Executive Director, The Chisholm, Kingfisher, OK

The Chisholm, Oklahoma’s Farming and Ranching Heritage Museum, is seeking a full-time executive director to ensure the successful operation of the museum. Established in 1964, the museum is an affiliate of the Oklahoma Historical Society and operates through a unique collaborative partnership with the nonprofit board, OHS, and Kingfisher County. The mission of The Chisholm is to collect, preserve, and share the story of farming and ranching heritage across Oklahoma from its historical past through contemporary issues.

About the Role:

The executive director is responsible for the museum's day-to-day operations and will provide strategic leadership and oversight for its long-term sustainability. This position oversees 3-4 museum staff, educational program development, community engagement, and fundraising. The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of relevant education and administrative experience in a history-based museum.

Leadership and Board Relations:

·         Collaborates with the governing board to develop and implement institutional goals and long-range plans.

·         Report regularly to the board on institutional development, finance, and project management.

·         Collaborate and report regularly on museum programming, projects, and institutional goals to the OHS.

Administrative Oversight:

·         Supervise and oversee daily operations, including staff management, educational programming, volunteers, collections management, marketing, and finance.

·         Coordinate maintenance and repairs with the OHS and other outside vendors.

·         Engage with local outside stakeholders such as the Kingfisher Chamber of Commerce and the Red Carpet Country regional tourism group.

·         Manage museum marketing campaigns.

·         Manage museum social media with the assistance of staff.

·         Serve as the primary liaison with the OHS and Kingfisher County.

·         With staff assistance, develop and implement new exhibits.

·         Manage gift shop purchasing.  

·         Cultivate a culture of innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

·         Ensure compliance with professional, ethical, and legal standards.

Fundraising and Fiscal Responsibility

·         Develop and track annual budgets and expenses.

·         Facilitate all fundraising efforts, including sponsorships, grants, and donations.

·         Coordinate financial reporting with the board treasurer and outside accounting services.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications and experience:

·         Bachelor's degree in history, museum studies, or a related field, Master's degree preferred.

·         A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in museum administration or management.

·         A demonstrated background in the management and operation of a small museum, historic site, or other similar venue

·         Experience developing and implementing educational programs and community events

·         Experience writing and managing grants

·         Demonstrated experience working with a nonprofit board of directors

Compensation and Benefits:

·         $62,500 - $72,500 depending on qualifications and experience.

·         100% employer-paid medical, vision, and accidental death and disability

·         Participation in an employer-paid SIMPLE IRA retirement program with a federally regulated 3% match

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume or CV, and three professional references to info@thechisholm.org for consideration by May 23, 2025.

More information on this position can be found at www.thechisholm.org/employment.