Weston County Museum District Director Job Description

PURPOSE

The Museum Director serves as the chief administrator and public representative of the Museum (and/or Museum District), providing leadership in administration, operations, fundraising, programming, and community engagement. Working under the direction of the Board of Trustees, the Director is responsible for implementing Board-approved goals and policies; overseeing day-to-day operations; supporting museum staff and volunteers; ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and advancing the mission, visibility, and sustainability of the Museum.

This position requires a hands-on leader who is comfortable balancing strategic planning with daily operations in a small-museum environment.

GOVERNANCE AND BOARD RELATIONS

• Conduct all business in accordance with Museum/District Bylaws, policies, and rules and regulations
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors, museum staff, volunteers, and the public
• Communicate effectively and transparently with the Board, providing timely, accurate information to support informed decision-making
• Prepare materials, reports, and documentation for monthly and special Board meetings
• Attend Board meetings, committee meetings, and required county or commissioner meetings
• Work with committee chairpersons to ensure committees function effectively

ADMINISTRATION AND OPERATIONS

• Oversee day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the Museum and/or Museum District
• Manage office operations including correspondence, phone calls, emails, scheduling, record keeping, and filing
• Check mail, submit bills, create vouchers, maintain receipts, and coordinate with the accountant and Board on financial matters
• Maintain organized records, including minutes, contracts, donor records, and compliance documents
• Submit required filings, reports, and paperwork to local and state agencies, including tax and annual filings
• Coordinate custodial care, building maintenance, and facility improvements with appropriate committees and Board approval
• Maintain an organized, safe, and welcoming work and public environment

FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT

• Support the financial health of the organization through budgeting, reporting, and resource development
• Track expenditures, assist with billing and coding, and present financial information to the Board on a regular basis
• Lead grant research, writing, reporting, and compliance
• Oversee fundraising initiatives, donor stewardship, and membership programs
• Maintain accurate donor records and stewardship systems

STAFF AND VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT

• Supervise staff and volunteers, including scheduling, task assignment, and performance support
• Maintain staff timesheets, track leave requests, and communicate personnel matters to the Board
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers working in collections, exhibits, visitor services, data entry, and programs
• Foster a positive, collaborative workplace culture

COLLECTIONS, PROGRAMS, EXHIBITS

• Oversee effective and efficient management of collections, accessions, and inventory (in collaboration with the Curator)
• Evaluate and support the development of exhibits that reflect the Museum’s mission and local/regional history
• Oversee exhibitions and public programming to attract audiences, donors, and sponsors
• Respond to research requests and inquiries related to the Museum’s collections and resources
• Coordinate education and outreach programming, including youth engagement initiatives

MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS, AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

• Serve as the public face and voice of the Museum and/or District
• Coordinate with public relations or marketing committees to develop and implement communications strategies
• Oversee website content, social media accounts, media relations, printed materials, and public announcements
• Record digital content, including or video and educational media
• Manage the Museum calendar and coordinate events, programs, and special activities
• Enhance the visitor experience before, during, and after museum visits

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

• Ensure a welcoming, accessible, and engaging visitor experience
• Answer public inquiries in person, by phone, or electronically
• Build and sustain relationships with community partners, members, donors, sponsors, and stakeholders
• Represent the Museum at community events and public functions

OTHER DUTIES

• Perform general office and operational duties as needed
• Assist with opening and closing the Museum and orienting visitors
• Carry out additional responsibilities as assigned by the Board to meet organizational needs

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree preferred
• Demonstrated interest in local or regional history and museums
• Experience in administration, nonprofit operations, or museum work preferred
• Grant writing and fundraising experience strongly preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, (Word, Excel, Publisher
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
• Comfortable engaging with the public in a small-town or rural environment
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with assistance as needed

EVALUATION, LEAVE, AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST

• Performance evaluations will be conducted by the Board of Directors or designated Board members
• Leave and employee matters are governed by the Museum/District personnel handbook
• Employees may not serve as voting members or officers of affiliated foundations; attendance at foundation meetings is permitted