The IBMA Foundation has announced a job opening for executive director beginning July 1, 2026. The mission of the IBMA Foundation is to build a brighter future for bluegrass music. The Foundation accomplishes this through fundraising, grantmaking, awarding college scholarships, and actively supporting bluegrass-music-related activities in the areas of education, arts and culture, literary and academic programs, and history preservation.
About IBMA: Although the IBMA Foundation is affiliated with the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), it operates independently as a separate 501(c) (3) organization with its own board of directors and executive director. The IBMA Foundation generates its own revenue from donations and grants from individual donors, companies, and private foundations, as well from an annual raffle and fundraising event at IBMA’s World of Bluegrass week.
About the role – Serving as the principal staff position and responsible for the Foundation’s daily operations, the executive director reports to the board of directors. Responsibilities include overall organization strategy, managing fundraising and external relations, program development, community engagement, grants, scholarship awards, and financial management. This role requires a dynamic leader who can effectively communicate with donors, artists, industry members, and a diverse constituency. The position involves coordinating board and committee functions, organization of various Foundation-related events, and travel to selected industry events and conferences. At all times, the executive director will be responsible for ensuring compliance with legal requirements and ethical standards for nonprofit public charity foundations and the IBMA Foundation’s Code of Conduct.
Qualifications
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in management or a related field.
- Minimum of three years of experience in management within a nonprofit or comparable organizational structure
- Preferred knowledge of the bluegrass music community, including its history, artists, industry professionals, organizations, and fans.
Hours and compensation – The position will initially be part-time, scheduled for a minimum of 20 hours per week, with compensation in the range of $30-35,000 per year, commensurate with the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications, and the opportunity for additional growth in the future to full time. The IBMA Foundation does not currently have a formal office, so the work location is remote. The IBMA Foundation offers a flexible work schedule, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
Why join us? Be part of a passionate and growing community committed to preserving and promoting bluegrass music. The IBMA Foundation offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of a vibrant musical genre.
To apply – To begin the application process, visit: https://bluegrassfoundation.org/apply
The IBMA Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
RETURN to the October 2025 issue of The Cornerstone.
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