institutional concerts, theatrical performances, and campus events. The Technical Director serves as a central collaborator within the creative community, partnering with fine arts faculty, supporting students, coordinating with community organizations, and managing production logistics for world-renowned guest artists hosted by the college. link: https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/templejc/jobs/5416410/technical-director?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Priscilla Santana Contact Email: santanap947@templejc.edu Contact Phone: 254-298-8546

Fort Bend Independent School District Campus: Hightower High School Job Title: Head Director of Theatre

July 24, 2026
Job Description:  Job Overview The Teacher Director Theatre, in collaboration with the Assistant Theatre Director, will plan and implement an instructional program for the campus theatre program. The incumbent will coordinate, supervise, and manage all aspects of the campus theatre program. The incumbent will fulfill professional responsibilities related to teaching theatre courses and managing the instructional program. Some travel as well as prolonged or irregular work hours are required. Position Description Essential Duties and Responsibilities Teaching and Learning • Implement, monitor, and maintain progress with group and individual instruction, rehearsals, and performances in coordination with the Assistant Theatre Director • Plan appropriate learning activities including determination of appropriate type and level of materials and implement an instructional program that provides an appropriate learning sequence, considering different learning styles and a range of abilities in coordination with the Assistant Theatre Director • Assess student achievement as related to desired educational goals and outcomes and maintain appropriate assessment documentation for institutional and individual reporting purposes • Manage allotted learning time to maximize student achievement • Manage the behavior of learners in the instructional setting to ensure the environment is conducive to the learning process; assist and participate in management of student behavior in all parts of the school, center, school grounds, or work site both during and outside of school hours; monitor and enforce compliance with the Fort Bend ISD Student/Parent Handbook and Student Code of Conduct • Ensure classroom and/or instructional environment is attractive, healthful, safe, and conducive to learning and that materials are accessible to students and in good condition Program Management • Perform all duties as assigned by the campus administration, and/or Assistant Director of Fine Arts • Conduct practices outside the academic school day to provide adequate preparation for performances and contests in compliance with UIL/Thespian rules and regulations and established guidelines in conjunction with the Assistant Theatre Director • Communicate continually with students on instructional expectations and keep them informed of their progress in meeting those expectations • Ensure continuous communication with parents, both written and oral, to keep them informed of student(s) progress • Comply with established FBISD policies and procedures regarding fundraising, budget management, inventory and materials management, student travel, employee travel, private lessons, and the submission of entry forms and fees by prescribed deadlines • Provide proper student supervision during and after all program activities until all students have left the area • Monitor and enforce student eligibility criteria for all extracurricular activities Professional Responsibilities • Ensure standards of professional conduct are maintained (Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators) • Understand and uphold all rules, regulations, and dates that pertain to the theatre program (UIL, TxETA, Thespian, and FBISD policies all apply) • Participate in all appropriate UIL, Thespian and FBISD sponsored events; encourage student participation in all competitions/events related to the instructional theatre program • Provide proper student supervision during and after all program activities until all students have left the area • Participate in in-service, professional learning activities, and staff meetings as required or assigned, including meetings with the Assistant Director of Fine Arts Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Jared Berry Contact Email: jared.berry@fortbendisd.gov Contact Phone: 2816340140

Lewisville ISD Campus: Creek Valley Middle School Job Title: Middle School Theatre Director

July 22, 2026
Job Description:  Lewisville ISD currently has an opening for a Middle School Theatre Director. Excellent fine arts district with a history of excellence in Theatre education. See details at https://www.applitrack.com/lewisvilleisd/onlineapp/ Applicants should apply to job posting # 11422, and may also email a resume to Michael Valentine, Coordinator of Fine Arts, at valentinem@lisd.net Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Michael Valentine Contact Email: valentinem@lisd.net Contact Phone: 972-350-4784

The Brook Hill School Job Title: Scenic Designer and Technical Director

July 22, 2026
Job Description:  *This position begins in August 2026 and supports four major theatrical productions during the 2026–2027 school year.* The Scenic Designer/Technical Director is responsible for designing, constructing, and overseeing all scenic elements for Brook Hill theatrical productions while supporting the technical needs of the Soules Center for the Arts. This position works collaboratively with directors, faculty, students, and volunteers to create safe, functional, and visually engaging performance environments. The Scenic Designer/Technical Director also provides support for lighting and sound systems as needed and reports to the Director of Brook Hill Arts. Hours per week: Seasonal stipend position. Hours vary based on production schedule and event needs. Work Schedule: Flexible. Evening and weekend hours are required during set construction, technical rehearsals, performances, and strikes. Qualifications • Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience in Technical Theatre, Theatre Production, Scenic Design, or a related field preferred • Experience in scenic design, theatrical carpentry, and set construction • Working knowledge of theatrical lighting, sound, and stagecraft • Ability to safely operate power tools and supervise construction projects • Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with directors, faculty, students, and volunteers • Experience working in educational or community theatre environments is preferred • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work on ladders, lifts, and other theatrical equipment safely Essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: • Collaborate with directors to develop scenic solutions that support the artistic vision while remaining within budget and production timelines. • Design scenic elements for four major theatrical productions each school year in collaboration with director. • Develop construction drawings, build plans, material lists, and project timelines for each production. • Oversee the construction, installation, maintenance, and strike of all scenic elements. • Supervise and mentor student technicians and volunteer crews in safe shop practices and scenic construction techniques. • Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient scene shop, ensuring all tools and equipment are properly maintained and stored. • Coordinate the purchasing of scenic materials and assist in managing production budgets related to scenery. • Potential to assist with the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of lighting and sound systems as needed for theatrical productions and special events. • Ensure compliance with school safety policies and accepted theatrical safety standards in all technical operations. • Assist with technical rehearsals, performances, and production load-ins and strikes. Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Dru Stine Contact Email: dstine@brookhill.org Contact Phone: 9038945000

Liberty Hill ISD Campus: Liberty Hill Middle School Job Title: Theater Teacher

July 15, 2026
Job Description:  Teach 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Theater arts and Tech Theater classes. Please submit an application at https://www.libertyhill.txed.net/careers Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Luis Portillo Contact Email: Lportillo@libertyhill.txed.net Contact Phone: 512-260-5580

Lake Travis ISD Campus: Hudson Bend Middle School Job Title: Head Theatre Director

July 15, 2026
Job Description:  Lake Travis ISD is seeking a Head Theatre Director at Hudson Bend Middle School! This position serves grades 6–8 with approximately 100 students in the program. Courses include Theatre 1–3 and Theatre Advanced Production. The program has a strong record of success, including participation in the UIL One Act Play Festival. You’ll work with outstanding students and benefit from strong parental and administrative support, along with excellent facilities. Hudson Bend Middle School is located in the beautiful Lake Travis area in Austin, TX—just 15 miles west of downtown Austin. Apply Today: https://www.applitrack.com/laketravis/onlineapp/jobpostings/view.asp?internaltransferform.Url=&category=Middle+School+Teacher&subcategory=Theatre+Arts+%2D+Middle+School Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Shannon Gill, Director of Fine Arts Contact Email: gillsh@ltisdschools.org Contact Phone: 512 533-6022

Dickinson ISD Campus: Dickinson JH Job Title: Theatre Director

July 15, 2026
Job Description:  The Junior High Theatre Teacher is responsible for creating a dynamic and engaging theatre program that inspires creativity, collaboration, and confidence in students. The successful candidate will provide standards based instruction aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), directing students in acting, technical theatre, stagecraft, and theatrical productions. This position includes planning and producing campus performances, maintaining theatre facilities and equipment, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, and collaborating with campus and district Fine Arts staff to support program growth and student achievement. Candidates should possess strong instructional, organizational, and communication skills, a passion for theatre education, and a commitment to developing the artistic and personal growth of every student while actively participating in district initiatives, professional learning, and University Interscholastic League (UIL) activities. Contact Name for Job Inquiries: Dr. Paul Trahan Contact Email: jtrahan@dickinsonisd.org Contact Phone: 281-229-6163