Organization Overview
Christkindlmarkt, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Carmel, Indiana. Its mission is to create and host an authentic, traditional German Christmas festival—the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. Since its debut in 2017 (with a pause in 2020 due to COVID-19), the festival has drawn more than 250,000 visitors annually from mid-November through Christmas Eve. The award-winning Carmel Christkindlmarkt has received local and national accolades including Best Holiday Market in the United States by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice.
A small, dedicated year-round staff—along with seasonal staff and volunteers—supports the Christkindlmarkt’s mission. The organization values teamwork, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit when working with colleagues, volunteers, vendors, and guests.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring the continued growth and success of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt while upholding its mission and vision. Reporting to the Board of Directors and working closely with the City of Carmel leadership, the CEO will oversee all aspects of the organization, including a $3.5 million annual budget, six employees, seasonal staff, volunteers, vendors, and contractors.
This is a full-time, W-2 position based in Carmel, Indiana. The CEO is responsible for:
- Directing all market operations during the open season (mid-November through Christmas Eve)
- Exploring opportunities for annual growth and program expansion during the off-season
- Maintaining strong sponsor, donor, and partner relationships
- Serving as the public face of the market in media and community engagement
- Strengthening connections with German cultural organizations domestically and abroad
An understanding of, or a willingness to learn, German culture, language, and European Christmas market traditions is essential. The CEO should be innovative, culturally attuned, and adept at building both local and international partnerships.
Position Responsibilities
Executive Leadership & Management
- Provide inclusive, transparent, and empowering leadership aligned with the organization’s mission and Board direction
- Lead the strategic planning process, with input from the Board, and oversee its implementation
- Establish and achieve organizational goals and operational plans in collaboration with the Board, staff, and city leaders
- Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring operational excellence and long-term sustainability
- Recruit, retain, and mentor high-performing staff; oversee hiring, development, performance management, and compensation
- Provide on-site leadership during the event season, ensuring a first-class experience for vendors and guests
- Develop and maintain risk management procedures in alignment with City of Carmel policies
Board & Stakeholder Relations
- Maintain regular communication and strong working relationships with the Board of Directors
- Serve as liaison to the Mayor of Carmel, City Council, and other community leaders
- Actively participate in relevant civic, cultural, and business organizations (e.g., Indiana German Heritage Society, Indiana Chamber of Commerce)
- Cultivate relationships with national and international markets, vendors, and suppliers
Fundraising & Sponsorship
- Lead fundraising efforts in collaboration with the Board of Directors
- Partner with the Director of Corporate Sponsorship on sponsor recruitment and retention strategies
- Build relationships with sponsors, donors, and community partners through networking and engagement
Financial Management
- Oversee all financial operations in compliance with laws, policies, and best practices
- Develop and manage the annual budget in partnership with staff and the Board
- Monitor and manage day-to-day financial activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and timely payment/collection of funds
- Work with the organization’s CPA to ensure accurate reporting and compliance
Marketing, Communications & External Relations
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and public representative of the Christkindlmarkt
- Collaborate with the communications team member on marketing, advertising, public relations, and media engagement
- Represent the organization at community events, conferences, and vendor meetings
- Research and introduce new activities, attractions, and culturally authentic programming each year
Work Environment:
This position is hybrid, with a combination of in-office and remote work. During market operations months, the role requires full-time, in-person presence in the office and at the market.
Other Duties:
The CEO may also be assigned additional responsibilities, as needed, to support the effective operation of the organization.
Qualifications
Required:
- 5+ years in a senior leadership role (CEO, Executive Director, or equivalent) in a nonprofit, cultural organization, foundation, government, or related sector
- Strong business and financial acumen
- Experience managing staff, volunteers, and multidisciplinary projects
- Proven ability to work with and lead a nonprofit board
- Excellent written, oral, and public speaking skills; persuasive and engaging communicator
- Fundraising and sponsor relations experience
- Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite
- Fluent in English and proficient in (or committed to learning) German
- Ability to work outdoors in winter conditions and be “on call” during the market season
- Ability to travel annually to Europe for mission-related purposes
Preferred:
- Knowledge of German culture, products, food, and customs
- Experience in domestic and international networking and partnership development
Personal Attributes
- Culturally attuned and community-oriented
- Innovative and strategic thinker
- Collaborative leader with a high level of integrity
- Flexible and adaptable under changing conditions
Compensation Range
The annual salary range for this position is $135,000 – $170,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or potential relocation assistance, which may be discussed separately.
To Apply
All interested applicants are invited to submit a résumé to Staffing@carmelchristkindlmarkt.com. Applications will be reviewed by the Search Committee, and qualified candidates will be contacted for the next steps in the selection process.
