Executive Director-Albany Civil Rights - PT (W / Benefits)

The Position

The purpose of this classification is to provide visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational management for the Albany Georgia Civil Rights Institute. The Executive Director serves as the Institute's chief administrator and public face, responsible for preserving and interpreting Albany and Southwest Georgia's rich civil rights history while advancing educational, cultural, and community engagement initiatives. The position oversees all aspects of governance, programming, fundraising, and partnership development to ensure the Institute remains a vital resource for civil rights education and dialogue. Distinguishing Characteristics : This is a senior-level, part-time (w / benefits) executive position requiring a dynamic leader with the ability to inspire staff, volunteers, and the community. The role demands strong relationship-building skills, deep knowledge of civil rights history, and the capacity to navigate complex cultural, historical, and political contexts with integrity and diplomacy.

Duties

Essential Functions : The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Strategic Leadership & Governance : Develops, implements, and evaluates strategic plans, goals, and objectives to advance the Institute's mission. Advises and works closely with the Board of Directors (or oversight body) on governance, policy, and long-term planning. Ensures compliance with legal, ethical, and professional museum standards.
• Public Engagement & Advocacy : Serves as the principal spokesperson, ambassador, and media representative for the Institute. Builds and maintains relationships with community leaders, partner institutions, schools, and national civil rights organizations. Advocates for the protection, preservation, and interpretation of Albany's civil rights history.
• Program Development & Operations : Oversees design, curation, and implementation of exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives. Ensures programming reflects historical accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and community relevance. Implements strategies to increase visitation, membership, and community participation.
• Fundraising & Financial Stewardship : Develops and manages annual and project-specific budgets. Leads fundraising efforts, including major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and donor cultivation. Ensures transparent financial reporting and sound fiscal management.
• Organizational Management : Recruits, trains, and supervises staff and volunteers; fosters a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture. Oversees facility operations, security, and maintenance in coordination with City staff. Implements policies, procedures, and best practices for operational efficiency.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in History, Museum Studies, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or related field required; Master's degree preferred. Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in museum leadership, nonprofit administration, cultural programming, or a closely related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience providing the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. civil rights history, with specific understanding of Albany and Southwest Georgia's role. Proven success in fundraising, grant writing, and resource development. Strong public speaking, media relations, and community engagement skills. Specific Licenses or Certifications Required : Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license.

Core Competencies & ADA Compliance

Performance Aptitudes : Data Utilization : Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret program and financial data to inform strategic decisions. Human Interaction : Ability to build consensus and foster productive relationships across diverse stakeholders. Verbal Aptitude : Ability to communicate compellingly to inspire engagement and support. Mathematical Aptitude : Ability to prepare and monitor budgets, grants, and fundraising projections. Functional Reasoning : Ability to anticipate trends, respond to emerging opportunities, and develop innovative solutions. Situational Reasoning : Ability to navigate sensitive historical topics with empathy, accuracy, and professionalism. ADA Compliance : Physical Ability : Tasks may require light physical effort, including lifting up to 20 pounds, setting up program spaces, and moving exhibit materials. Sensory Requirements : Requires the ability to communicate effectively, read printed materials, and operate standard office / museum equipment. Environmental Factors : Work is typically performed in an office and museum environment with frequent evening and weekend events. The City of Albany, GA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Town will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.