Association of Academic Museums & Galleries. is hiring: Executive Director i

Executive Director – Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University BACKGROUND Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University (the Danforth) is seeking a visionary, innovative and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization as it embarks on its new life as part of Framingham State University (FSU). As its chief executive, she/he is responsible for the Danforth’s artistic excellence and intellectual direction. The Danforth reopened in several steps with the School reopening in Spring 2018 and the entire Museum reopening in April 2019 in state‑of‑the‑art FSU space to great acclaim. The committed Board of Directors and now-retiring Executive Director navigated the complex process to save and move the Danforth, its collection and the School while maintaining part-time programming and exhibitions. Established in 1975, the Danforth has become a vital cultural resource. Framingham, Massachusetts, is just 20 miles west of Boston, and appreciation for the Danforth’s vibrant exhibits and educational experiences is growing in the region. With a collection of American art ranging from the early 19th Century to present day, a primary focus for the Danforth is showcasing contemporary art by both emerging and established artists primarily in New England. The new space at FSU has allowed the Danforth to showcase the Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller Collection, known for celebrating African-American heritage. The Danforth’s collection is owned by the Framingham State University Foundation, Inc. The Foundation’s Board of Directors has final authorization for all acquisitions and deaccessioning on the recommendation of the Executive Director and the Danforth Collections Committee. With the partnership with FSU, the Danforth will develop an ambitious strategic direction to showcase the 3,500-work permanent collection, expand all-ages education, and integrate with FSU’s life and curriculum. Reporting Relationships/Primary Responsibilities The Danforth Executive Director will report to the FSU Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations. The Executive Director will lead a devoted team to ensure the success of the Danforth within the FSU community and the public regionally. The Executive Director develops and implements the Danforth’s strategic direction and is accountable for all aspects of the Museum’s operation, with special priority on planning, fundraising, and community engagement. Immediate Priorities During the first several months, the Executive Director will focus on learning the Danforth’s organization, programs, finances, collections, and fundraising. She/he will cultivate relationships with patrons and funding sources. Ongoing Responsibilities The Executive Director is responsible for the following activities: Builds and maintains effective relationships with local and regional constituencies. Ensures the fiscal health of the Danforth through fundraising. Prepares the annual operating budgets and oversees financial performance. Hires and supervises the Danforth’s staff. Ensures the proper care and conservation of the permanent collection. Oversees the Danforth’s marketing and communications strategies. Develops and implements policies for effective operation. Works with FSU departments on collaborative programming. Serves as a mentor and manages staff for optimal performance. Ideal Qualifications and Characteristics The Executive Director will combine excellent people skills, managerial savvy, and artistic perception. She/he will have at least seven years’ experience in a senior-level position in an art museum or related organization, with knowledge of curatorial, museum education, marketing, and fundraising functions. A Master’s degree in Art History or a relevant field is required. Among the important qualities are leadership skills, familiarity with the visual arts, programmatic creativity, and enthusiasm for leading the Danforth. Compensation and benefits are competitive. Framingham State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. LOCATION Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University is located in Framingham, Massachusetts, twenty miles west of Boston. * * * Framingham State University has retained Opportunity Resources Inc. to execute the search for the Executive Director of Danforth Art Museum at FSU. Inquiries, nominations, and applications should be sent electronically to search@opportunityresources.net. #J-18808-Ljbffr