Historic Waco Foundation is searching for our next Executive Director. We encourage interested individuals to apply by submitting an email to the Executive Director Search Committee at the credentials below.

About our Organization and Community:

The Historic Waco Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1967 to preserve the heritage of Waco and McLennan County, Texas through the presentation of diverse historical experiences for audiences of all ages. We do so by showcasing and maintaining a variety of historic properties located within and near the city’s bustling Downtown Cultural District.

Waco is strategically located on the I-35 corridor along the Brazos River between Dallas and Austin in the heart of one of the fastest growing areas in the country. The community has a rich historical heritage and thriving economy and downtown.  Due to the world-class resources and lifestyle that Waco offers including the Downtown Cultural District, Cameron Park, Cameron Park Zoo, a variety of arts, culture and history museums, Baylor University and the Silo District, the community is experiencing rapid growth and attracts 2.5 million visitors annually.

The Leader We Seek:

Historic Waco Foundation seeks a dynamic and energetic leader that will work closely with a passionate and supportive Board of Directors to advance the goals of the organization. The Executive Director will oversee the maintenance and operation of three interpreted historic house museums—Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, East Terrace House, and McCulloch House—and serve as an advocate for history, heritage, and preservation within the community at-large.

Overall responsibilities include:

-Recommend policies and plans to the Board for discussion and review and implement those approved

-Communicate effectively and regularly with the Board on matters pertinent to the strategic goals, mission, and financial health of the Foundation

-Responsible to hire, manage, motivate, and retain a highly qualified and diverse staff

-Plan, promote, staff, and implement events and fundraisers that support our mission and connect with the community.

-Develop strategies to increase other revenue streams for the Foundation including, but not limited to, the submission of financial requests to grantors and foundations for the organization’s maintenance, operation, and programming needs.

-Responsible for the financial management of the organization including implementing and overseeing the annual budgets, obtaining bids, negotiating contracts, obtaining and maintaining insurance (property, liability and workers comp) and grant procurement.

-Responsible for the fiscal integrity of the Foundation through management and adherence of approved budgets to ensure maximum resource utilization to maintain a positive financial position.

-Professionally represent the organization as principal spokesperson and grow the Foundation’s visibility by being active and visible in the community.

-Serve as a liaison between historians, exhibitors, and other consultants for programs and activities.

Museum/Interpretation specific responsibilities include:

-Hands-on oversight of the Foundation’s properties to ensure they are properly maintained by providing professional advice and direction regarding the need for restoration, repair and maintenance.

-Responsible for daily operation of programs

-Oversee safe and secure storage and ongoing care of the collections in accordance with industry standards.

-Oversee collection, program and exhibit development and management

-Oversee and participate in the documentation, research, and interpretation of collection items

-Actively lead and participate in every aspect of each events held onsite

Our Ideal Candidate Will Have the Following:

-Strong leadership skills and the ability to influence and inspire staff, supporters, board members, and members of the community to strengthen the organization and support our mission.

-Basic accounting, budgeting, and strategic planning skills

-Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, partners, donors, influences, and volunteers

-Ability to develop and sustain a clear vision and strategic focus

-Strong oral and written communication skills, organizational skills, and presentation skills

-Comprehensive knowledge of MS Office Suite

-Demonstrated success and proficiency in grant writing

-Demonstrated ability to advocate for and promote history

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/Management, Museum Administration, Public History, Communication, Tourism or related field. Master’s degree in related field preferred

Experience:

5 years of demonstrated leadership and fiscal management of a nonprofit organization

Hours:

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday (some evening and weekends for meetings/events)

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

Compensation: $60,000-64,000 per year, commensurate with experience

Benefits:

• Generous health insurance stipend

• Generous paid time leave/holiday leave

• 3.0% employer match to qualified retirement plan

Work Location:

• Multiple locations in Waco

Work Remotely:

• No

Application details

Interested applicants should a send a resume, cover letter and three professional references to: HWF Executive Director Search Committee, jclynch2003@gmail.com for consideration.