ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

About Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance

Founded in 1975 by a group of writers and publishers looking to share resources and ideas, the MWPA is a statewide literary arts organization. It is dedicated to enriching the literary culture of Maine by supporting and promoting Maine writers, publishers, booksellers, and literary professionals; fostering a greater awareness and readership of Maine writers; building networks of writers, readers, and publishers; creating opportunities for writers to improve their craft; and informing members and the public about Maine literary news.

The Position

The Associate Director will focus primarily on two areas: fundraising and program development. The AD will run MWPA’s grants program, managing the grants calendar and application process and pulling in other members of the staff as needed; lead the process of writing, designing, and distributing MWPA’s annual report and appeal letter, and help direct selected MWPA programs and projects. This position begins as a half-time role, and with the right fit could grow in time and responsibilities.

Why Work at MWPA?

Words matter, and you will be part of a unique organization with a forty-four year history of supporting writers, editors, and literary professionals across Maine. We’re friendly and passionately committed to great writing and great books. Our staff is small, and we support each other. If you embrace working with a variety of people, hold high standards for what you put out in the world, and have a strong sense of humor, then you will fit well here.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The Associate Director performs a wide range of duties including but not limited to:

• Take the lead on writing, editing, and collecting materials for MWPA’s grant applications and coordinate contributions from other staff members.
• Help write, edit, and collect materials for MWPA’s annual report and coordinate contributions from other staff members.
• Help write, edit, and collect materials for MWPA’s appeal letter and coordinate contributions from other staff and board members.
• Collaborate with MWPA staff and board members, as well as dues-paying members, volunteers, and community partners.
• Organize and execute all manner of program and project logistics from initial contact with venues, participants, and partners to post-program/project evaluation.
• Serve as an organizational representative in funder meetings.
• Be the public face of MWPA at selected events and program activities, including some nights and weekends.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required
• College diploma or equivalent work experience recommended
• Writing-related graduate school or equivalent work experience a plus
• At least 3-5 years of grant writing experience
• At least 3-5 years of program development experience

Computer Skills

Proficient in Google and Microsoft platforms, and social media tools like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Expertise with the Adobe Creative Suite a plus.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Demonstrated writing & editing abilities
• Demonstrated success in grant writing and writing on behalf of non-profit organizations
• Demonstrated understanding of best practices for program development
• Demonstrated ability to implement project-based programming
• Demonstrated public speaking and event management skills
• Demonstrated graphic design abilities a plus
• Knowledge of Maine’s literary history and landscape a plus

Benefits

Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, flexible work schedule

Additional Job Information

Salary: $20,000-$25,000 annually depending on experience

Job Type: Half-time

Start Date: This Fall

How To Apply

Please send a resume and cover letter material to Gibson Fay-LeBlanc at jobs@mainewriters.org. No phone calls please.

Application Deadline: August 30, 2019

We are an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage people of all traditionally marginalized identities to apply. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.