Executive Director

The Executive Director is the key management leader of the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum. This individual is responsible for overseeing the administration, fund development, programs, and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include donor relations, fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors.

General Responsibilities

1) Board Governance

Works with the board to fulfill the organization’s mission.

• Leads the Museum in a manner that supports and guides the mission as defined by the Board of Directors.

• Communicates effectively with the Board, providing timely and accurate information needed for sound governance, especially related to financial health and fundraising progress.

2) Financial Performance and Viability

Develops resources sufficient to ensure the financial health of the organization.

• Maintains the fiscal integrity of the Museum, including preparing and submitting an annual budget and regular financial reports to the Board.

• Oversees responsible fiscal management to operate within budget, ensuring maximum resource utilization and long-term financial sustainability.

• Leads fund development efforts, including donor cultivation and stewardship, grant writing, major gifts, membership campaigns, sponsorship development, and planned giving strategies.

• Builds and maintains strong relationships with existing and prospective donors, foundations, and corporate partners to support the Museum’s mission.

3) Organization Mission and Strategy

Works with the board and staff to fulfill the mission through programs, planning, and outreach.

• Implements programs aligned with the Museum’s mission and community needs.

• Leads strategic planning efforts to position the Museum for future success.

• Enhances the Museum’s public image by maintaining a visible presence in the community and developing collaborative partnerships.

• Coordinates mission-aligned fundraising campaigns to support strategic initiatives and capital projects.

4) Organization Operations

Oversees and implements resources to ensure efficient operations.

• Administers all operational functions of the Museum.

• Recruits, hires, and retains qualified staff.

• Signs contracts and official documents on behalf of the organization.

• Ensures that development systems, donor databases, and reporting tools are well-managed and aligned with industry best practices.

Professional Qualifications

• Master’s degree related to museum studies, or a bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant museum operations experience (preferred). Five or more years of senior nonprofit management experience or relevant experience with nonprofits may substitute.

• Proven fundraising experience with a successful track record in donor engagement and major gift solicitation. Preferably well-connected with Waukesha County philanthropists and corporate supporters.

• Strong budget management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, and financial reporting.

• Strong organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage programs and fundraising initiatives simultaneously.

• Broad knowledge of museum operations, including collections, exhibitions, and archival practices.

• Ability to articulate a compelling vision of the Museum’s future to staff, board, community, and funders.

• Transparent, high-integrity leadership with an entrepreneurial mindset and donor-centric approach.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially for grant applications, appeals, and fundraising materials.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate with staff, volunteers, board members, and donors.

• Public speaking and community engagement experience.

Actual Job Responsibilities

1. Lead the planning and operation of the annual budget with a focus on sustainability.

2. Establish administrative and employment policies for smooth daily operations.

3. Serve as the Museum’s primary spokesperson to constituents, media, funders, and the public.

4. Develop and maintain relationships with organizations and stakeholders to enhance mission delivery.

5. Lead the creation and execution of a comprehensive development plan, including donor cultivation, events, sponsorships, and grants.

6. Track fundraising metrics and report progress to the Board regularly.

7. Partner with the Board on policy development, fundraising strategies, and increasing visibility.

8. Supervise and support staff in all departments, including development.

9. Oversee and implement the strategic plan.

10. Manage Board and committee meetings.

11. Lead marketing, public relations, and communication efforts.

12. Review and authorize contracts and service agreements.

13. Perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.