Executive Director

Rye Historical Society 

Square House and Knapp House

Executive Director Position

Overview

The Rye Historical Society seeks an energetic, creative, dedicated, and goal-oriented leader to serve as the Society’s next Executive Director.  This full-time position, which includes occasional pre-agreed evening and weekend hours, requires oversight of 4 part-time and full-time staff and volunteers as well as college and high school interns and collaboration with a 20-person volunteer Board of Directors.

The Rye Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, devoted to preserving and celebrating the unique historic heritage of Rye, New York, the surrounding areas and the organization’s two properties, the Square House Museum and the Timothy Knapp House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as an extensive archives collection. The Executive Director is a dynamic, goal-oriented leader responsible for oversight of the Society’s strategy, operations, and financial management and development.  A strategic vision for non-profit growth and fundraising and communications acumen are vital skill sets for the successful candidate. Knowledge of American and regional history, and of the historic preservation field, are valued.  The Society seeks to be innovative, sustainable, and inclusive, balancing stewardship, audience development, and civic service.

The Executive Director serves as the spokesperson for the Society in the community; drives membership and fundraising, collaborates with other local organizations, volunteers, local and state government; and strives to advance the Society’s mission to promote the importance of preserving the rich history of Rye and Westchester County.  

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who enjoys wearing many hats and working with an active Board and vibrant community of volunteers, to grow our 60 year old organization. The Executive Director receives an annual salary of between $65,000 and $75,000 with potential for growth.   

Position Details

This is an in-person full time position performed on-site at the Square House Museum, and, on an as-needed basis, at the Knapp House and archives facility. The Executive Director will be required to interact with the public, accommodate occasional weekend and evening hours, and attend events. The position includes certain physical demands working on-site in historic buildings.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning: Review, in collaboration with the Board, and update Strategic Plan to guide the Society’s strategy in the future and execute on defined goals in accordance with agreed timelines. 
• Development: Develop and execute a plan for the Society’s fundraising efforts, including: setting fundraising goals; track fundraising progress and report progress to Board; prepare for and oversee Capital Campaign; identify, develop and pursue grant opportunities.
• Operational Oversight: Oversee and report to the Board regarding:
• Ongoing financial management, reporting and annual budget;
• Paid and volunteer staff, hiring, defining responsibilities, objectives and providing organizational leadership;
• Maintenance and preservation of the Square House, Knapp House, and grounds;
• Development and preservation of collections and archives;
• Exhibit and programming development and execution.
• Community Outreach & Membership: Serve as the Society’s primary spokesperson; cultivate programs and events to further the Society’s mission, membership and presence in the community; work with staff to promote Society events and activities; ensure effective execution of communications and public relations efforts.

Qualifications/Skills

• Bachelor's degree and minimum 4+ years experience in the areas of Museum and/or Non-Profit Management, or a related field
• Knowledge of, and interest in, American history, particularly 17^th- and 18^th-century American history  
• Knowledge of professional museum and historic preservations policies and practices.  Professional development is supported through coaching and mentorship
• Financial management expertise, including budgeting and financial reporting 
• Proven record of fundraising success
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; communicate clearly and concisely in written and verbal form
• Strong organizational and management skills, detail oriented
• Ability to supervise and work collaboratively with staff/volunteers and cultivate a successful director/ Board relationship
• Familiarity and proficiency with common office suite systems and technology and communication and social media tools and software, including CRM/CMS and accounting software (Quickbooks)
• Excellent references

About the Rye Historical Society

The Rye Historical Society is dedicated to researching, preserving, and celebrating Rye, NY’s unique heritage.   We welcome candidates who bring fresh ideas, diverse experiences, and a passion for expanding the Society’s impact within Rye and the greater Metro New York community.

Located in downtown Rye, New York, our historic Square House Museum offers a dynamic and wide range of engaging experiences, including educational lectures, guided walking tours, school tours and programming, youth initiatives, community workshops, and family activities. All experiences are designed to foster a love of and awareness of our collective history, and to generate sincere pride in the Rye community.  Hands-on leadership while working with a deeply invested Board is a rewarding experience.  

No phone inquiries accepted. Cover letter and resume by email only to [email protected]