Job description
Join a leading cultural institution dedicated to education, preservation, and community impact. We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Museum Operations Director to oversee daily operations, facilities management, and visitor experience while guiding exhibits, safety, and long-term strategic initiatives.
In this role, you will partner with curators, educators, development, and governance teams to ensure excellence in program delivery, operational efficiency, and preservation of collections. This position combines leadership, budget stewardship, risk management, and a passion for making heritage accessible to diverse audiences.
Responsibility
- Provide day-to-day operational leadership across facilities, security, visitor services, IT, and retail to ensure a safe, welcoming, and efficient museum experience.
- Oversee budgeting, procurement, and contract management; monitor financial performance and drive cost optimization without compromising quality.
- Collaborate with curators and educators to plan, install, and de-install exhibitions and public programs that engage broad audiences.
- Lead talent management, performance evaluations, workforce development, and succession planning for museum operations staff.
- Drive accessibility, inclusivity, and community outreach initiatives to expand audience reach and impact.
- Ensure compliance with safety, fire, health, accessibility (ADA), and professional standards, including risk assessment and emergency preparedness.
- Cultivate donor relations and support fundraising efforts in collaboration with the development team, including grant stewardship and sponsorship management.
- Develop and execute strategic plans that align with the museum’s mission, growth goals, and digital/visitor engagement strategies.
Qualification
- Bachelors degree in Museum Studies, Arts Administration, History, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in museum operations, administration, or nonprofit settings.
- Proven budgeting, financial management, and procurement experience; familiarity with grants and fundraising processes.
- Strong leadership, communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Knowledge of collections care, exhibit logistics, visitor services, safety standards, and regulatory compliance.
- Experience with digital initiatives, audience development, and modern visitor engagement strategies.
- Collaborative problem-solver with the ability to manage competing priorities and travel or work flexible hours as needed.