Executive Director, Woodlawn

About Woodlawn

Woodlawn is a 180 acre historic estate located near downtown Ellsworth, Maine. Built in 1827 for John Black, Woodlawn’s collection includes original furnishings from three generations of the Black family as well as sleighs and carriages. 

Woodlawn’s grounds are important to its history. Initially John Black’s gentleman’s farm, the grounds now include over two miles of trails, several open fields and gardens, and a regulation size croquet court that hosts three national tournaments each summer. Woodlawn hosts numerous community educational and recreational events utilizing the grounds year-round. 

The recently completed, fully accessible Woodlawn barn will open for business in July 2024 greatly expanding the ways in which Woodlawn will be able to fulfill its mission to promote Downeast Maine’s cultural heritage through diverse educational and recreational experiences. The barn includes an education and event center available to community groups, business and corporate meetings, weddings and other private functions as well as Woodlawn sponsored events. house Woodlawn’s archives. The second story contains a library for archival research and a conference room. 

Summary of Responsibilities: 

• Works collaboratively with the Board of Trustees to implement the strategic direction and establish initiatives to fulfill the mission of Woodlawn. 
• Directs all aspects of Woodlawn’s operations, to include development, education and public programming, finance, external communications, property management, events, and staffing. 
• Provides effective oversight of Woodlawn’s finances including collaboration with the Finance Committee to develop the annual budget and staffing plan and ensures responsible financial stewardship.
• Manages and leads staff, volunteers, and consultants, fosters an engaged board and acts as liaison between the Board and staff in order to pursue organizational goals.
• Leads and participates in all fundraising and development activities, including grant writing and developing relationships with foundations, corporations, and individual donors. 
• Serves as spokesperson and chief advocate for Woodlawn. 
• Establishes strong partnerships in the community. 
• Directs the overall development of public relations and marketing initiatives. 
• Develops an effective communications plan to raise the profile of Woodlawn
• Oversees the management of 180-acre campus and facilities of Woodlawn as well as the collections held in public trust.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of three years of relevant leadership experience is required; background in and/or experience in cultural landscape/historical sites/museum administration preferred.
• Proven ability to maintain a strong and collaborative relationship with diverse stakeholders, including board trustees, staff, volunteers, donors and community leaders
• Demonstrated leadership in managing complex systems including budgeting and finance, buildings management, fundraising, and personnel management.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise, as well as to work successfully with staff and volunteers.  
• Strong fundraising skills with demonstrated experience in successfully developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising program, including individual, corporate, and foundation contributions.
• A management style that is goal-oriented but flexible, respecting the capabilities and independence of volunteers and staff alike, demonstrating the ability to listen and respect divergent views while providing a clear sense of direction.
• Ability to think strategically, tactically and creatively; demonstrating an entrepreneurial approach to running a nonprofit organization as a successful business.
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task efficiently and respond to a high volume of ongoing requests in a timely fashion. Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic work environment. Ability to work effectively with frequent interruptions required. Able to handle frequently changing and/or unscheduled tasks with accuracy. Entrepreneurial spirit and skill set a plus.
• Knowledge of and commitment to museum best practices preferred.
• Proficiency in workplace technology including database management, Microsoft Word and Excel, Constant Contact, Zoom, website management, and GoogleSuite.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively present, write and listen.
• Impeccable personal and professional integrity.
• High energy level with dedication and perseverance in achieving agreed objectives and ability to inspire the organization at all levels.

Pay and Benefits:

• This is a full-time, exempt position; benefits available including potential housing
• Salary range: $68,000- $75,000 based on experience

How to Apply 

• Send an electronic submission consisting of a single pdf including a cover letter and resume to Andymatthews555@gmail.com
• Review of applications will begin June 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled

For detailed information and to view the complete job description, visit www.woodlawnellsworth.org