Nick Hutchinson

About Nick Hutchinson

Strategic Nonprofit Leader | Program Innovator | Fundraising Expert | Champion of Youth & Community EmpowermentWith over 15 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations, I specialize in building innovative programs, securing vital funding, and forging partnerships that create lasting impact for youth, families, and communities.Currently serving as a leader at Childsplay, I help bring the transformative power of the arts to life—ensuring high-quality, inclusive programming that nurtures creativity, accessibility, and joy. My work blends strategic planning with hands-on leadership to strengthen organizational capacity and deliver measurable results.Key Achievements:Increased product-based fundraising revenue by 25%, generating nearly $1M to support youth programming.Secured $403K+ in state grant funding, enabling open-access outdoor experiences for underserved South Phoenix youth.Delivered in production savings during the 2024–2025 season, enabling strategic reinvestment in staff retention and year-round programming at Childsplay.Led major capital improvements, boosting operational efficiency and enhancing service delivery across program sites.Reimagined volunteer engagement systems, improving retention and reducing burnout through streamlined project management.My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, innovation, servant leadership, and empowering others. Whether developing strategic fundraising campaigns, scaling programs, or leading diverse teams, I focus on outcomes that uplift communities and transform lives.If you\'re passionate about arts access, youth development, or social impact, I’d love to connect. Let’s explore how we can work together to build stronger, more vibrant communities.

Experience

1. Director of Production

   Childsplay, Inc

   Oct 2023 — Present · Tempe, AZ, US

   Key Responsibilities and Achievements:Leadership & Team Management- Lead a diverse and talented production team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment to ensure excellence in all theatrical productions- Train, develop, and mentor stage managers, equipping them with skills to excel in touring and residency productions.Strategic Planning & Execution- Formulate comprehensive season production plans, schedules, and timelines, aligning resources to support creative vision and operational efficiency- Spearhead the management of local and national touring show operations, ensuring seamless coordination and execution.Budget Oversight- Maximize and monitor department budgets across all productions, delivering cost-effective solutions while maintaining high artistic standards- Manage procurement of operating supplies and oversee capital projects to support production needs.Contract Negotiation & Labor Management- Oversee hiring and management of over-hire labor, including run-crew needs and IATSE union contract labor- Execute and negotiate union (AEA, USA, SDC) and non-union contracts, ensuring compliance and fostering positive labor relations.Safety and Communication- Oversee the production department\'s safety and health program, promoting a safe working environment for all team members- Maintain and enhance internal communications, serving as a key liaison between production and other departments to ensure alignment and efficiency.Highlights- Successfully managed and executed large-scale productions with national touring components, maintaining artistic integrity and logistical precision- Built a culture of innovation and safety within the production team, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence- Played a critical role in aligning production strategies with the organization\'s artistic vision and long-term goals.

Education

• Central Washington University

  MA

  2008 — 2013

• Utah State University

  BFA

  2001 — 2006

Skills

• Fundraising
• Volunteer Management
• Public Speaking
• Event Planning
• Nonprofits
• Theatre
• Leadership
• Event Management
• Community Outreach
• Marketing
• Management
• Teaching
• Leadership Development
• Program Management
• Budgets
• Non-Profit Administration
• Volunteer Recruiting
• Volunteer Training
• Research
• Program Development
• Film
• Grant Writing
• Public Relations
• Youth Development
• Recruiting
• Annual Giving
• Stage
• Musical Theatre
• Drama
• Theatre Production
• Budgeting
• Nonprofit Management
• Nonprofit Organizations