Director, National Museum of African American History and Culture

The client is seeking a Director to lead a major cultural institution devoted to exploring, documenting, and showcasing the African American experience and its impact on American and world history. The role will help guide the museum into its second decade by advancing scholarship, strengthening community engagement, and expanding reach across digital, educational, and international audiences. The Director develops and directs all aspects of museum programs and activities, providing high-level leadership and advocacy on behalf of the field of African American culture. Key responsibilities include serving as the museum’s primary ambassador and advocate; overseeing overall operations and staff management; leading acquisition planning and collection management; creating educational and liaison programs aligned to the institution’s mission; and developing and administering research programs while maintaining high standards of scholarship. The ideal candidate will have a background in art, history, and culture, museum education, arts management, or a closely related area, with additional education in related fields being preferred. The position calls for demonstrated strategic leadership, including progressively responsible experience in a museum or relevant educational or cultural organization and senior executive experience; a strong commitment to public history; fundraising understanding and experience building philanthropic relationships; proven operational excellence in finance and operations management; exceptional written and verbal communication; and the ability to foster a positive, inclusive working environment that supports staff morale. Confidential