Director, Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation, National Museum of American History

the client is seeking a Director to set the vision and mission for its invention and innovation center and provide strategic, creative leadership across all areas of operation. The director will oversee and manage center programs, staff, and budget responsibilities, including stewardship of an endowment of approximately $25 million. This role will lead research, fundraising, and public engagement efforts that support both permanent and temporary exhibitions, public programs, educational initiatives, and special projects. The director will serve as a key advocate to advance invention education and shape how innovation is explored and shared with audiences. The center works to empower public participation in technological, economic, and social change through original historical research, educational initiatives, exhibitions, and innovative public programs. The director will guide efforts that build connections between inventors and audiences and foster a public spirit of inventiveness. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strategic leadership, including the ability to develop and advance strategic planning aligned with organizational goals, navigate a complex organization, prioritize and allocate resources, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. The role also calls for critical and creative thinking, knowledge of the museum field and leadership practices, and experience leading cross-functional teams in a collaborative environment. Candidates should be able to inspire an inventive mindset through education-focused work, support fundraising by securing funding from diverse sources and building stakeholder relationships, and communicate effectively while demonstrating integrity, empathy, curiosity, clarity, accountability, and humor. Confidential