Today we’d like to introduce you to Tim Rogers.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up just outside New York City and fell in love with the performing arts at a young age. I spent much of my childhood and teens performing on stage and in TV commercials, and that early connection to the arts shaped how I see community and storytelling.
My professional path began in Washington, D.C., where I spent 16 years in fundraising, philanthropy, and civic engagement. I later moved into senior leadership roles in both the nonprofit and private sectors, focusing on strategy, partnerships, and organizational growth. Those experiences helped me understand how to support mission-driven organizations and build strong, lasting relationships.
That work eventually led me to Charleston Stage. After serving in key roles at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and a local, private sector health care start up, I stepped into the Managing Director position, where I serve as Chief Executive Officer and oversee operations, marketing, finance, fundraising, and long-term planning. It’s a role that brings together my early love for the arts with the leadership experience I’ve built over the years.
It’s been a meaningful journey, and I’m grateful to help strengthen an organization that plays such an important role in Charleston’s cultural life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Most meaningful career paths aren’t. I’ve navigated moments of uncertainty, tough leadership decisions, and periods when the work felt heavier than expected.
Working in fundraising and community-facing roles taught me early on how to handle pressure and adapt quickly. I’ve led teams through organizational changes with shifting priorities and unexpected challenges — the kinds of situations that force you to think clearly and stay steady even when the path isn’t straightforward.
On a personal level, I’ve also faced health challenges that reshaped my perspective and reminded me to lead with both intention and empathy. Those moments created a deeper awareness of how important balance and clarity can be, especially in roles that demand constant forward momentum.
Every challenge has strengthened my resolve and helped me grow as a leader. I don’t look at the tough moments as setbacks; they’ve been catalysts for better decision-making, stronger relationships, and a clearer sense of purpose.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Charleston Stage, I serve as Managing Director, where my work centers on strengthening the organization’s long-term health and impact. I oversee operations, finance, fundraising, audience development, and strategic planning, working closely with our Artistic Director, board, staff, and community partners. My goal is to ensure that the artistic vision has the resources, structure, and support it needs to thrive.
Over the course of my career, I’ve developed a specialty in helping mission-driven organizations grow through relationship-building, thoughtful strategy, and clear communication. I’m known for bringing people together—whether donors, business leaders, or community partners—and creating a shared sense of purpose. Much of my work focuses on aligning vision with execution and making sure the impact we aim for actually shows up in the community.
What I’m most proud of is the role I get to play in expanding access to the arts. From strengthening educational programs to building sustainable funding models, I love the work of opening doors so more people can experience theatre. I’m also proud of helping organizations move through periods of transition with steadiness and clarity, which has been a consistent theme throughout my career.
What sets me apart is a blend of real-world leadership experience and a lifelong connection to the arts. I approach the work with both an operational mindset and an understanding of the creative process. That combination helps me bridge conversations between artistic teams, board members, donors, and community partners in a way that keeps everyone moving in the same direction.
Above all, I’m driven by the belief that theatre is a powerful force for connection, and I’m grateful that my work allows me to support that every day.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’d just add that supporting the arts is one of the most meaningful investments a community can make. Theatre has a way of bringing people together and creating moments that stay with us long after the curtain comes down. If you love a local arts organization, show up for them — not only as an audience member, but as an advocate.
I also believe it’s important for people to know that you don’t need a traditional theatre background to make an impact in this field. My path has taken a lot of turns, and each chapter has shaped the way I lead today. There’s room in the arts for people with all kinds of skills and experiences.
Finally, I’m grateful to live and work in a community like Charleston, where creativity is valued and supported. The work we do at Charleston Stage is only possible because so many people believe in its mission. I’m honored to be part of that story and excited for what’s ahead.
Pricing:
- https://charlestonstage.com/shows-and-tickets/season-tickets
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.charlestonstage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlestonstage
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CharlestonStage
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/charleston-stage/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CharlestonStageCompany
