Executive Director
About the Position
The Executive Director provides leadership and administration for the operations and development of the Scott County Historical Society (SCHS). The Executive Director has overall strategic and operational responsibility for SCHS staff, programs, collections and exhibits, and execution of the SCHS mission. The Director reports directly to the SCHS Board of Directors (Board).
The ideal candidate for this position is a professional with a love for history, especially local history, a proven ability to build partnerships within the Scott County community, and an ability to care for a local history collection. We are also looking for someone with a strong understanding of the importance of the team for a small, close-knit organization and a proven ability to cultivate a strong, high-functioning team.
Core duties for the role include the following:
Work closely with the board to set SCHS goals and objectives and develop a clear vision
Recruit, train, and supervise professional staff
Represent SCHS to the public and other organizations
Develop relationships with community organizations, local government, and individuals
Lead fundraising and development efforts, including grants, individual giving and foundational giving
Managing financial operations of the organization
Success in the role requires the following:
Solid, hands-on budget management skills, including budget preparation, analysis and reporting
Knowledge of and experience with fundraising strategies and donor stewardship
Strong organizational abilities including strategic planning, and task facilitation
Experience to direct and evaluate organization operations, staffing, workflow and communication
Strong motivational leadership skills and excellent communication skills
Sense of humor, integrity and an impeccable work ethic
About the Organization
Scott County Historical Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit museum, historic house, and research library with a mission to search, save, and share Scott County history. Located in downtown Shakopee since its founding in 1969, SCHS serves the entire Scott County community by preserving information and making it available through professional collection practices, engaging exhibits and educational outreach programs for people of all ages.
Internally, our team of three, with you as its leader, works every day to create a supportive, caring, and fun working environment that provides as many opportunities for personal and professional growth as possible within the means of our small organization. Alongside our mission to preserve and share Scott County history, we are committed to creating opportunities for emerging museum professionals.
Compensation and Schedule
This position is permanent and full time with a salary of $50,000 per year. Core hours are Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend hours as required. Day to day schedule has a high degree of flexibility, but hours are primarily on-site in Shakopee, Minnesota. The position is eligible for a full range of benefits, including health and dental insurance and paid vacation and sick leave.
Essential Duties
Board Governance
Work with Board of Directors to further the SCHS mission
Lead SCHS in a manner that supports and guides its mission, as defined by the Board
Communicate effectively with the Board and provide timely and accurate information that supports their proper functioning and informed decisions
Financial Performance and Viability
Ensure the fiscal integrity of SCHS, including creation of annual budget and monthly financial statements
Manage finances within the approved annual budget, ensuring maximum resource utilization and maintenance of SCHS in a positive financial position
Coordinate with SCHS accountant to assure completion of annual tax return and bimonthly payroll
Create and meet fundraising goals for the organization, including securing operating grant from Scott County, grant-making work, and cultivating donors, members and corporate/foundation giving
Mission and Strategy
Oversee implementation of SCHS programs that carry out the organization’s mission
Develop a strategic plan to ensure SCHS can successfully further its mission
Enhance SCHS’s image by being active and visible in the community and working with other civic leaders
Establish and utilize relationships with various organizations in the county and state
Operations
General
Effective administration of SCHS operations
Review and approve contracts for service
Lead the development of policy recommendations, procedures and manuals for SCHS
Personnel
Establish employment policies, job descriptions and procedures for all positions
Responsible for the hiring and retention of competent, qualified staff
Provide leadership, direction, and professional opportunities for staff
Monitor individual development programs and evaluate performance on an annual basis
Schedule regular staff meetings to stay engaged and aware of successes and challenges
Communications
Serve as primary spokesperson to SCHS constituents, media and general public
Lead SCHS public relations and marketing efforts, including website, and social media and other digital communication assets
Collections and Archives
Oversee the development and preservation of SCHS collections to further the SCHS mission
Ensure research requests are addressed accurately and appropriately and the public has reasonable access to the SCHS collection
Public Programs and Exhibits
Lead development of a calendar of public programs and special events
Lead development and installation of exhibits at SCHS and sites around Scott County
Maintain a rotational exhibition plan
Work with partners to host exhibits and programs
Resource Development
Lead the continued improvement of the volunteer program
Manage and expand the SCHS membership program, involving the Board as needed
Other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Public History, Museum Studies or an equivalent
Two years demonstrated experience in nonprofit management
Some experience in a broad range of financial, fundraising, administration, and organization operations
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Public History, Museum Studies or an equivalent
2+ years of demonstrated experience in museum management
Experience in financial, fundraising and/or administration in a museum setting
Physical Capabilities Required
Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs
Ability to travel and provide reliable transportation
To Apply
Submit cover letter, resume, and three references to info@scottcountyhistory.org no later than August 31, 2022. For questions about the position or application process, email to the above or call (952) 445-0378.