Description
REPORTS TO: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Coastal Georgia Historical Society, an AAM-accredited organization, is seeking a visionary leader and historian to fill the position of Deputy Executive Director of Collections and Education. The position will partner with the Executive Director and Board to develop and deliver strategic goals as the premier historical research and education institution in southern Coastal Georgia. The successful candidate will be a thought leader for the organization, serve as an ambassador and build relationships throughout the coastal region, and provide inspiration to collections and education staff and volunteers.
The position has two areas of responsibility: (1) managing all activities to grow, preserve and enhance the Society’s collections, including preservation of the historic structures, and (2) directing the development of public programming, as well as the presentation and interpretation of Coastal Georgia history at the Society’s two museums – the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum (1872) and the World War II Home Front Museum (1936). The Deputy Executive Director will lead an energetic array of educational programs for adults and children that expand awareness of Coastal Georgia’s dynamic history. The position will also actively develop the collections and be responsible for their care according to best practices.
Requirements
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
Collections and Historic Preservation Management
Direct the Society's collections management activities, adhering to professionally recognized standards.
Oversee acquisition, preservation, care, and maintenance of collections, including artifacts, photographs, documentary records, and other materials, such as archaeological collections.
Manage development, research, and planning of exhibitions.
Supervise database development and collections management system.
Is responsible for executing Preservation Maintenance Plans for the historic structures, including planning and oversight of preservation projects.
Work with preservation experts and the Coast Guard Auxiliary to ensure that the St. Simons Lighthouse, an Active Aid to Navigation, is properly maintained.
Interpretation and Educational Programming
Implement and oversee an interpretive plan for both museums that includes development of new exhibits and other vehicles for sharing the stories of Coastal Georgia history.
Lead the Public Programming Committee to develop engaging programs, such as lectures and field trips, for both Society members and wider audiences.
Supervise the Education Director in developing successful programs/resources, both onsite, in the classroom and virtual, for school children and for families.
Assist with Society publications, including the quarterly newsletter and social media, and provide a framework for scholarly research and other scholarly activities within the Society 's stated mission.
Promote interest in Coastal Georgia history by making presentations to diverse audiences and working with public relations staff.
Ensure that excellence and accuracy are maintained across all forms of interpretation, programming, and media.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR POSITION:
Master of Arts degree in history or museum studies; 8-10 years of experience.
Strong knowledge of museum best practices; meticulous, highly organized, and conscientious.
Knowledge of Coastal Georgia history and culture, with eagerness to expand this knowledge.
Excellent oral and written communication skills; must be comfortable with public speaking.
Demonstrated experience in exhibit design.
Leader and strategic thinker who can deliver strategic goals through effective delegation and people management.
Dynamic and collaborative team player who works well with a multitude of people (staff, volunteers, Society members, museum visitors).
