Director of People, Equity and Culture
Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, Minneapolis, MN, United States
Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Director of People, Equity and Culture. This full‑time, benefits‑eligible position calls for an experienced senior leader who can shape and advance integrated strategies for human resources, organizational culture, employee and labor relations, talent development, and equity initiatives across the organization. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, sound judgment, and a demonstrated ability to advise senior leaders, navigate complex people issues, and foster an inclusive, accountable, and collaborative workplace. Applicants should have exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and relationship‑management skills, as well as the ability to positively contribute to an anti‑racist organization and support CTC’s efforts to dismantle structural racism in theatre.
CTC is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and justice in our organization and our community, and thus we seek a broad spectrum of employees. We strongly encourage and welcome applicants who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color, as well as those who are from other under‑represented communities.
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION Led by Artistic Director Rick Dildine and Managing Director Ryan French, Children's Theatre Company (CTC) is the nation’s leading theatre for multigenerational audiences and is one of the 25 largest producing theatres in the United States. A winner of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, CTC creates extraordinary theatre experiences that educate, challenge and inspire young people. It has set standards of excellence in the quality of its productions, commitment to new work, and innovative education and community partnerships.
DESCRIPTION OF MINNEAPOLIS AND THE TWIN CITIES METRO AREA Minneapolis and the Twin Cities area have a thriving and vibrant arts scene. The Twin Cities metro area is one of the largest theatre markets in the country, with over 150 theatres. Minnesota year in and year outranks near the top nationwide in federal and state arts funding and has a strong history of private arts philanthropy.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT CTC is dedicated to increasing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in our audiences, our programs and in all of our hiring for staff, artists, and recruiting of board members. CTC is committed to a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, and is truly reflective of our community. We are also committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination. CTC prohibits discrimination in employment against any employee or job applicant because of that person’s race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, membership in a local human rights commission or any other legally protected status.
POSITION SUMMARY The Director of People, Equity, and Culture is the senior leader responsible for Children’s Theatre Company’s (CTC) people strategy, Human Resources operations, labor and employee relations, organizational culture, and equity initiatives. Reporting to the Managing Director, this role partners closely with leaders across the organization to ensure CTC’s people practices support the company’s mission, values, strategic priorities, and commitment to serving young audiences and diverse communities. This position helps shape an inclusive, equitable, accountable, and engaging workplace culture while ensuring compliance, organizational effectiveness, and thoughtful support for a creative and collaborative environment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Organizational Strategy and Leadership
Serve as a strategic advisor to the Managing Director, leadership team, and other managers and supervisors on people, culture, and equity matters
Translate CTC’s mission, values, and DEI priorities into actionable people strategies in support of the goals and initiatives outlined in the strategic plan
Lead organization‑wide change efforts, including growth, restructuring, workforce planning, and culture building initiatives
Model inclusive leadership and foster trust, accountability and effective collaboration across the organization
Human Resources Operations and Compliance
Oversee all HR functions, including talent acquisition, onboarding and offboarding, compensation and benefits administration (with support of Finance staff), performance management, employee relations, HR policies and systems, and HR department budgeting
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, including Minnesota‑specific requirements
Manage relationships with labor/personnel legal counsel, benefits providers, and HR vendors
Lead or support labor relations work in a multi‑union and multi‑employee type environment, including administration of collective bargaining agreements and collaboration with union leadership and stewards, as appropriate
Represent or support CTC in labor‑related matters, including bargaining preparation, negotiations, and contract administration, as assigned
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Strategy
Design, lead, and continuously evolve CTC’s DEI strategy in alignment with its artistic and community mission and goals and initiatives outlined in the strategic plan
Oversee ACT One—a company‑wide initiative focusing on increased representation, relationship building, and partnership with ACT One communities throughout the organization, audiences, and community.
Embed equity‑informed principles into hiring, onboarding, development, compensation, and performance management practices
Partner with leadership and staff to address systemic barriers and advance equitable outcomes
Support inclusive practices across staff, volunteers, artists, educators, and community partners
Support learning initiatives related to equity and inclusion
Track and report DEI progress using both qualitative and quantitative measures
Talent Development and Workforce Planning
Develop and implement strategies for attracting, retaining, developing, and supporting a diverse and high‑performing workforce
Lead or support leadership development, coaching, succession planning, training and professional development efforts
Foster a culture of feedback, accountability, and continuous improvement
Deliver training, when appropriate, and maintain CTC‑paid certifications required to support core activities
Employee Experience and Culture
Champion a positive, values‑driven employee experience across the full employee lifecycle
Oversee engagement, wellbeing, and recognition initiatives
Address workplace concerns with empathy, fairness, and consistency
Partner with managers to build strong, inclusive, and accountable teams
Ensure people practices reflect CTC’s values and commitment to children, families, and the broader community
Collaborate with leaders across the organization to align internal culture with external impact
Serve as a visible advocate for equity, inclusion, and belonging both internally and externally
Organizational Leadership and Participation
Serve as the staff lead for CTC’s Board of Directors Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Capital Committee; attend all board meetings and lead board projects as requested
Participate in Senior Staff, all staff, and small group meetings as well as project work groups
Participate in seminars, safety training classes, and other core job related trainings and educational activities and other duties or responsibilities as required or assigned
Collaborate with all staff in the furtherance of CTC’s goal of being an anti‑racist theatre that works towards Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Encourage and empower everyone to speak out against biased or racist workplace practices and policies
Study topics that lead to a deeper understanding of how white supremacy, racial violence, and systemic racism have shaped American society and how that shapes CTC’s workplace and the lives of CTC employees
Positively contribute to the ACT One platform, creating a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, reflective of our community
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Experience
Required
Demonstrated substantial leadership experience in human resources, people leadership, organizational culture, equity, labor relations or related leadership functions
Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, organizational development, public administration, labor relations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and substantial relevant leadership experience
Demonstrated expertise in DEI strategy and implementation
Demonstrated deep knowledge of compliance, employment practices, employee relations, benefits administration, talent strategy, organizational development, and leadership coaching
Demonstrated success advising senior leaders on complex people, culture, and organizational issues
Experience leading sensitive employee relations matters, policy development and change management initiatives
Proven ability to lead through complexity, change, and diverse stakeholder needs
Preferred
Senior leadership or executive‑level HR experience
Experience in union or multi‑employee‑type environments (full‑time, part‑time, seasonal, contract)
Experience working in a not‑for‑profit, arts, education, or mission‑driven organization
Familiarity with creative or theatrical organizations
Advanced degree in human resources or related field and/or SHRM‑SCP, SPHR, or equivalent certification
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Analytical Skills – Ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a problem
Autonomy – Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Budget Management – demonstrated ability to allocate expenses and stay within financial constraints
Collaboration – Ability to work with others and be a positive team member contributing to a positive culture
Communication – Ability to communicate clearly and concisely
Computer skills – demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office Suite, email and calendar programs
Conceptual Thinking – Ability to think in terms of abstract ideas
Consensus Building – Ability to bring about group solidarity to achieve a goal
Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems
Diversity Oriented – Ability to work effectively with people regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or physical abilities
Emotional Intelligence – Ability to perceive, manage, understand, and reason with emotional responses of self and others
Inclusive – Skill and value of providing equal access of opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized
Initiative – Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal
Judgment – The ability to formulate a sound decision using the available information
Persuasive – Ability to influence others to change position or to adopt a specific point of view
Problem Solving – Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work‑related problems
Project Management – Ability to organize and direct a project to completion
Time Management – Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines
Working Under Pressure – Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations
Other Qualities
A commitment to ethical conduct in all respects of the work environment
A commitment to creating a just, equitable and inclusive work environment
A commitment to the protection of confidential information to which this position has access
A commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for all staff members following all facility codes designated by the City of Minneapolis and State of Minnesota
Ability to positively contribute to an anti‑racist/anti‑bias organization and work to dismantle structural racism in theatre
COMPENSATION The starting salary range for this full‑time position is between $100,000 and $110,000 annually. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance; short‑term and long‑term disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; nine paid holidays; and a 403(b)‑retirement savings plan.
TO APPLY Please send a cover letter and resume to careers@childrenstheatre.org. Please include the name of the position(s) to which you are applying in the subject line of the email.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
CTC is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and justice in our organization and our community, and thus we seek a broad spectrum of employees. We strongly encourage and welcome applicants who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color, as well as those who are from other under‑represented communities.
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION Led by Artistic Director Rick Dildine and Managing Director Ryan French, Children's Theatre Company (CTC) is the nation’s leading theatre for multigenerational audiences and is one of the 25 largest producing theatres in the United States. A winner of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, CTC creates extraordinary theatre experiences that educate, challenge and inspire young people. It has set standards of excellence in the quality of its productions, commitment to new work, and innovative education and community partnerships.
DESCRIPTION OF MINNEAPOLIS AND THE TWIN CITIES METRO AREA Minneapolis and the Twin Cities area have a thriving and vibrant arts scene. The Twin Cities metro area is one of the largest theatre markets in the country, with over 150 theatres. Minnesota year in and year outranks near the top nationwide in federal and state arts funding and has a strong history of private arts philanthropy.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT CTC is dedicated to increasing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in our audiences, our programs and in all of our hiring for staff, artists, and recruiting of board members. CTC is committed to a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, and is truly reflective of our community. We are also committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination. CTC prohibits discrimination in employment against any employee or job applicant because of that person’s race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, membership in a local human rights commission or any other legally protected status.
POSITION SUMMARY The Director of People, Equity, and Culture is the senior leader responsible for Children’s Theatre Company’s (CTC) people strategy, Human Resources operations, labor and employee relations, organizational culture, and equity initiatives. Reporting to the Managing Director, this role partners closely with leaders across the organization to ensure CTC’s people practices support the company’s mission, values, strategic priorities, and commitment to serving young audiences and diverse communities. This position helps shape an inclusive, equitable, accountable, and engaging workplace culture while ensuring compliance, organizational effectiveness, and thoughtful support for a creative and collaborative environment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Organizational Strategy and Leadership
Serve as a strategic advisor to the Managing Director, leadership team, and other managers and supervisors on people, culture, and equity matters
Translate CTC’s mission, values, and DEI priorities into actionable people strategies in support of the goals and initiatives outlined in the strategic plan
Lead organization‑wide change efforts, including growth, restructuring, workforce planning, and culture building initiatives
Model inclusive leadership and foster trust, accountability and effective collaboration across the organization
Human Resources Operations and Compliance
Oversee all HR functions, including talent acquisition, onboarding and offboarding, compensation and benefits administration (with support of Finance staff), performance management, employee relations, HR policies and systems, and HR department budgeting
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, including Minnesota‑specific requirements
Manage relationships with labor/personnel legal counsel, benefits providers, and HR vendors
Lead or support labor relations work in a multi‑union and multi‑employee type environment, including administration of collective bargaining agreements and collaboration with union leadership and stewards, as appropriate
Represent or support CTC in labor‑related matters, including bargaining preparation, negotiations, and contract administration, as assigned
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Strategy
Design, lead, and continuously evolve CTC’s DEI strategy in alignment with its artistic and community mission and goals and initiatives outlined in the strategic plan
Oversee ACT One—a company‑wide initiative focusing on increased representation, relationship building, and partnership with ACT One communities throughout the organization, audiences, and community.
Embed equity‑informed principles into hiring, onboarding, development, compensation, and performance management practices
Partner with leadership and staff to address systemic barriers and advance equitable outcomes
Support inclusive practices across staff, volunteers, artists, educators, and community partners
Support learning initiatives related to equity and inclusion
Track and report DEI progress using both qualitative and quantitative measures
Talent Development and Workforce Planning
Develop and implement strategies for attracting, retaining, developing, and supporting a diverse and high‑performing workforce
Lead or support leadership development, coaching, succession planning, training and professional development efforts
Foster a culture of feedback, accountability, and continuous improvement
Deliver training, when appropriate, and maintain CTC‑paid certifications required to support core activities
Employee Experience and Culture
Champion a positive, values‑driven employee experience across the full employee lifecycle
Oversee engagement, wellbeing, and recognition initiatives
Address workplace concerns with empathy, fairness, and consistency
Partner with managers to build strong, inclusive, and accountable teams
Ensure people practices reflect CTC’s values and commitment to children, families, and the broader community
Collaborate with leaders across the organization to align internal culture with external impact
Serve as a visible advocate for equity, inclusion, and belonging both internally and externally
Organizational Leadership and Participation
Serve as the staff lead for CTC’s Board of Directors Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Capital Committee; attend all board meetings and lead board projects as requested
Participate in Senior Staff, all staff, and small group meetings as well as project work groups
Participate in seminars, safety training classes, and other core job related trainings and educational activities and other duties or responsibilities as required or assigned
Collaborate with all staff in the furtherance of CTC’s goal of being an anti‑racist theatre that works towards Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Encourage and empower everyone to speak out against biased or racist workplace practices and policies
Study topics that lead to a deeper understanding of how white supremacy, racial violence, and systemic racism have shaped American society and how that shapes CTC’s workplace and the lives of CTC employees
Positively contribute to the ACT One platform, creating a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, reflective of our community
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Experience
Required
Demonstrated substantial leadership experience in human resources, people leadership, organizational culture, equity, labor relations or related leadership functions
Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, organizational development, public administration, labor relations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and substantial relevant leadership experience
Demonstrated expertise in DEI strategy and implementation
Demonstrated deep knowledge of compliance, employment practices, employee relations, benefits administration, talent strategy, organizational development, and leadership coaching
Demonstrated success advising senior leaders on complex people, culture, and organizational issues
Experience leading sensitive employee relations matters, policy development and change management initiatives
Proven ability to lead through complexity, change, and diverse stakeholder needs
Preferred
Senior leadership or executive‑level HR experience
Experience in union or multi‑employee‑type environments (full‑time, part‑time, seasonal, contract)
Experience working in a not‑for‑profit, arts, education, or mission‑driven organization
Familiarity with creative or theatrical organizations
Advanced degree in human resources or related field and/or SHRM‑SCP, SPHR, or equivalent certification
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Analytical Skills – Ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a problem
Autonomy – Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Budget Management – demonstrated ability to allocate expenses and stay within financial constraints
Collaboration – Ability to work with others and be a positive team member contributing to a positive culture
Communication – Ability to communicate clearly and concisely
Computer skills – demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office Suite, email and calendar programs
Conceptual Thinking – Ability to think in terms of abstract ideas
Consensus Building – Ability to bring about group solidarity to achieve a goal
Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems
Diversity Oriented – Ability to work effectively with people regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or physical abilities
Emotional Intelligence – Ability to perceive, manage, understand, and reason with emotional responses of self and others
Inclusive – Skill and value of providing equal access of opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized
Initiative – Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal
Judgment – The ability to formulate a sound decision using the available information
Persuasive – Ability to influence others to change position or to adopt a specific point of view
Problem Solving – Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work‑related problems
Project Management – Ability to organize and direct a project to completion
Time Management – Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines
Working Under Pressure – Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations
Other Qualities
A commitment to ethical conduct in all respects of the work environment
A commitment to creating a just, equitable and inclusive work environment
A commitment to the protection of confidential information to which this position has access
A commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for all staff members following all facility codes designated by the City of Minneapolis and State of Minnesota
Ability to positively contribute to an anti‑racist/anti‑bias organization and work to dismantle structural racism in theatre
COMPENSATION The starting salary range for this full‑time position is between $100,000 and $110,000 annually. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance; short‑term and long‑term disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; nine paid holidays; and a 403(b)‑retirement savings plan.
TO APPLY Please send a cover letter and resume to careers@childrenstheatre.org. Please include the name of the position(s) to which you are applying in the subject line of the email.
#J-18808-Ljbffr