Executive Director - Kennebunkport, ME

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Position Title: Executive Director
Job Category: Administration
Employer Name: Seashore Trolley Museum
Salary Range: commensurate with experience
Street Address: 195 Log Cabin Road
City, State, Country: Kennebunkport, ME
Postal Code: 04046 [Map It!]
Contact Name: Jim Schantz
Contact E-Mail Address: jobs@neerhs.org
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Fax Number:
Contact Website: Welcome to the Seashore Trolley Museum - Kennebunkport, Maine
Deadline to Apply: 2/29/2012

Position Description/Responsiblities:
The Organization

The New England Electric Railway Historical Society’s Seashore Trolley Museum located in Kennebunkport, Maine pioneered the field of volunteer-sponsored rail preservation worldwide when it was founded in 1939. In the intervening 73 years it has built the leading national collection of transit vehicles and related artifacts and library material. It has also developed comprehensive restoration capabilities and since the early 1950s has operated historic vehicles for the visiting public. All of this development has been largely undertaken and financed by the organization’s member-volunteers. The museum attracts many thousands of visitors to York County resulting in a significant positive economic impact on the area. The museum is committed to teaching future generations of Americans about the critical role electric transit played in developing America’s cities from the late 19th century through the 20th century. The Society also operates a branch museum and streetcar operation in Lowell, MA in close cooperation with the Lowell National Historical Park.

Now as the organization approaches its 75th anniversary it is charting a course of enhanced public service and education. The twin trends of urban renaissance and the desire for pollution-free transit has led to a rebirth in electric transit technology nationwide. The museum is playing an active role in spreading the word of this—the modern incarnation of its core technology—and in setting standards for modern implementations. The technology that helped build cities is now being called on to rebuild them and enhance the urban environment and the museum is uniquely placed to bridge the past to the future. As well given the decrease in the number of students pursuing careers in science and technology, the museum is joining with educational institutions throughout the state of Maine to encourage broader participation in these fields.

To reach its potential in these new fields, to develop partnerships, to enhance protection and interpretation of its collection, and to serve the public better, the museum will be engaging a professional executive director for the first time.

The Position

• The position of Executive Director is the focal point for driving the Seashore Trolley Museum to its optimal level of financial stability and interpretational excellence by having overall responsibility for development, marketing, public programs, and external relations.
• The Executive Director has the overall responsibility for implementing fundraising programs and works with the appropriate committees, board members, and volunteers in establishing and completing fundraising initiatives. Fundraising plans are set annually as part of the budgeting process and approved by the board.
• The Executive Director is the initial contact for media and public relations for the Museum and shall develop and implement innovative ways of marketing the Museum to the public and increasing visitor attendance and revenues from public operations. This shall include activities which will improve and expand relations with external communities both locally and regionally.
• The Executive Director shall, along with officers and trustees, represent the Museum and the Society in the general museum community and in the public sector, and shall maintain communications with appropriate organizations, governmental bodies, and associations to promote the Society’s interests.
• The Executive Director shall have the overall responsibility for exhibits and displays, including the development of exhibitions, interpretive displays, special events and educational programs.
• The Executive Director shall develop, maintain, and coordinate a strong and viable volunteer staff drawn from Society members to help carry out the functions outlined herein. Volunteer support has been essential to development of all aspects of the Society and volunteers dedicated to helping the Executive Director will be essential to successful completion of the Executive Director’s responsibilities.
• The Executive Director shall participate in committees appointed by the Board of Trustees in developing and establishing plans, priorities, policies and procedures as appropriate to carry out the position’s responsibilities. Such plans shall include, but not be limited to, budget plans, fundraising plans, capital program plans, development plans, and personnel plans.
• The Executive Director shall submit monthly written activity reports to the Board of Trustees.
• The Executive Director is responsible for carrying out duties and policies as directed by the Board but shall not otherwise become involved in Corporate affairs or issues, unless specifically requested by the Board.
• Over time this position will likely expand to include other areas of museum operations as directed by the Board of Trustees.
• In accordance with the Society’s nonprofit status, the Executive Director shall not in his/her official capacity participate in political campaigns or other activities that could compromise that nonprofit status.

Desired Qualifications:
Qualifications:

• Ability to inspire, lead and manage volunteers and staff
• Strong understanding and achievement in museum and/or nonprofit management
• Excellent communication, public speaking, writing, and computer skills
• Proven ability in fundraising, grant writing, and planned giving
• Solid business and financial management experience
• Ability to work closely and effectively with the Board of Trustees
• Expertise in crafting partnerships with external organizations
• Ability to develop and implement long-range plans
• Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience in the following or closely related fields: Museum Studies, History, Finance, Business Administration, Education, or Public Administration
• At least three years’ experience directly related to duties specified under Responsibilities above

Application

The New England Electric Railway Historical Society is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of candidates. Competitive salary and benefits package is offered, commensurate with experience.

To apply please send a confidential cover letter and resume to jobs@neerhs.org.

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