Help Shape PJCE’s Future Executive Director
Applications Now Open!
Portland Jazz Composers’ Ensemble (PJCE) seeks a dynamic and collaborative Executive
Director to guide the organization into its next chapter. A nationally recognized hub for original jazz composition and performance, PJCE plays a vital role in Portland’s creative ecosystem by commissioning new work, supporting emerging composers, and presenting innovative performances.
Working in close partnership with the Board of Directors and program staff, the Executive
Director will provide strategic leadership in fundraising, operations, and community engagement to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of this unique artist-driven organization.
This opportunity follows the departure of our current Executive Director. The new Executive
Director is expected to begin near the start of FY 2026–27, helping sustain operations while
contributing to the development and implementation of PJCE’s strategic plan.
About PJCE
PJCE’s mission is to create and perform original jazz music that engages and supports our
community’s diverse artists, cultures, and place.
We pursue this mission through:
• A training program for young composers
• A composer-focused record label
• Small group performances
• Our flagship 12-piece ensemble, which commissions and performs original works by its
• members and guest composers from Portland and beyond
• Partnerships with other jazz and creative organizations in Portland
Primary Responsibilities
• The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for the overall
• management of the organization, including:
• Building strong relationships with the Board, staff, artists, students, stakeholders and
• community partners
• Designing and executing fundraising strategies (individual giving, grants, foundations,
• and corporate support)
• Leading communications and marketing efforts, including email campaigns, website
• updates, media relations, and digital outreach
• Advancing and implementing PJCE’s strategic plan
• Supervising administrative and artistic staff, contractors, and volunteers
• Overseeing financial operations, including budgeting and bookkeeping (in collaboration
• with the Board Treasurer)
• Ensuring alignment of all activities with PJCE’s mission, vision, and values
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with the Portland-area arts and culture community
• Experience in a producing or presenting arts organization
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and grant writing
• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and solution-oriented mindset
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with marketing, branding, or audience development
• Financial management experience (budgeting, reporting, analysis)
• Experience with donor databases, bookkeeping tools, or basic design software is a plus
• Passion for PJCE’s mission and contemporary jazz
Compensation & Schedule
• 0.375 FTE (approximately 15 hours/week)
• $32–$37/hour, depending on experience
Additional Details:
• Start date: May–June 2026 (flexible)
• Some evenings and weekends required (performances, events, board meetings)
• Primarily remote, with occasional phone, video, and in-person meetings
• Residence in or near Portland, Oregon required
• Candidate must provide their own workspace and transportation
This role is designed to support candidates who wish to maintain independent artistic or
scholarly work alongside their position at PJCE. There is potential for the role to grow into a
full-time position over time.
Estimated Time Allocation:
• 50% Fundraising
• 30% Leadership
• 10% Board Governance
• 10% Marketing
Commitment to Equity
PJCE strongly encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all staff, artists, and audiences.
Application Process
Please submit a cover letter and résumé to:
laura@auracreative.org
(Include “PJCE” in the subject line)
Application deadline: April 24, 2026
