National arts advocacy nonprofit Americans for the Arts (AFTA) has announced the appointment of Jamey Lundblad as its chief marketing officer. Lundbland will step into this position beginning on Nov. 12. As chief marketing officer, Lundblad will lead the organization’s marketing and communications strategy with goals of strengthening AFTA’s brand, driving growth and championing the arts as essential to communities nationwide.
Lundblad joins AFTA from Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre, where, as managing director, he oversaw the Tony Award-winning theater’s strategy and day-to-day operations. Lundblad’s résumé includes a tenure as deputy commissioner for marketing and development for the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, as well as stints in senior leadership roles at the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture and the Chicago Public Library.
“Jamey brings clear vision and the ability to bring people together around a shared purpose,” said AFTA CEO Erin Harkey in a statement. “Having worked with him in Chicago, I’ve seen firsthand how he leads with creativity and collaboration. He knows how to harness the power of the arts to strengthen communities and create lasting impact. We’re fortunate to have his leadership at this critical time for Americans for the Arts and the nation.”
“Americans for the Arts has long been the nation’s leading voice for arts advocacy, and I’m honored to join this team at such a pivotal time,” added Lundblad. “Artists and arts organizations are essential to healthy communities and thriving economies, but in today’s fragmented media environment, their impact stories often get lost. I’m excited to help AFTA elevate those voices and ensure every community understands the arts as indispensable to civic life.”
Founded in 1996, AFTA regularly lobbies for arts funding and awareness, which has been buoyed by the organization’s ongoing research. During the COVID era, AFTA released a study examining the economic impact of the pandemic on arts across the country, including Broadway.
