Program Manager, Oglala Lakota Artspace (OLA)

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION:

First Peoples Fund is a national non-profit organization founded in 1995. First Peoples Fund honors, supports, and elevates the Collective Spirit of Native artists, culture bearers, and their communities. First Peoples Fund envisions a world of thriving, culturally-centered, and connected Indigenous communities.

The OLA  is the first dedicated art space in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The facility includes artist studio spaces, the Wichapi Olowa Recording Studio, workshop and classroom spaces, a performance space, and offices for partner organizations. This support position is integral to providing a safe and welcoming space for the community to engage in cultural, creative, and educational activities based in Collective Spirit®.

SUMMARY:

The OLA Program Manager plays a central role in the development, implementation, and coordination of the programs of First Peoples Fund at the Oglala Lakota Art Space, as well as developing partnerships with community organizations, schools, and businesses; workshops, cultural events, and training and support programs designed for artists and community partners.  The Program Manager works collaboratively with members of the program team, the Finance Manager, Data tracker, Development, Communication, external trainers, and consultants to plan, implement, and manage all program activities that support artists.  This position works closely with other program managers to ensure community partner outreach, the placement of projects, support of artists and training activities, support the overall program outcomes, and First Peoples Fund theory of change. 

Pay: This is a full-time exempt/salary position. The salary range is $60000 to $75000 annually. Pay may vary depending on your location, skills, and experience.

Location/Travel Requirements: This position is based out of the Oglala Lakota Artspace building in Kyle, SD. Occasional travel will be required for this position, and the candidate must have a valid driver's license to do so.

Pre-screen: Upon offer, employees will be required to complete and pass a background check. 

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Scheduling and coordinating of  Oglala Lakota Artspace’s programming, including but not limited to FPF training, events by partner organizations, workshops conducted by artists and culture bearers, public events, outreach, and Artists in Residence (AiR) program.
• Ensure clear communication with artists, culture bearers, guest trainers, and other staff members or advisors; arrange for preparation and travel times; identify and introduce appropriate community partners and collaborators, etc.
• Foster relationships with individual artists/groups and respond to queries. Prepare materials and documentation for trainer selection processes.
• Foster relationships and communications with additional artists, culture bearers, program staff, community partners, and audiences in tandem with the Program Manager while maintaining safety standards.
• Support the marketing and communications consultant with the development and implementation of community outreach and marketing strategies as appropriate.
• Coordinate photo and video documentation and archiving.
• Manage budgets and grant deliverables, provide input on grant development in support of programming, and participate in strategic planning
• Enter all workshop/class registration information into Salesforce as required
• Must adhere to all policies and procedures regarding the safety and security of the facility and community members.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or comparable combination of education and experience, with five years or more in the field of Native arts and culture.     

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Experience with coordinating events and/or training. Must also be able to work independently, take initiative, and be self-motivated;
• Excellent planning and project management skills. Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and use good judgment in prioritizing tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Strong verbal and written communication. Attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently as well as to take direction and provide support to a team. Ability to learn quickly and adapt.
• Demonstrated faculty with computer technology and social media
• Commitment and passion for community-based arts practice, especially in the area of Native American arts and/or entrepreneurial skills.
• A background in one or more artistic disciplines is preferred.
• An understanding and awareness of the Native arts and culture field is preferred, as well as a broad knowledge of tribal communities and cultures across North America; additional preference given with specific knowledge and awareness of the community and arts community on the Pine Ridge reservation. 
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as required for special programs and events.

• Ability to travel throughout the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and Western South Dakota as needed.
• Prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move materials up to 15 pounds (e.g., presentation materials, event supplies).

Additional requirements: 

• Upon offer, candidates will be asked to complete a background check. First Peoples Fund complies with all applicable laws and conducts screenings in a fair and confidential manner.
• Needs to be First Aid/CPR/AED certified; if not currently certified, the organization will provide training
• Valid South Dakota driver’s license required.

BENEFITS

First Peoples Fund offers the following benefits:

Health, Dental, and Vision are provided to full-time employees effective the 1st of the month after hire. These benefits are provided at no cost to the employee. Family coverage is available for cost.

Sick Leave: 48 hours - available on the date of hire and can be used as earned

11 Paid Holidays with 1 Personal Culturally Significant Day

After 180 days Introductory Period

Annual Leave: 70 hours for the first year of employment

401(k) with company match

First Peoples Fund does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

First Peoples Fund participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. First Peoples Fund will only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.

First Peoples Fund is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, status as a covered veteran, or other military status.