Job Listing: Executive Director (Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum)

Job Description:  Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, Wytheville, Virginia

Position: Executive Director

The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum is a nationally significant historic site in Wytheville, Virginia, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the early life and legacy of Edith Bolling Wilson. First Lady Mrs. Wilson is known as one of the most influential women in the twentieth century. Housed in her birthplace and childhood home, the museum connects local history to the national story through engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and ongoing preservation of the Bolling Home. As both a cultural anchor for the community and a growing heritage tourism destination, the museum offers a unique opportunity to lead a small but impactful institution at a pivotal moment of restoration, expansion, and increased public engagement.

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, providing visionary leadership and strategic direction to assess, develop, and advance the museum’s mission, sustainability, and public impact. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, community partners, and stakeholders, the Executive Director is responsible for overall management, programming, preservation, fundraising, and promotion of the museum as a cultural, educational, and tourism asset.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Provide leadership to advance the mission, vision, and long-term strategic goals of the museum.
• Partner with the Board of Trustees to develop and implement strategic plans, policies, and organizational priorities.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the museum within the community, region, and beyond.

Administration & Operations

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including staff supervision, volunteer coordination, and facility management.
• Ensure effective administrative systems, policies, and procedures are in place.
• Maintain compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to nonprofit operations and historic preservation.

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board.
• Monitor financial performance, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.
• Oversee financial reporting, grant compliance, and audit processes as required.

Fundraising & Development

• Lead all fundraising efforts, including grants, individual giving, corporate sponsorships, special events, and public funding.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, government entities, and community partners.
• Expand the museum’s donor base and strengthen philanthropic support.

Programming, Education & Interpretation

• Oversee development and implementation of engaging exhibits, educational programs, and public events that interpret the life and legacy of Edith Bolling Wilson.
• Foster partnerships with schools, tourism organizations, and civic groups to expand audience reach.

Marketing, Communications & Tourism

• Promote the museum as a destination that contributes to local and regional tourism.
• Oversee marketing, public relations, and digital communications strategies to increase visibility and visitation.
• Collaborate with tourism partners to enhance the museum’s role in heritage tourism initiatives.

Preservation & Collections

• Ensure responsible stewardship of the historic property, collections, and artifacts.
• Work with preservation professionals and partners to plan and implement restoration and maintenance projects.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of leadership experience in a nonprofit, museum, cultural, or related organization including strategic planning and resource development.
• Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Management, Economic and Community Development, or related field is desirable
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
• Strong financial management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Marketing knowledge including use of social media platforms for organizational and event promotion.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a governing board, staff, volunteers, and diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience with historic house museums or cultural heritage organizations
• Knowledge of tourism development and community partnerships
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to lead growth and innovation
• Ability to meet the pubic and personally promote the museum
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the museum’s mission.

For more information: www.edithbollingwilson.org

Employment Type: Full-time

Compensation: Commensurate with experience

To apply:  Submit Cover Letter and Resumé to: info@edithbollingwilson.org