Executive Director
Gateway Men’s Chorus — St. Louis, MO
Part-time (≈ 30 hours/week)
Our Story, and Why We Sing
In 1987, a small newspaper ad asked a bold question: “Men interested in forming St. Louis’s first gay chorus?” Twenty-two voices answered that call. Their first concert, One Voice, was more than music—it was a declaration of visibility, hope, and community. From that humble beginning, Gateway Men’s Chorus was born.
Over the years, we have grown far beyond those early rehearsals. We’ve welcomed more than 650 singers, commissioned new works, performed in prominent venues, and stood with our community through times of joy, grief, protest, pride—and everything in between. We sing to heal, to connect, to uplift voices too often pushed aside.
We believe that art can change hearts, open minds, and bring people together. We believe every voice matters. We believe music, when rooted in intention and justice, can help build a kinder and more inclusive world.
Now, we are inviting someone to join us in shaping the next chapter of our story.
Why This Would Be an Opportunity Worth Considering
- You would help lead an organization that combines artistry and social purpose.
- You would work alongside a dedicated Artistic Director, a supportive Board, passionate singers, and committed volunteers.
- You would have space to create and grow: new programs, deeper partnerships, and thoughtful growth.
- Though St. Louis isn’t as flashy as some bigger cities, it has a strong, vibrant arts scene, a lower cost of living, wonderful cultural communities, beautiful parks and riverfronts, and a tight-knit LGBTQIA+ community. Here in St. Louis, you’ll get big city opportunities in a more affordable, livable, and grounded place.
- Many candidates avoid moving to cities off the coast—but we see that as an advantage: the person who chooses St. Louis does so intentionally. We hope that person would be you.
- This would not be a role where you’d be asked to do everything alone—you’d be supported. We aim for partnership, not hierarchy.
What You Would Help Us Achieve (First-Year Goals)
If hired, your first 12 months might include:
- Strengthening funding foundations—expanding our donor base, securing new grants or sponsorships, and increasing recurring support.
- Leading a smooth and inspiring concert season—with strong audience engagement and community visibility.
- Growing our public presence—reaching new audiences, deepening local partnerships, and raising GMC’s profile in St. Louis.
- Beginning a multi-year planning process—helping us shape a 3–5 year sustainability strategy.
- Building internal trust and teamwork—establishing strong relationships with singers, volunteers, and board members.
What We Do & How You Would Support Our Work In This Role:
Our mission is simple… to inspire audiences and celebrate our community’s richness through music and social purpose.
We carry out that mission by:
- Presenting high-quality concerts with heart
- Commissioning works that reflect our lived experiences
- Sharing music in schools, civic spaces, and LGBTQIA+ events
- Creating spaces where all voices—especially those often silenced—are welcomed
As Executive Director, you would help bring this mission to life through the day-to-day and long-term operations of our organization.
You would be expected to:
- Oversee operations, scheduling, communication, and basic administration
- Support staff, contractors, and volunteers
- Collaborate with the Artistic Director to plan concerts, events, and programs
- Lead fundraising: writing grants, stewarding donors, and securing sponsorships
- Shape and implement outreach and marketing strategies
- Build and manage the annual budget in partnership with our Treasurer and Board
- Report to and collaborate with the Board of Directors
- Represent GMC in the community and with media, partners, and sponsors
- Handle ticketing, event logistics, and production coordination
- Uphold our values—compassion, authenticity, excellence, and accessibility—in everything you do
This role would require both vision and follow-through. Some weeks would focus on high-level planning; others would involve hands-on work at concerts or community events. We’re looking for someone who enjoys both.
Who You Would Work With
If hired, you would be part of a collaborative team that includes:
- An Artistic Director who leads musical programming and performance
- A supportive Board of Directors committed to mission and transparency
- Talented and dedicated singers and volunteers
- Donors, partners, and civic allies across the St. Louis region
You would not be expected to do it all alone—we are strongest when we work together.
Required Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in nonprofit work, arts, business, or administration
- 3–5 years of leadership or management experience (staff, projects, or budgets)
- Proven experience in fundraising (grants, donor relations, sponsorship)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to stay organized, set priorities, and meet deadlines
- Proficiency with digital tools (e.g., spreadsheets, financial or donor software)
- A deep respect for welcoming, inclusive communities, and a commitment to treating all people with dignity
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in the arts—especially with choirs or live events
- Event planning, concert production, or program management experience
- Familiarity with systems like QuickBooks, DonorBox, Eventbrite, or Square
- Public speaking or community relationship-building experience
- Lived or professional experience within the LGBTQIA+ community
- A flexible, thoughtful approach to leadership and learning
Pay & Support
- Part-time, around 30 hours per week
- Starting salary: $30,000/year (negotiable, depending on experience and responsibilities)
- While we are currently unable to offer full health insurance, we care deeply about the well-being of our singers, volunteers, and staff. We are open to exploring creative support options to help you stay healthy and grounded in this role.
- We offer paid time off, flexible scheduling, and support for professional development.
How to Apply or Request Additional Information
If you have any questions about this opportunity, or if you would like to know more about who we are and what we do, please contact our Director of Recruitment, Kevin Kilker, via email at kkilker@gmcstl.org.
If you would like to apply for this position, please send a resume, cover letter, and at least two—but no more than three—professional references to Kevin Kilker at kkilker@gmcstl.org.
We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every qualification listed. If you feel drawn to our mission and believe you could thrive in this role, we would love to hear from you.
One Last Word
We are not looking for someone to “serve” us—we are looking for someone to walk alongside us. If you believe in the power of music, in community, and in the quiet strength of lifting others up, we hope you’ll apply. Let’s build something meaningful together. Let’s raise our voices—and together, let’s rise above the walls!
