Job Summary
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead our organization with passion, strategic insight, and a commitment to excellence. In this pivotal role, you will oversee all aspects of organizational management, including program development, staff supervision, relationship management, and compliance. Your leadership will drive the mission forward by fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation, accountability, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in social services, particularly working with individuals with developmental disabilities and underserved communities, along with strong administrative and leadership skills. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact while guiding a dedicated team toward achieving organizational goals.
Essential Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Lead the implementation of the Museum’s strategic vision and long-term growth.
- Develop innovative initiatives that expand the Museum's educational community impact.
Financial Leadership
- Develop and manage the Museum’s annual operating and capital budgets.
- Ensure responsible fiscal management and organizational sustainability.
- Identify and develop new revenue-generating opportunities.
Fundraising & Development
- Lead all fundraising efforts including major gifts, grants, sponsorships, memberships, planned giving, and capital campaigns.
- Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners.
- Support the Board of Trustees in fundraising initiatives and donor engagement.
Community Relations
- Serve as the public face of the Museum.
- Build strong relationships with business leaders, government agencies, educational institutions, tourism organizations, nonprofit partners, and community stakeholders.
- Increase awareness of the Museum through speaking engagements, networking, and public events.
Campus Development
- Lead planning and implementation of campus improvements, facility enhancements, and future development projects.
- Oversee major capital improvement, construction, and preservation initiatives.
Organizational Leadership
- Provide leadership and support for department managers and staff.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and mission-driven workplace culture.
- Ensure organizational compliance with all applicable laws, policies, and nonprofit best practices.
Board Relations
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Trustees and Museum staff.
- Prepare reports and recommendations for Board meetings.
- Implement Board-approved strategic initiatives and policies.
Leadership Responsibilities
The Executive Director provides leadership and oversight for Museum operations through department managers and supervisors, including:
- Museum Manager
- Museum Curator
- Education Programs
- Marketing & Communications
- Volunteer Services
- Gift Shop Operations
- Facilities & Maintenance
- Additional staff and contractors as assigned
- Develop innovative initiatives that expand the Museum’s educational and community impact.
- Identify opportunities to maximize the use and value of the Museum’s 27-acre campus.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in nonprofit leadership, business administration, museum management, education, public administration, or a related field.
- Five or more years of progressive leadership experience.
- Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor development, sponsorships, or nonprofit revenue generation.
- Experience managing budgets and organizational finances.
- Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Experience supervising professional staff and volunteers.
Preferred
- Master’s degree in a related field.
- Museum, cultural institution, education, or nonprofit leadership experience.
- Experience working with nonprofit Boards of Directors.
- Capital campaign or major gift fundraising experience.
- Familiarity with Colorado history, mining, engineering, STEM education, or cultural heritage organizations.
Core Competencies
- Strategic Leadership
- Fundraising & Development
- Financial Stewardship
- Community Engagement
- Public Relations
- Organizational Management
- Project Leadership
- Board Governance
- Partnership Development
- Communication & Collaboration
Compensation
Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Why Join WMMI?
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Colorado’s premier historical and educational institutions. The Executive Director will have the opportunity to expand educational programming, strengthen community partnerships, grow fundraising efforts, and help transform the Museum into a regional destination for history, STEM education, and cultural engagement.
Join us as we empower individuals from underserved communities through innovative programs rooted in compassion and excellence! This role offers an inspiring opportunity for a dedicated leader ready to make a lasting difference through impactful management and community engagement.
Pay: $80,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
