Executive Director - FACETS Film Forum

Organization Overview: FACETS Film Forum

Established in 1975, FACETS began operating out of a North Side Chicago church as one of Chicago’s first art house cinemas. Over time, FACETS grew into its permanent home in Lincoln Park. Since then, the FACETS team has been known for presenting groundbreaking cinema that broadened perspectives and sparked vital conversations about the world. FACETS then also expanded its mission to include a nationally recognized film rental program featuring tens of thousands of essential titles, as well as robust education initiatives, including youth programs, summer camps, and the Oscar‑qualifying Chicago International Children’s Film Festival.

FACETS recently celebrated 50 years of impact in Chicago’s film community and officially changed its name to FACETS Film Forum. FACETS offers a diverse range of cinematic programming anchored by monthly series like Chicago on Screen, which features expert panels, and specialized tracks such as Anime Club and Cold Sweat horror screenings. These retrospective events are complemented by "Must‑Watch Indies" and various local film festivals.

Educational initiatives further extend this mission, including Summer Film Camps for ages 8‑17 and the Family Day Series, which provides interactive cinema experiences and "My First Movies" screenings for children as young as two.

Beyond its screenings, FACETS serves as a vital resource for film preservation and community advocacy. It maintains a library of 50,000 rare DVD and VHS titles available for rental across North America and manages the Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals (CAFF), supporting over 40 local festivals through the ChicagoScreens.org platform. Additionally, the organization supports the local film ecosystem by offering below‑market venue rentals for non‑profits and independent filmmakers, alongside a concession and bar operation.

FACETS Fast Facts

• $950,000 Annual Operating Budget.
• 6 full‑time, 12 part‑time staff.
• 100 screening events per year.
• 140 venue rental events per year.
• 3 office rental partners.
• 600 FACETS members.
• 16,000 people served in 2025.
• FACETS facility includes 14,000 sq ft, 3 floors, one 126‑seat cinema, 3 non‑traditional screening spaces, lobby, lounge, flex studio, open air workspaces and closed offices spaces.

Role Summary

FACETS is seeking a visionary and dynamic Executive Director to provide the overall leadership, strategic direction, and financial stewardship required to solidify the organization’s role as the premier hub for Chicago’s film community. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the incoming leader will be responsible for balancing organizational governance with high‑level fundraising, revenue development, and community partnerships. This is a rare opportunity for a connected leader to build upon a legacy of significant capital and strong public support, ensuring the institution remains a vibrant force within the city’s cultural ecosystem.

The Executive Director will lead the implementation of a new strategic plan centered on three core pillars: Growing the Film Hub, Expanding Artistic Leadership, and Renovating the "Temple." This involves a comprehensive relaunch of the membership program, the development of innovative educational offerings, and the evaluation of legacy programs like the world‑renowned film rental collection.

The Executive Director will oversee strategic upgrades to the facility to ensure accessibility, sustainability, and an enhanced experience for audiences. Central to this physical and programmatic growth is the need for sustainable funding; the ideal candidate will possess deep philanthropic expertise to cultivate diverse revenue streams and build the long‑term organizational resilience necessary to serve film lovers for decades to come.

The incoming leader will be supported by a highly collaborative staff of dedicated film lovers and nonprofit experts who are adept at building responsive programming for arthouse cinema. In addition, the Board of Directors offers a wealth of historical knowledge and professional expertise in fundraising, communications, and human resources.

The ideal candidate will be outcome‑oriented and bring a deep commitment to FACETS purpose. They will demonstrate genuine belief in the mission and create long‑term value for residents and the city.

Arts & Cultural Visionary

The leader must possess a deep appreciation for the arts and for film culture and possess the ability to help unify FACETS’ curatorial voice. They will translate an organizational passion for independent and retrospective cinema into a clear strategic vision, ensuring FACETS remains a premier cultural hub.

A primary responsibility will be driving financial sustainability through major gifts, institutional funding, and revenue diversification. The next Executive Director will bring to the role a proven track record of cultivating donor relationships and building organizational resilience. They will act as a compelling advocate for FACETS, leveraging its legacy and capital to secure the resources needed for long‑term growth and facility upgrades.

This role requires a leader who can effectively manage relationships between a long‑standing Board and a dedicated, expert staff. They will function as a facilitator who values historical institutional knowledge while empowering teams to innovate. By fostering a culture of equity and inclusion, they ensure a supportive internal environment and strong external partnerships within the Chicago arts ecosystem.

Operational Strategist

The Executive Director must be a "hands‑on" leader capable of leveling up day‑to‑day operations and overseeing complex facility management and renovations. They will possess the financial acumen to manage budgets and the strategic mindset to modernize legacy offerings. This leader must be equally comfortable setting a 10‑year plan as they are managing the practicalities of a public‑facing, mission‑driven venue.

Location, Compensation and Benefits

The ED will be based in Chicago. The role requires regular in‑person engagement at FACETS, which is located at 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue.

Compensation for this role is commensurate with experience, with an anticipated salary range of $95,000–$110,000, along with a full benefits package.

Interest in the Role?

To express your interest and explore this opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter via the Maneva website.

All inquiries and discussions will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. This position is available immediately, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the role is filled.

We look forward to connecting with you!

About Maneva Group

Maneva Group is a leading woman and minority‑owned executive search firm dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with organizations committed to making a meaningful impact. Through a consultative and client‑focused approach, Maneva Group partners with mission‑driven organizations to build transformative leadership teams.

Our name, Maneva, comes from the combination of two Sanskrit words: Mānav meaning mankind & Sevā meaning service. We are driven by the ideal of our name - service to humanity.

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