Executive Director

Executive Director – Lee County Black History Society Location: Fort Myers, FL Salary Range: $80,000 – $100,000 (commensurate with experience) Reports to: Board of Directors Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt About the Organization The Lee County Black History Society is dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans in Lee County and beyond. Through exhibitions, educational programs, cultural events, and community partnerships, the Society and the Williams Academy Museum serve as a vital center for history, learning, and inspiration for people of all ages and backgrounds. Position Summary The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive officer of the organization, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and visionary direction. The ED will be responsible for implementing the organization’s mission and strategic plan, managing finances and staff, fundraising, cultivating community and donor relationships, and ensuring the Society and Museum’s continued growth and sustainability. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Strategic Management Implement the strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors and staff. Provide visionary leadership and direction for all organizational programs, operations, and initiatives to advance the mission, goals, and long-term strategic plan. Build a strong, inclusive organizational culture grounded in respect, transparency, and accountability. Work collaboratively with the Board to establish policies, strategic direction, and measurable objectives. Lead organizational planning, annual operating goals, and performance evaluation processes. Foster a positive, mission-driven culture for staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders Serve as the public face and primary spokesperson for the organization. Supervisory Management Oversee daily operations, including exhibits, collections, visitor services, and facility management. Ensure compliance with professional museum standards, policies, and legal requirements. Direct HR functions: hiring, training, staff development, and performance evaluations. Implement technology and operational systems to improve visitor experience and internal efficiency. Oversee marketing, public relations, social media and outreach to enhance visibility and attendance. Develop and oversee annual budgets, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability, in collaboration with the Board. Maintain sound financial practices, including accurate reporting and compliance with all laws and regulations. Work with the Board’s Finance Committee to monitor financial performance and investments. Identify new funding sources and diversify revenue streams through grants, corporate sponsorships, memberships, admissions, programs, events and earned income opportunities. Lead and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to achieve annual revenue goals. Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners. Oversee grant writing, sponsorships, and fundraising events. Strengthen membership engagement and philanthropic giving. Represent the museum at community, cultural, and philanthropic events. Supervise and support museum staff in the development of exhibits, collections, programs, and community events. Ensure historical accuracy, educational integrity, and cultural sensitivity in all museum activities. Advance public engagement through innovative programming and partnerships with schools, universities, and cultural institutions. Develop programs and community activities which further the mission of LCBHS and benefit the community. Community & Public Relations Act as a visible ambassador and advocate for the organization in the community and beyond. Strengthen relationships with civic leaders, partner organizations, and media. Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion as core organizational values. Governance & Board Relations Partner with the Board of Directors to set strategic goals and ensure effective governance. Prepare timely and accurate reports for the Board. Support Board recruitment, training, and engagement. Qualifications Education Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Museum Studies, History, African American Studies, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred. Experience Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience, preferably in a nonprofit, museum, cultural, or educational setting. Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant management, and financial oversight. Experience working with or serving on a Board of Directors. Proven ability to lead staff and volunteers in a mission-driven organization. Visionary leadership with strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills. Financial acumen, including budget creation and analysis. Grant writing and fundraising expertise. Knowledge of MSWord, PowerPoint, Publisher, Past Perfect, QuickBooks, Dropbox. G Suit, Ability to inspire and build trust across diverse constituencies. Supervisory skills, especially relevant to paid staff, contractors, volunteers, and administrative management of an organization. Interpersonal and team interaction skills. Ability to work with diverse community and ad hoc committees Annual salary range: $80,000 – $100,000, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits package includes paid time off and professional development opportunities. Application Process Interested candidates should submit the following: 1. A cover letter describing interest and qualifications. 2. A current résumé 3. Three professional references. #J-18808-Ljbffr