Job Title: Executive Director

Organization: Sanford Springvale Historical Society (SSHS)

Location: Sanford - Springvale, Maine

Position Type: Part time - 24 hours per week, $25 -$30 per hour depending on experience

Summary:

This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and dynamic individual to have an impact on the Sanford Springvale Historical Society and community.  The ideal Executive Director will modernize the organization, pursue strategic priorities, and greatly enhance our visibility and significance in Sanford and the surrounding communities. Help us bring the rich and interesting history of Sanford-Springvale into the future.

Job Overview:

As the first Executive Director you will manage the day to day activities of the Society, be responsible for executing the strategic vision, operational oversight, and effective management of all organizational aspects. You will report to the President of the Board of Directors and will collaboratively work with board members, volunteers, and external stakeholders to ensure the continued success and growth of the Sanford-Springvale Historical Society.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement a strategic plan that aligns with the organization's mission and goals.
• Provide leadership to guide the museum towards long-term sustainability and relevance.
• Foster curiosity and creativity in programming and exhibits.

Operational Management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including budgeting, and resource allocation in collaboration with the board of directors.
• Ensure the efficient and professional functioning of all aspects of the museum by establishing best practices, for acquisitions, cataloging, collections management, education, outreach, and visitor services.
• Work closely with staff/volunteers to promote a positive and collaborative culture.
• Maintain membership files and attend monthly board meetings and present the director’s report.

Fundraising and Development:

• Lead fundraising efforts to secure financial support from government grants, private, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events.
• Develop and execute effective fundraising campaigns.

Community Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with the local community, government agencies, educational institutions, and other relevant organizations.
• Develop and implement community outreach programs to increase public awareness, memberships and involvement.

Public Relations and Marketing:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, representing it to the media, donors, and the public.
• Implement effective marketing strategies to promote exhibits, events, and educational programs.
• Utilize social media and other communication channels to enhance the organization's visibility.

Qualifications

Degree in Museum Studies, History, Nonprofit Management, or a related field or relevant experience.

Proven experience in a museum, historical society, or cultural institution.

Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget and fiscal management.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Demonstrated success in fundraising and grant writing a plus.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to lfurbish@sanfordhistory.org. The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer. All offers will be subject to background and reference checks.

About Us:

The Sanford Historical Committee was formed as a committee of the (then) Town in 1927 to acquire, preserve, and display items of historical significance to Sanford and Springvale. The Committee’s efforts have resulted in a large collection of artifacts, manuscript materials, historic glass plate negatives and printed items representing nearly every facet of the city’s history. 

The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society, was incorporated as 501 c3 non-profit in 2005 for the purpose of creating a Historical Museum for Sanford and Springvale. That year, the Society received title from the city for the former Town Hall in Springvale, a historic building built in 1873, and after extensive renovation and work was opened as the Historical Museum in 2006. In conjunction with the Sanford Historical Committee, the Society collects, preserves, and displays artifacts, documents, records, photographs and other materials and objects of historical interest to the city. The society makes its collections available to the public and offers educational opportunities through museum open hours and special tours for schools and other groups. It encourages interest in history through its newsletter and public lectures and offers a concert series to enhance the community's cultural life.

The Edmund E. Goodwin House next door to the Museum, was acquired by the Society in 2014. A classic Queen Anne style home with many unaltered features, both interior and exterior, the house is considered an architectural gem. It and the Museum are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The maintenance of the Museum, the Goodwin House,  and the work of the Historical Society are supported by a modest annual city appropriation, revenue from Historical Society memberships, individual contributions including a significant endowment from the Virginia Morin Trust,  and special fundraising events.