Director Positions

Director Positions

Executive Director/Curator of Art
Hockaday Museum of Art
Kalispell, Montana, USA

Position: Full Time, Exempt

The Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell, Montana, is seeking an Executive Director / Curator of Arts who is a dynamic, mission-driven, community-oriented, inspiring arts leader. The Hockaday Museum is nationally recognized for its curatorial focus on the art and artists of Montana and Glacier National Park. It is housed in a beautifully restored Carnegie Library building and serves as a cultural hub in the greater Flathead Valley, which has a population of 130,000.

The Executive Director will provide the artistic oversight, strategic leadership and management expertise for the museum. The successful candidate will be an articulate, energetic arts leader, fundraiser and relationship builder who will report to the Board of the museum. In addition, the director will oversee all curating, development, education, community relations, finance, and staff activities.

Bachelors degree and successful experience in non-profit arts organization management required. Advanced degree preferable. The Hockaday Museum of Art, an Equal Opportunity Employer, offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Please visit our website at www.hockaday.com for a complete job description and further information.

Please submit a letter of interest with your resume to: Robert Nystuen, Selection Committee Chair, PO Box 27, Kalispell, MT 59903

Resumes should be received by August 25, 2008

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from July 18 through August 25.

Associate Director
Museum of Contemporary Craft
Portland, Oregon, USA

Full-time / Exempt position
Full health benefits
Starting Salary: $52-60,000
Reports to Executive Director
Deadline: This position will remain open until filled.

Job Description - The Associate Director is a leadership position that reports to the Museum's Executive Director, working in close partnership with the ED and the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors to assure that systems and policies are established and managed, and that support and leadership is provided for successful management of human resources, finance and operations for the organization. The Associate Director facilitates the planning, budgeting and management/supervisory work of the Museum Leadership Team (which includes the Curator, Director of Development, Gallery Director and the Executive Director) and greater staff, provides budget development and fiscal management support and guidance for all departments, and manages and supervises the Operations department.

Job Responsibilities:

With the Executive Director oversees all museum operations with the focus of this position being on internal operations while the Executive Director will focus primarily on external/community-related issues.
Oversees operations and fiscal management including the following direct reports which include all department heads and the Operations team: the Operations Manager and the Accounting Manager.
Supervises direct reports including hiring, establishing workloads, priorities and assignments, mentoring, creating professional development opportunities, setting performance/productivity standards, conducting regular evaluations, and handling disciplinary actions
Develops and manages the Museum's annual planning and budgeting process, with the support of the Accounting Manager, Board Treasurer and Finance Committee
With Operations team oversee museum operations including facility planning and management. Assure highest quality visitor services.
Plan, implement and assure maintenance of integrated Museum information technology and equipment to support the vision of the institution and supports the daily work of all staff.
Assure human resources policies and procedures are developed and consistently implemented by all managers, guiding organization development to assure clarity of roles and responsibilities. This includes maintaining job descriptions, salary and benefits standards, professional development, reviews/evaluation with support form other Operations team members.
Structure, facilitate and maintain professional practices of organization-wide internal communications and team-building.
Assure an up-to-date strategic plan guides and integrates all activities and focuses annual planning and budget development.
Other duties as assigned by Executive Director.

Job Qualifications:

Bachelors Degree
Experience in leadership and management at a either a for-profit business or cultural organization (non-profit experience desired but not required)
Experience with staff management, human resources oversight, development of work plans and organizational evaluation
Project management experience
Experience developing and overseeing budgets
Excellent writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills
Creative thinker
Experience with organizational technology planning and management of that plan
Experience and high level fluency with computer technology (in general) and Microsoft XP and Office Suite (specifically)

Send cover letter, resume and list of three references to: search@museumofcontemporarycraft.org

For information about the Museum and our programs see: www.museumofcontemporarycraft.org

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from July 11 through October 12.

Executive Director
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Amherst, Massachusetts, USA

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is seeking an Executive Director with bold vision to lead it through its next phase of growth as it becomes a highly recognized international art museum. This is an exciting opportunity for an articulate and energetic manager with strategic vision who can develop funding sources and oversee day to day operations of a start up organization. The Executive Director is responsible for financial and personnel management and implementation of a growth-oriented strategic plan. Open to the public in 2002, the Museum currently has a $2.3 million operating budget and 26 fte's.

The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree, experience leading a non-profit organization, be an effective and motivational leader.

The Carle Museum is the first full-scale museum in this country devoted to national and international picture book art, conceived and built with the aim of celebrating the art we know first. Through the exploration of images that are familiar and beloved, it is the Museum’s goal to provide an enriching, dynamic, and supportive context for the development of literacy and to foster in visitors of all ages and backgrounds the confidence to appreciate and enjoy art of every kind. The Museum - which houses three galleries, a hands-on Art Studio, a Reading Library, an Auditorium, a Café, and a Museum Shop – is located in the vibrant Connecticut River Valley of Western Massachusetts.

More information and the full job description can be found at www.picturebookart.org

Email resume, letter of interest, salary requirements, writing sample, and three references with contact information to hr@picturebookart.org

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from July 3 through October 2.

Associate Executive Director
Portland, Oregon, USA

The Associate Director reports to the Executive Director, working in close partnership with the ED and the Executive Committee of the Board to assure the systems and policies are established and managed, supporting successful management of human resources, finance and operations for the organization.

The Associate Director facilitates the planning, budgeting and management/supervisory work of the 5 Leadership Team Members

The Associate Director provides budget development and fiscal management support and guidance.

The AD oversees the Operations Department and manages and supervises the Operations Manager, and Accounting Manager.

The AD assures that the Executive Director, Executive Committee, Development Director, and management staff are provided consistent, professional reporting of the fiscal and operational health of the organization. The Executive Director and the AD are accountable to the Board of Directors for the overall success and implementation of the vision, mission and strategic plans.

The AD is the key decision maker when the Executive Director is unavailable. As such, serves as the primary partner of the Executive Director in all matters.

The AD is responsible to:

Establish and maintain professional connections and information networks to forecast future operational and administrative challenges and opportunities
Oversee operations and fiscal management.
Supervise direct reports including hiring, establishing workloads, priorities and assignments, mentoring, creating professional development opportunities, setting performance/productivity standards, conducting regular evaluations, and handling any and all disciplinary actions
Develop and manage the annual planning and budgeting process, with the support of the Accounting Manager, Board Treasurer and Finance Committee. As necessary, provide planning/budget support and guidance to all staff as needed
Oversee operations including facility planning and management. Assure highest quality visitor services. Assure appropriate insurance policies are maintained and managed.
Plan, implement and assure maintenance of integrated information technology and equipment to support the vision of the institution and supports the daily work of all staff.
Assure human resources policies and procedures are developed and consistently implemented by all managers, guiding organization development to assure clarity of roles and responsibilities. This includes maintaining job descriptions, salary and benefits standards, professional development, reviews/evaluation.
Structure and maintain professional practices of organization-wide internal communications and team-building.
Liaison with the Condominium Association, managing those relationships and ongoing shared responsibilities.
Assure an up-to-date strategic plan guides and integrates all activities and focuses annual planning and budget development.
At the request of the ED and Development Team, presents a positive public image.

Please forward cover letter and resume to:

Denise Blair
Executive Recruiter
Executive Search Partner
dblair@executivesearchpartner.com

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from June 23 through September 24.

President
Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)
Long Beach, California, USA

Organization
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) has a core mission to educate the public about contemporary Latin American fine art by artists who have lived and worked in Latin America since WWII and to present a significant permanent collection, dynamic exhibitions and related cultural and educational programs. MOLAA was founded by Dr. Robert Gumbiner in November 1996 with the generous donation of 150 contemporary Latin American masterpieces and is located in California’s fifth largest city, Long Beach. It is the only museum in the western United States that exclusively features contemporary Latin American art, and its goal is to become the best known museum of its kind.

MOLAA operates on a $4 million budget and uses its resources to provide a context for the art on display by presenting relevant educational, cultural and entertainment opportunities to all audiences from local grade school students to international art scholars. With a staff of 50, MOLAA strives to maintain the highest artistic integrity, cultural authenticity and public accessibility throughout the organization. As a result, MOLAA was recognized by the Smithsonian Institute as one of only 140 Smithsonian Affiliated Museums nationwide.

In 2007, MOLAA hosted more than 50,000 visitors, including 10,000 school children. Over the past two years, MOLAA has increased its membership more than 25% to 3,600 members. Also, as a result of increased international visibility, MOLAA has received important art donations from the Latin American art community, growing the permanent collection to more than 1,000 works representing all 23 Latin American countries.

MOLAA is located in the newly developing East Village Arts District of Long Beach, California. Between 1913 and 1918 the site that the museum now occupies was the home of Balboa Amusement Producing Company, then the world’s most productive and innovative silent film studio. Before there was a Hollywood, Balboa was the king of the silver screen, producing as much as 20,000 feet of negative film a week. The building recently renovated as MOLAA's Entertainment / Education / Special Event venue may have been part of the old Balboa film studio. MOLAA’s exhibition galleries, administrative offices and store are housed in what was once a roller skating rink known as the Hippodrome. Built in the late 1920s after the film studios were gone, the Hippodrome was a haven for skaters for four decades, and then served as a senior health center for fifteen years. The high vaulted ceilings and beautiful wooden floors were perfectly suited for the Hippodrome's final metamorphosis into the Museum of Latin American Art.

MOLAA has structurally evolved for its increased visitorship, growing permanent collection and amplified international visibility through the implementation of a four-phase capital expansion campaign that concluded with the successful opening of new facilities which include:

Sculpture and Event Garden: In 2005, MOLAA opened a 15,000 square foot garden which has allowed for the display of its vital collection of contemporary Latin American sculpture and provides a venue for outdoor family festivals, cultural events and private gatherings.

Museum Building: In 2007, MOLAA completed the multi-million dollar facility expansion and upgrade, doubling its public space to 55,000 square feet including additional gallery space, art workshop areas, a film screening venue, museum store and Vivá café.

Art Conservation Center: MOLAA has been awarded a $1.239 million grant from the California Cultural and Historical Endowment for the construction of a state-of-the-art conservation facility to ensure the preservation of its important permanent collection.

“Beyond the Walls”: In Phase 4, MOLAA seeks to become globally accessible, moving beyond the confines of its structural confines. MOLAA is currently undergoing development of the Virtual Museum Project, which will establish a globally accessible digital database of MOLAA’s collective resources via the Internet. MOLAA is also undertaking extensive research of its market needs to elevate its community service initiatives and increase regional visibility.

POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President will be charged with leading MOLAA into the next phase of its journey, with clarity of artistic focus and impact as a guide. The President will be the organization’s chief spokesperson, representing MOLAA to many constituencies, both internal and external. The scope of responsibility will include providing leadership, artistic vision, and direction in the areas of exhibitions and permanent collection, educational services, finance, development/fundraising, staff management, marketing and public relations, facilities and operations, charitable giving, volunteer development and other program areas.

The President will stimulate and facilitate short and long term strategic planning (qualitative and quantitative) for MOLAA, working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community to meet the goals of the organization. Provide effective fiscal management, asset management, and accountability, including charitable giving; provide oversight of external and community relations, membership participation, fund development, long-range planning, and the overall operational, financial and administrative responsibility for MOLAA. The President will maintain an institutional culture which balances the richness of a diverse community with MOLAA’s artistic initiatives and programs through the efficacy of best business practices, fiscal accountability, and institutional impact.

The President will be a relationship builder who maintains a high professional profile and is able to cultivate financial resources personally while educating, engaging, and energizing the Board of Directors in its role as fundraisers, policymakers, and community ambassadors. The President maintains an atmosphere where collaboration, consensus building, open communication and stakeholder participation encourage creativity, flexibility, stability, and the achievement of the Museum’s overall cultural, social, community, and institutional goals. This will require an experienced leader with superior interpersonal skills, verbal and written presentation abilities, futuristic thinking, team building and overall management expertise. The President must have the capacity to guide the organization through a crucial intersection where best business practices meet the high artistic quality of MOLAA.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Institutional Advancement
Identify stakeholders, develop strategies, and define how key messages will be delivered to various individual and institutional stakeholders in order to increase participation in and visibility for the Museum.

Oversee a comprehensive fundraising, development and advancement plan that supports the Museum’s ongoing programs and the growth of its artistic, educational, and endowment campaign initiatives.
Ensure that all programs and exhibitions continue to be characterized by innovation and quality and that they are fully marketed to raise attendance and earned income.
Lead staff and Board in development activities and maintain strong relationships with the funding community,
Work with the Vice President of Development to create and implement a comprehensive result-oriented fundraising operating plan to achieve the Museum’s financial goals,
Develop marketing and public relations programs with staff support that achieve income goals from membership while enhancing MOLAA’s visibility and reputation,
Ensure the highest levels of customer service, effective audience interaction, and community engagement,
Strategize the most effective donor stewardship and cultivation methods with the Board and staff.

Community & Public Relations
Guide the revitalization of the public image and increased brand awareness of the organization, clearly articulating its mission, vision, programs and impact and act as primary spokesperson for the Museum with foreign diplomats and artists, government agencies, corporations, foundations, arts organizations, cultural centers, and other stakeholders.

Develop partnership agreements with arts and community organizations to advance MOLAA’s outreach activities and collaborative partnerships throughout the region,
In tandem with the Vice President of Exhibitions and Special Projects, communicate the work and artistic mission of the organization to the public through the media and at public speaking engagements, as needed,
Interface with other regional art organizations to promote arts and culture as a major attraction to the area,
Cultivate good relations with regional arts organizations, educators, and public agencies, as well as the media in the United and States and abroad.

Strategic and Operational Planning
Develop new visionary concepts of art exhibits and cultural events that increase attendance, grow membership, and position MOLAA as an organization that attracts those who might not otherwise participate in a museum. Develop the overall strategic plan and is responsible for the management of operations, staff, fund development, community awareness, marketing, collaboration and partnership building, human resources administration, marketing and communications.

Develop, implement and monitor a long-term institutional plan and vision in coordination with the Board and staff,
Create a strategic operating plan and assume joint responsibility with the Board for its implementation, reporting progress towards goals regularly,
Strategize with the curatorial and staff regarding the annual artistic, educational and outreach plans and appropriate budget which fulfills the organization’s artistic vision and simultaneously,
Direct administrative personnel relations with the Human Resources Manager to ensure that a team is in place that is effectively structured and staffed with quality employees, performance standards are clear, and results are achieved,
Develop a strategy to effectively mobilize and utilize volunteers in support of the Museum and its programs,
Ensure that MOLAA’s employer obligations, to its staff, legally and ethically, are fully met.

Governance and Financial Management
Provide support to best utilize the talents and resources of the Board, stimulate involvement, assist in the recruitment of new members, and work closely with the Board and Finance Department to ensure strong fiscal health of the organization.

Initiate and maintain effective communications with the Board Co-Chairmen, Chairman Emeritus, Board of Directors, management team, and administrative staff, and volunteers,
Assist in Board prospect identification, cultivation and recruitment,
Orient, educate and engage Board members to maximize their effectiveness,
Celebrate the successes of individual Board members and the Board as a whole in recognizing their contribution of time and resources as community ambassadors for the Museum,
Establish all fiscal policies and procedures necessary to support financial control and effectiveness of the Museum,
Maintain fiscal responsibility for overall budget, and ensure the most effective use of financial resources.

Traits and Characteristics
The President will have a well-rounded set of competencies that sets him/her apart from others in the field as a results-oriented visionary leader with the ability to set, pursue, and reach goals. Leading candidates will have great communications skills, imagination, entrepreneurial spirit, leadership abilities and a passion for and knowledge of the art world and for furthering the artistic and community culture of MOLAA. This will require an individual with a strong tendency towards futuristic thinking, team building, consensus-oriented management, effective decision making, strategic thinking and tactical pragmatic implementation. This person must be a model of integrity that is energetic, inspiring, accessible, committed, and flexible as a leader and team player in the organization and the community.

The President will be a results oriented relationship builder who maintains a high professional profile and is able to cultivate financial resources in conjunction with the Board of Directors. The President will be a true leader that can inspire the development of a long-term vision with achievable goals and a strategy that embraces many stakeholders. This will require an individual with superior interpersonal skills, verbal and written presentation abilities, team building, and overall management talent. The President must have the capacity to guide the organization to a nexus where best business practices meet the world-class artistic quality of a growing MOLAA collection and the high expectations of its vision. The President should value the social impact of the institution on its community, as well as have the ability to communicate the cultural, educational, and economic impact messages of the Museum throughout the region.

The President should have the ability to understand and embrace MOLAA’s unique mission and special character and be sensitive to and supportive of the needs of its diverse constituencies including members, donors, Board, staff, volunteers, and community leaders. The successful candidate will be an open, communicative and confident professional who brings creativity, vision and energy to the position. This individual should find the opportunity compelling to work with the Board and staff to build a more visible reputation for MOLAA while serving the local needs of the community.

The successful candidate will be a mature, experienced team player who can help distill ideas, clarify issues and have intellectual depth and pragmatic know-how. The individual should be a facilitative coalition builder who can work at multiple levels and with different segments and sectors in establishing mutual trust and agreement of expectations. The President should be able to see issues through the various prisms of each constituency but have the personal strength to balance that with the long-term institutional vision. It is not enough to be a strong conceptual thinker and creative generator of ideas - the leader of MOLAA must be able to move from dialog to decision making and to develop strategies that inspire others towards implementation of goals.

The President should value knowledge and the ability to communicate the intellectual messages and educational impact of the Museum both internally and externally. The ability to plan strategically, set goals and objectives, organize and follow-through in an optimistic manner is important. The President should have an understanding of institutional image building, marketing, external relations, fund development and have the presence and capacity to move initiatives forward in each of these areas. The President should be the model of integrity, fairness and have the highest ethical standards with personal accountability to be responsible for his or her actions. Ingenuity, compassion, dedication, enthusiasm, humor and energy are also key attributes.

Additionally, the candidate should demonstrate the following competencies:

Self Management – Independently pursues objectives in an organized and efficient manner, prioritizes activities, maintains level of activity without direct supervision and minimizes disruptions to complete high quality work on time.
Goal Achievement – Establishes goals that are relevant, realistic and attainable. Identifies and implements required plans and milestones to achieve specific goals. Stays on target to complete goals regardless of obstacles.
Customer Focus – Consistently places a high value on donors. Objectively listens to, understands and represents donor feedback, anticipates donor needs and develops appropriate solutions. Meets all promises and commitments made to donors.
Interpersonal Skills – Initiates and develops relationships in positive ways. Successfully works with a wide range of people at varying levels of the organization. Communicates with others in ways that are clear and considerate. Demonstrates ease in relating to a diverse range of people.
Influencing Others – Effectively impacts others’ actions. Gains commitment from others to achieve desired results. Analyzes others’ opinions and leads them to understand and willingly accept desired alternatives.

QUALIFICATIONS
The President of MOLAA should have at least 8-10 years senior management experience and at minimum a Bachelor degree with advanced degree(s) preferred. A passion for guiding an institution that is becoming the foremost authority and advocate for Latin American art and artists with the most significant collection in the United States. Although it is likely that the successful candidate will have career experience at a senior management level of an arts organization or Latin American cultural entity, it is also possible that the individual could come from another background closely related to MOLAA’s mission.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Compensation is very competitive and commensurate with experience with appropriate benefits, including health and dental insurance, vacation, participation in 403b pension plan, and access to disability and other group insurance options.

Applications and Inquiries
Cover letter and resume to:
Mr. Bruce D. Thibodeau, President
Arts Consulting Group, Inc.
1601 Hi Point Street
Los Angeles, CA 90035-4503
Tel (323) 936-0626
Fax (323) 936-1196
E-mail molaa@artsconsulting.com

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from June 19 through September 20.

Executive Director
The Institute of Texan Cultures
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)
San Antonio, Texas, USA

The University of Texas at San Antonio seeks applications for the position of Executive Director of The Institute of Texan Cultures. The Institute is a university museum which collects, organizes and interprets the history of both past and present cultures of Texas. The Executive Director will have demonstrated success as a leader and manager in a museum and/or cultural institution, including experience in planning, budgeting, financial and human resource management, external affairs, fundraising, and educational programming, preferably in a complex administrative environment. Successful candidate will have produced academic projects and publications involving cultural or historical research both as individual and organizational efforts. Prefer candidate with successful experience in museum project and staff management.

Candidate should have strong understanding and respect for interdisciplinary activities, ethnic and cultural diversity, and the origins, history, and character of pluralism in American life, as well as a record of success in promoting cultural diversity and gender equity in both programming and personnel. Successful candidate will have demonstrated the ability to communicate effectively with diverse internal and external constituencies characteristic of the Institute and the University as well as a successful record in securing resources and private fund development.

This position requires a Master’s Degree; a Ph.D. is preferred. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications. Position will remain open until filled. Employment is contingent upon a successful background investigation. More information can be found at www.utsajobs.com.

The University of Texas at San Antonio is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from June 11 through September 12.

Executive Director
Brownsville Museum of Fine Art
Brownsville, Texas, USA

The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art seeks an experienced professional to serve as director of its new 17,000-square foot facility in the Rio Grande Valley. At the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville is a rapidly growing city, with amazing wildlife and beaches, and easy access to Mexico. Founded in the 1930s, the BMFA is a regional museum with strong educational programs, an active temporary exhibition schedule, and a collection of 20th and 21st-century art emphasizing south Texas and north Mexico. This is an exciting opportunity for an articulate and energetic manager with bold vision who can develop funding sources and oversee operations. The Executive Director is responsible for financial and personnel management, implementation of a growth-oriented strategic plan, and expanding the BMFA’s programs. The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree, experience leading a non-profit organization, be an effective and motivational leader, and enjoy living in a multicultural border community. Bilingual English/Spanish is preferred. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Send resume, letter of interest, salary requirements, writing sample, and three references with contact information by August 1, 2008 (or until position is filled). Mail hard copy to Chair, Director Search Committee, Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, 660 E. Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX 78520, and email or fax a copy to Charles Willette; email: cwillette@wglawfirm.com, fax: (956) 541-1893.

For complete information including minimum requirements and job description, visit our website at: www.brownsvillemfa.org or call (956) 542-0941.

The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to attracting a wide range of diverse candidates.

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from June 4 through September 5.

Executive Director
Blue Sky Gallery
Portland, Oregon, USA

Seeking new executive director for world-renowned photography nonprofit in Portland, Oregon.

Dedicated to showing the best photography we can find, Blue Sky Gallery continues its 33 year run. We own a stunning new 3700 square foot space and now have a significant endowment. Your responsibilities will include fiscal management, grant writing, and other fundraising; the coordination of artistic content, including exhibitions, lectures and publications; and strategic planning with our board. You will be one of two paid staff, and will work closely with a dedicated group of volunteers, including participation in curatorial decisions as a member of Blue Sky’s unique exhibition committee. Experience with nonprofit arts organizations is important; photography background is desirable but not necessary; ability to work collaboratively with others is essential.

Contact: BlueSkyinPortland@gmail.com

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from June 3 through September 4.

Executive Director
Historic Rugby
Rugby, Tennessee, USA

Historic Rugby, a multi-building, rural National Register historic site on East Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau, seeks an Executive Director to operate this multi-faceted, entrepreneurial organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong business management background, preferably within the non-profit world, and excellent computer skills; will be experienced in cultural and natural resource restoration and preservation, public education, and heritage tourism; and will excel in a hands-on position with high variety of activities. He/she would enjoy living and working in a small community in an area of great natural beauty.

The Executive Director is hired by and reports to the Board of Directors, and is responsible for daily operations, providing general coordination and oversight for ongoing programs and facilities and assistance with planning and development of new programs and facilities. The Executive Director leads and assists in broad-based fundraising to assure that Historic Rugby is managed, preserved, and interpreted to professional standards. The Executive Director works to increase Historic Rugby’s audience and provide them with quality museum and historic site experiences, and works to achieve the fullest benefits possible from board members’ support potential, abilities, and connections.

Specific job responsibilities include implementation/oversight/management of:

Daily educational programming and year-round special events and workshops;
Mission-related business activities – museum store, food service, lodging, heirloom gardens;
Preservation, restoration and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and collections;
Marketing and public relations, including preparation of 3-4 newsletters annually;
Financial accounting and reporting;
General office operations, including membership retention and increase, public information fulfillment, computer data and records;
Fundraising activites, including grant research and preparation, annual fund campaign, membership maintenance and expansion, and other board-approved fundraising initiatives;
Easements and restrictive covenants held by Historic Rugby and related activities;
Rugby and Cumberland Plateau heritage tourism initiatives and activities.

Required skills & abilities include:

4-yr degree from accredited college or university and at least five years of job experience at management level;
Strong computer proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, data management, web/internet utilization, accounting, and fundraising software;
Strong oral and written communication skills;
Strong public presentation skills;
Demonstrated fundraising successes
Ability to lead & direct staff.
Ability to lead special groups, on occasion, through large historic site, climb stairs in historic buildings, walk to related sites through wooded terrain.

Organization Information

Historic Rugby was established in 1966 with one house museum. Organization holdings today include a new visitor center and theater, four historic museum buildings, three historic buildings used for visitor lodging, two historically reconstructed buildings used as museum stores and archival holdings, an 80-seat restaurant, small heirloom greenhouse operation, shop/outbuildings, and protected woodland tracts. Several new visitor facilities are in planning and implementation stages. Organizational goals embrace controlled, architecturally compatible community development, which includes selling of design and use restricted lots based on the 1880s town plan. The current operating budget, including capital activities, is $950,000. The current executive director of long standing will assist in a full transition of operations to the new executive director, and will move to an associate position, working primarily in capital activities and fundraising. Go to www.historicrugby.org for more information, including vision and mission statement.

To Apply:
Submit a letter of interest with salary requirements, resume, and business references to Search Committee, Historic Rugby, Inc., P.O. Box 8, Rugby, TN 37733 or email to rugbylegacy@highland.net Email to request a job description. The position is open until filled. Expected start date is Fall, 2008. Historic Rugby is an equal opportunity employer.

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from May 22 through August 23.

Director
Yeshiva University Museum
New York, New York, USA

Yeshiva University, the oldest and most comprehensive educational institution under Jewish auspices in America, seeks a Director of the Yeshiva University Museum. The Museum Director provides the conceptual leadership of the Museum and reports directly to the University Provost. This full-time position encompasses all aspects of museum operations, including, but not limited to:

Providing leadership for establishing a creative vision for future museum activities
Handling administrative responsibilities
Serving as liaison between the University and the Museum
Cultivating major donors and grantors
Developing annual budgets
Overseeing exhibitions, events and programs
Attending dinners and other functions as part of fundraising efforts

The successful candidate will work closely with the Museum Board of Directors and must be sensitive to the mission of the University and its leadership role in the American and worldwide Jewish Community.

The Museum is seeking an individual with a minimum of five years senior management experience in museum or art related, non-profit organizations to implement the strategic plan, manage operations and programming, and assist in a major capital campaign. A degree in museum studies, art history or art education and an awareness of Jewish education is preferred.

Competitive salary with excellent benefits are offered. For immediate consideration, email (only) your cover letter, resume and salary history to:

Search Committee
Yeshiva University Museum Director
c/o Yvonne Ramirez,
Chief Human Resources Officer
E-mail: yramirez@aecom.yu.edu

EOE

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from May 19 through August 20.

President/CEO
Plains Art Museum
Fargo, North Dakota, and Moorhead, Minnesota, USA

Organization
Plains Art Museum, located in the metropolitan community of Fargo, North Dakota, and Moorhead, Minnesota, is the largest art museum in North Dakota and the only one accredited by the American Association of Museums. The past, present, and future of Plains Art Museum are summed up in the mission statement: "Plains Art Museum brings people and art together—we celebrate the finest of human achievement and inspire and engage diverse audiences in the creation, exhibition, collection, and preservation of art." The board of directors and staff are committed to the goal of making art more integral to the lives of all people in this region by inviting active participation in the arts.

Throughout its history the Museum has collected, preserved, exhibited, and interpreted art. Today, its permanent collection contains more than 3,000 works including regional art, traditional American Indian art, contemporary art, and traditional folk art. The importance of the Museum's preservation role is underlined by the state-of-the-art collection care areas in the Museum and by the trained professionals who care for the collection on a daily basis. The Museum has long considered the role of interpretation and education to be essential. Classes, lectures, studios, and tours as well as social events and performances are held in conjunction with the exhibition schedule. Professional art educators staff the Museum's regional art education services which includes the unique "Rolling Plains Art Gallery,” a climate-controlled gallery in a semi-trailer housing original artwork that travels with an artist educator to communities throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. The Museum is currently in the midst of a capital campaign that includes an interactive education gallery and teaching studios to serve more children, families, and adults through an interactive approach to art.

Grassroots involvement has been a key component in the development of Plains Art Museum. More than 40 years ago, a group of art enthusiasts and community leaders founded the Red River Art Center which joined with the Rourke Art Gallery and was incorporated as Plains Art Museum in 1975. At that time, the Museum began to mount exhibitions of regional and national artists including T.L. Solien, James Rosenquist, Fritz Scholder, and Luis Jimenez. Educational services and a touring exhibition program were also initiated during this time. From 1986 to 1992, the Museum participated in a series of self-study programs through the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) of the American Association of Museums. The physical structure was indicated on all reports as a limitation to the Museum’s ability to grow and provide quality programming. Based on these assessments, a strategic plan was approved in 1992 that emphasized facility concerns.

In 1993, after two years of research and facility needs assessments, the Museum acquired the former International Harvester Branch House building for its new home. Located in downtown Fargo, the former warehouse facility provided the necessary space for the Museum to meet its needs for increased collection storage, exhibition, and educational programming space. In October 1997 the Museum opened in its current facility, a brilliantly renovated, turn-of-the-20th Century warehouse at 704 First Avenue North in historic downtown Fargo. In 2002, the Museum acquired 714 First Avenue North, just west of Plains Art Museum, and in 2005 the Museum launched the “Dream Lives On” capital and endowment campaign, which has since been renamed as “There’s a Little Artist in All of Us” With a $5.7 million goal. Campaign components today include The Creativity Center for Lifelong Learning, which includes Fingerprints, a new interactive educational gallery, as well as new collaborations with Fargo Public Schools and others to build teaching studios. Additional campaign elements are commission of an expansive James Rosenquist mural for the Museum atrium, improvements to visitor services, and increasing the endowment fund.

The American Association of Museums granted accreditation to the Museum in 2003 in recognition of the Museum’s commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Of the nation’s nearly 16,000 museums, only about 750 are currently accredited after a rigorous process that examines all aspects of its operations. The Museum also actively seeks partnerships with a host of local and regional organizations and currently collaborates with North Dakota State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College art departments; and Fargo-Moorhead Symphony, Metro Museum Group, Red River Area Attractions, Prairie Public Broadcasting and many other organizations.

Plains Art Museum is a non profit 501 (c) 3 organization governed by a 16-member Board of Directors. There are more than 800 membership households, and the museum serves over 50,000 annually. It has 22 full-time, 10 part-time, and 100 gaming staff. The budget is approximately $1.6 million, of which approximately half comes from its unique gaming activities, known throughout the region as one of the best-run and most profitable operations of its kind.

COMMUNITY
The Fargo-Moorhead area, with a population approaching 200,000, foresees a future bright with expansion, engaging cultural diversity and a quick start into the 21st century. It boasts a considerably vibrant and diverse economy which includes agriculture, manufacturing, medicine, banking, culture, technology and a dynamic education industry anchored by North Dakota State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, and Concordia College. In April 2007, Forbes Magazine ranked Fargo Moorhead fourth on a list of the Best Small Metro Areas for Business and Careers, marking the fifth consecutive year Fargo-Moorhead has made the top five in the category. One hundred seventy-nine cities with populations less than 235,000 were ranked. Factors considered included cost of doing business, cost of living, job and income growth, migration trends, educational attainment and quality of life issues such as low crime rates and variety of cultural opportunities.

North Dakota was among eight states profiled for their significant efforts to attract jobs, money and a talented work force in a publication released by the National Governors Associations entitled “Investing in Innovation.” The article states: North Dakota funds public-private centers of excellence that focus on state strengths such as surface protection, leveraging at least a 2:1 match from the private sector. The R&D experience of North Dakota is proof positive that finding a niche – in this instance surface protection – and succeeding flows from strategic thinking and a solid R&D foundation (July 2007). In the past few years, several other publications have proclaimed Fargo-Moorhead one of the most stress-free metropolitan areas in America.

Fargo-Moorhead is a bustling, active metropolitan area in the midst of rich, fertile farmland. It is one of the 10 best affordable places to live and work, according to an online story posted March 21, 2007 on MSN Real Estate. Based on data provided by Sperling's Best Places, the story notes that Fargo-Moorhead unemployment is the lowest in the country at 2.6 percent, and its central location is turning the city into a leading air-cargo hub. The article states: "Downtown is classic mid-America with a mix of modern buildings and many well-preserved brick structures. Well-kept parks line the waterfront. Fargo is best known as a friendly area with a strong Scandinavian influence and a strong, varied economy including farm-equipment manufacturers and food processors." Downtown Fargo was featured in a list of ten “Downtown Turnarounds” in the April 2007 issue of Urban Land magazine. Since the inception of the renaissance zone in 1999, millions of dollars have been invested in downtown Fargo, rehabilitating storefronts, converting vacant buildings for commercial and residential use, and sprucing up streets, bringing residents, offices and nightlife to downtown (April 2007). The air and water are clean, the economy is good, crime and unemployment rates are some of the lowest in the nation and the people are the friendliest in the world. The Fargo-Moorhead area has "Quality of Life" that is unsurpassed.

POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the President/CEO will be charged with leading Plains Art Museum into the next phase of its journey, with its mission, vision and values as a guide. The President/CEO will be the organization’s chief spokesperson, representing Plains Art Museum to many constituencies, both internal and external. The scope of responsibility will include providing leadership, artistic vision, and direction in the areas of exhibitions and permanent collection, educational services, finance, development/fundraising, staff management, marketing and public relations, facilities and operations, charitable gaming, volunteer development and other program areas.

The President/CEO will provide cohesive and creative direction for collections, exhibitions, and educational programs of the museum consistent with the mission. The President/CEO will stimulate and facilitate short and long term strategic planning (qualitative and quantitative) for Plains Art Museum, working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community to meet the goals of the organization. Provide effective fiscal management, asset management, and accountability, including charitable gaming; provide oversight of external and community relations, membership participation, fund development, long-range planning, and the overall operational, financial and administrative responsibility for Plains Art Museum. The President/CEO will maintain an institutional culture which balances the richness of the Fargo-Moorhead community and Plains Art Museum’s artistic traditions and programs with the efficacy of best business practices, fiscal accountability, and institutional impact.

The President/CEO will lead the development of a long-term vision and strategy for an organization that is highly aspirational and achievable. The President/CEO will be a relationship builder who maintains a high professional profile and is able to cultivate financial resources personally while educating, engaging, and energizing the Board of Directors in its role as fundraisers, policymakers, and community ambassadors. The President/CEO maintains an atmosphere where collaboration, consensus building, open communication and stakeholder participation encourage creativity, flexibility, stability, and the achievement of the Museum’s overall cultural, social, community, and institutional goals. This will require an experienced leader with superior interpersonal skills, verbal and written presentation abilities, futuristic thinking, team building and overall management expertise. The President/CEO must have the capacity to guide the organization through a crucial intersection where best business practices meet the high artistic quality of Plains Art Museum.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Institutional Advancement
Oversee a comprehensive fundraising, development and advancement plan that supports the Museum’s ongoing programs and the completion of its artistic, educational, and endowment campaign initiatives. Identify stakeholders, develop strategies, and define how key messages will be delivered to various individual and institutional stakeholders in order to increase participation in the Museum.

Take a leadership role in the organization’s development programs, including its endowment, planned giving, and annual operating efforts and identify appropriate funding opportunities from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies with the Board of Directors and staff,
Lead staff and Board in development activities and maintain strong relationships with the funding community,
Develop marketing and public relations programs with staff support that achieve income goals from membership while enhancing Plains Art Museum’s visibility and reputation,
Ensure the highest levels of customer service, effective audience interaction, and community engagement,
Embrace its unique revenue sources from gaming, which includes cultivating effective political advocacy throughout the State of North Dakota,
Strategize the most effective donor stewardship and cultivation methods with the Board and staff.

Community & Public Relations
Guide the revitalization of the public image and increased brand awareness of the organization, clearly articulating its mission, vision, programs and impact and act as primary spokesperson for the Museum with government agencies, corporations, foundations, and other stakeholders.

Develop partnership agreements with arts and community organizations to advance Plains Art Museum’s outreach activities and collaborative partnerships throughout the region,
In tandem with the Vice President of Curatorial and the Chairman, communicate the work and artistic mission of the organization to the public through the media and at public speaking engagements, as needed,
Cultivate good relations with regional arts organizations, educators, and public agencies, as well as the media in the United and States and abroad.

Operational and Strategic Planning
Oversee short-term operational and long-range strategic planning and implementation processes, including the effective mentoring and supervision of the organization’s human resources, mobilization of technological resources, and decision making related to appropriate use of fiscal resources.

Develop, implement and monitor a long-term institutional plan and vision in coordination with the Board and staff,
Create a strategic operating plan and assume joint responsibility with the Board for its implementation, reporting progress towards goals regularly,
Consult and strategize with the Vice President of Curatorial and staff regarding the annual artistic, educational and outreach plans and appropriate budget which fulfills the organization’s artistic vision and simultaneously maximizes earned income opportunities,
Develop a strategy to effectively mobilize and utilize volunteers in support of the Museum and its programs,
Direct administrative personnel relations to ensure that the organization is effectively structured and staffed with competent employees,
Ensure that Plains Art Museum’s employer obligations, to its staff, legally and ethically, are fully met.

Governance and Financial Management
Provide support to best utilize the talents and resources of the Board, stimulate involvement, assist in the recruitment of new members, and work closely with the Board and Vice President of Finance to ensure strong fiscal health of the organization.

Initiate and maintain effective communications with the Board Chairman, Board of Directors, management team, and administrative staff, and volunteers,
Assist in Board prospect identification, cultivation and recruitment,
Orient, educate and engage Board members to maximize their effectiveness,
Celebrate the successes of individual Board members and the Board as a whole in recognizing their contribution of time and resources as community ambassadors for the Museum
Maintain fiscal responsibility for overall budget, and ensure the most effective use of financial resources.

Traits and Characteristics
The President/CEO will be a results oriented relationship builder who maintains a high professional profile and is able to cultivate financial resources in conjunction with the Board of Directors. The President/CEO will be a true leader that can inspire the development of a long-term vision with achievable goals and a strategy that embraces many stakeholders. This will require an individual with superior interpersonal skills, verbal and written presentation abilities, and leadership in addition to futuristic thinking, team building and overall management talent. The President/CEO must have the capacity to guide the organization through a crucial intersection where best business practices meet the world-class artistic quality of a growing Plains Art Museum and the high expectations of its audience. The President/CEO should value the social impact of the institution on its community, as well as have the ability to communicate the cultural, educational, and economic impact messages of the Museum throughout the region.

The selected individual will have a well-rounded set of competencies that sets him/her apart from others in the field as a results-oriented leader with the ability to set, pursue, and reach goals. Leading candidates will have great communications skills, imagination, vision, leadership and a passion for and knowledge of the art world and for furthering the artistic and community culture of Plains Art Museum. This will require an individual with a strong tendency towards futuristic thinking, team building, consensus-oriented management, effective decision making, strategic thinking and tactical pragmatic implementation. This person must be a model of integrity that is energetic, inspiring, accessible, committed, and flexible as a leader and team player in the organization and the community.

The President/CEO should have the ability to understand and embrace Plains Art Museum’s unique mission and special character and be sensitive to and supportive of the needs of its diverse constituencies including members, donors, Board, staff, volunteers, and community leaders. The successful candidate will be an open, communicative and confident professional who brings creativity, vision and energy to the position. This person will accomplish goals through motivation and delegation of authority while balancing the need to have a roll-up-your-sleeves management style. This individual should find the opportunity compelling to work with the Board and staff to build a more visible reputation for Plains Art Museum while serving the local needs of the community.

The successful candidate will be a mature, experienced team player for whom the ownership of ideas is less important than the result of the collaborative effort. The President/CEO, therefore, should be able to help distill ideas, clarify issues and have intellectual depth and pragmatic know-how. The individual should be a facilitative coalition builder who can work at multiple levels and with different segments and sectors in establishing mutual trust and agreement of expectations. The President/CEO should be able to see issues through the various prisms of each constituency but have the personal strength to balance that with the long-term institutional vision. It is not enough to be a strong conceptual thinker and creative generator of ideas; the person selected must be able to move from dialog to decision making and to develop strategies that inspire others towards implementation of goals.

The President/CEO should value knowledge and the ability to communicate the intellectual messages and educational impact of the Museum while having an innate ability to be practical. The ability to plan strategically, set goals and objectives, organize and follow-through in an optimistic manner is important. The President/CEO should have an understanding of institutional image building, marketing, external relations, fund development and have the presence and capacity to move initiatives forward in each of these areas. The President/CEO should be the model of integrity, fairness and have the highest ethical standards. Ingenuity, compassion, dedication, enthusiasm, humor and energy are also key attributes.

QUALIFICATIONS
The President/CEO of Plains Art Museum should have at least 8-10 years senior management experience with increasing levels of responsibility and direct stewardship of boards of directors and a keen interest in contemporary, folk, and/or traditional American Indian art or a closely related art form. Although it is highly likely that the successful candidate will have career experience at a senior management level of an arts organization, it is also possible that the individual could come from another background. Bachelor’s degree required and advanced degree preferred.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Compensation is very competitive and commensurate with experience with appropriate benefits, including health and life insurance, medical flex, vacation, participation in 403b pension plan, and access to disability and other group insurance options.

Applications and Inquiries
Cover letter and resume to:
Ms. Lee Kappelman, Vice President
Arts Consulting Group, Inc.
1718 M Street NW, Suite 283
Washington, DC 20036-4504
Tel (202) 478-5306; Fax (202) 742-5965
E-mail plainsart@artsconsulting.com

Plains Art Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from May 6 through August 5.

Executive Director
Meridian Museum of Art
Meridian, Mississippi, USA

The Meridian Museum of Art (meridianmuseum.org) seeks an experienced professional to serve as chief administrator. The MMA is a small regional museum with strong education program, rotating exhibitions, and collection of 20th and 21st century art emphasizing Mississippi and Alabama artists. This is a challenging and exciting opportunity for an articulate and aggressive manager who can build constituencies and develop funding sources while managing operations. Responsible for managing collection, personnel, finances, and facilities; arranging exhibitions and education programs; writing grants, securing other contributions, and building membership. Advanced degree or equivalent in museum administration experience preferred. Salary and benefits negotiable. Start June 1 – July 1, 2008. Job description and duties are available on MMA’s website. Send resume, writing sample, and three current letters of recommendation by May 20, 2008 (or until position is filled). Mail hard copy to Dr. Judith Miller, 3429 18th Ave., Meridian, MS 39305 and e-mail a copy to drjudithmiller@bellsouth.net.

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from April 29 through July 29.

Director/Curator
Centre for the Living Arts
Mobile, Alabama, USA

Salary: Open
Type: Full Time

About Space 301

Space 301, Alabama’s largest nonprofit, contemporary art center seeks an experienced professional to serve as director/exhibition curator. Located in downtown Mobile, Space 301 was opened in 2003 as a non-collecting gallery space dedicated to the practice, study, exhibition, and enjoyment of contemporary visual art with exhibitions featuring works by significant local, regional and national artists. Our educational and public programs for all ages aim to challenge the minds and spark the imaginations of our visitors.

Each year the gallery produces 6 major and 6 minor exhibitions. Including the Director/Curator, Space 301 employs four full-time staff members and has an operating budget of approximately $300,000. The board of directors assists with policy and general direction of the overall organization. This board includes foundation directors, newspaper publisher, Mayor of Mobile, lawyer, College of Arts and Sciences Dean, and business people. A visual arts advisory committee consisting of practicing artists or art professionals with expertise in contemporary art provides guidance and assistance on programming, exhibitions and policies pertinent to the visual arts in the variety of functions of Space 301.

Primary Responsibilities of the Director/Curator (Creative and Program Development)

Provides overall creative direction to the contemporary art center (Space 301) and maintains the integrity of the curatorial process.
Curatorial responsibilities include selecting artists for exhibitions, serving as curator or on curatorial teams for thematic or issue-oriented exhibitions.
Program responsibilities include directing the Space 301 Education Programs along with the Education Curator.
Responsibilities for publications include selecting graphic designers; reviewing and approving graphic design and printing; editing all material and images; writing forewords for catalogues and brochures.
Works with the CLA Operations Manager to ensure adherence all operational policies.
Supports the President’s work by meeting with the President before board meetings to prepare the visual arts staff presentations and review materials prepared for these meetings.
Prepares the Visual Arts annual budget with the Operations Manager for President and Board approval and monitors financial health of the contemporary art center.
Works with appropriate staff to write and edit grant proposals to governmental entities, foundations, corporations, and individuals.
External Relations - Represents Space 301 to the public, and serves as liaison with artists and other cultural, civic and government organizations.
Serves as primary spokesperson to media and other constituencies.
Maintains respectful relationships with artists and arts organizations.
Develops relationships with community leaders, funders and potential collaboration partners.

Salary and Benefits - Salary will be commensurate with experience, and a range of benefits will be provided. For more information about the organization, visit www.space301.com. Submission: Candidates should submit their credentials by July 31, 2008. Submission should include a resume, letter of interest, salary requirements and three references with contact information (8.5 x 11; PDF or word document format preferred and encouraged). No phone calls, please. If submitting by email, please place “Space 301 – Director/Curator” in the subject line.
E-mail (preferred): centreforthelivingarts@cityofmobile.org
Mail: Space 301 Search Committee, 250 Conti Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602

Qualifications:

Master's degree in arts administration, art history, curatorial studies, or comparable experience in the field.
Minimum of five years responsible experience in art facility.
Demonstrated passion for and knowledge of contemporary art.
Demonstrated success in leadership and management.
Creative, open to change and willing to take risks.
Outstanding communications skills, ability to motivate and inspire confidence.

Please reference museum-employment.com when applying for this job.
This job posted by MERC from April 25 through July 31.

The last update to this page was 7-18-08.

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