Brooklyn Ballet Appoints Jelani Buckner as First Managing Director

Brooklyn Ballet has announced the appointment of Jelani Buckner as its inaugural Managing Director. This strategic move marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it navigates a period of expansion and transformation.

With a $1.2 million budget set to grow significantly in the coming years, Brooklyn Ballet embarks on this new chapter with Buckner stepping into a role vital for steering the company towards its next phase of evolution. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, Buckner will collaborate closely with the founding Artistic Director, Lynn Parkerson, and Associate Director Alison Mixon to provide strategic leadership and oversee operations, charting a visionary course for the Ballet’s future.

For two decades, Brooklyn Ballet has been at the forefront of redefining the landscape of ballet, championing inclusivity and innovation. Under the guidance of founder and Artistic Director Lynn Parkerson, the company has pushed the boundaries of traditional ballet, integrating multicultural dance forms and interdisciplinary influences into its repertoire. Emphasizing accessibility, Brooklyn Ballet touches the lives of over 20,000 individuals annually through public performances and robust educational initiatives.

The Managing Director role at Brooklyn Ballet demands a seasoned arts administrator with a flair for entrepreneurship and inspiring leadership. Buckner’s responsibilities encompass fundraising, strategic planning, financial management, board development, community engagement, and operational oversight. This collaborative partnership among the Managing Director, Artistic Director, and Associate Director promises to fortify the company’s artistic vision while propelling its administrative and community outreach initiatives.

"As Brooklyn Ballet embarks on this exciting new phase, we are thrilled to welcome Jelani Buckner as our Managing Director.,” remarks Parkerson. “His proven track record in the nonprofit sector, coupled with a deep passion for the arts, aligns perfectly with our commitment to pushing boundaries and making dance accessible to all."

"As I step into the role of Managing Director at Brooklyn Ballet, I am deeply honored.” adds Buckner. “Together, we'll champion inclusivity, innovation, and the transformative power of the arts, pushing boundaries to create a vibrant dance legacy that enriches lives and remains accessible to all."

Buckner brings a wealth of nonprofit expertise, and a proven track record, having served as the Managing Director at The Billie Holiday Theatre since 2019. In this role, he wasinstrumental in ensuring operational compliance with fiscal and human resources policies, providing accurate financial reports to the Board Treasurer, and overseeing a medium-sized team of over 25 employees and consultants. Buckner's expertise extends to program development and facilities management, where he has successfully ideated programs, managed program reporting deadlines, and leveraged funding for growth. Notably, his concerted efforts have been recognized with the prestigious National Medal of Arts, awarded to The Billie Holiday Theatre by President Joseph Biden. Prior to this, Buckner served as the Director of Operations & Admin at Afro Latin Jazz Alliance from 2016-2019, achieving a remarkable 120 percent growth in the annual budget in FY18. His extensive experience also includes a role as a Senior Payroll Administrator at BRIC Arts Media House, where he developed systems for payroll processing, ensured compliance with laws and policies, and collaborated with HR and accounting teams. Buckner's multifaceted skill set and proven leadership make him an invaluable asset to the Brooklyn Ballet team.

Brooklyn Ballet looks forward to a vibrant future under Buckner’s leadership as it pursues ambitious growth plans, including the establishment of a new dance studio in East Flatbush and the expansion of its community outreach programs.

 

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