Executive Assistant to the Director

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts

Classification: GMU Worker

Job Category: Part-Time / Hourly Wage

Job Type: Part-Time

Location: Manassas, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Hourly Rate: $25-$30/hour, commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

The Hylton Performing Arts Center is a premier regional arts venue within George Mason University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, serving as a hub for artistic excellence, education, and community engagement. The Center presents a wide range of performances, supports Arts Partners and Affiliates, and advances initiatives that connect the arts with the broader community.

The Hylton Center operates in partnership with George Mason University, Prince William County, and the City of Manassas. Its Executive Board provides high-level policy guidance, strategic direction, and community advocacy to support the Center’s mission and long-term success.

About the Position:

The Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative, operational, and strategic support to the Executive Director of the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The role serves as a key liaison between the Executive Director, university leadership, community stakeholders, and the Hylton Center Executive Board.

This position manages the Executive Director’s complex schedule, coordinates high-level meetings and events, prepares materials and communications, and ensures effective execution of strategic priorities. The Executive Assistant also leads governance and administrative support for the Executive Board, ensuring efficient coordination of board meetings, documentation, and follow-up actions in alignment with best practices in nonprofit governance and university operations.

Responsibilities:

Executive Director Support & Administrative Operations:

• Manages and maintains the Executive Director’s complex calendar, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and resolving competing demands;
• Coordinates internal and external meetings, events, and speaking engagements, including logistics and material preparation;
• Prepares and edits correspondence, reports, presentations, and briefing materials for executive use;
• Maintains organized administrative systems, including files, records, and shared drives;
• Serves as a primary point of contact for the Executive Director, managing communications with university leadership, donors, artists, and community partners;
• Supports high-profile programs, performances, and institutional initiatives as needed; and
• Oversees general office operations, including the inventory and procurement of administrative supplies, while managing the main external telephone line.

Governance & Executive Board Support:

• Serves as the primary administrative liaison to the Hylton Center Executive Board, which provides strategic guidance, governance, and advocacy for the Center;
• Coordinates Executive Board and committee meetings, including scheduling, logistics, and communications;
• Manages communications with appointing entities regarding board term expirations and the filling of vacancies;
• Prepares, compiles, and distributes board materials such as agendas, reports, and briefing packets in advance of meetings;
• Attends board and committee meetings; records, prepares, and distributes official meeting minutes;
• Maintains governance records, including board rosters, bylaws, committee structures, and documentation;
• Tracks board decisions, action items, and follow-up activities to ensure accountability and progress;
• Supports onboarding and engagement of board members and assists with planning retreats, special meetings, and strategic initiatives; and
• Facilitates professional communication and relationship management between the Executive Director and board members.

Project Coordination & Office Operations:

• Coordinates and manages special projects and strategic initiatives on behalf of the Executive Director;
• Liaises across university departments and external partners to support collaborative initiatives;
• Supports planning and execution of events, including donor engagement, performances, and community programs;
• Assists with preparation of reports, presentations, and materials for institutional stakeholders; and
• Maintains operational processes that improve efficiency, communication, and workflow within the Hylton Center administrative office.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience providing high-level executive support;
• Experience managing calendars, scheduling, and administrative operations;
• Experience preparing meeting materials and drafting minutes; and
• Experience handling multiple priorities and working independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting board of directors or governance bodies; and
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or performing arts environment.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.

Posting Open Date:  September 28, 2026

For Full Consideration, Apply by:  October 9, 2026

Open Until Filled:  Yes