Deputy Executive Director of Collections and Education

REPORTS TO: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Coastal Georgia Historical Society, an AAM-accredited organization, is seeking a highly qualified individual to fill the position of Deputy Executive Director of Collections and Education. This position will work with the Executive Director to define and achieve the Society’s strategic goals as the premier historical research and education institution in southern Coastal Georgia.

The position has two areas of responsibility: (1) managing all activities to preserve and enhance the Society’s collections, including preservation of the historic structures, and (2) directing the development of public programming, as well as the presentation and interpretation of Coastal Georgia history at the Society’s two museums – the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum (1872) and the World War II Home Front Museum (1936). This position will manage the development of an energetic array of educational programs for adults and children that expands awareness of Coastal Georgia’s dynamic history. The position will also be responsible for the care and growth of the collections according to best practices. The successful candidate will serve as an ambassador for the organization and provide leadership and direction to collections and education staff and volunteers, as well as work cooperatively with the board of directors, members, and partner organizations.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Collections and Historic Preservation Management

• Direct the Society's collections management activities, adhering to professionally recognized standards.
• Oversee development, research, and planning of exhibitions.
• Is responsible for acquisition, preservation, care, and maintenance of collections, including artifacts, photographs, documentary records, and other materials, such as archaeological collections.
• Supervise database development and implement collections managements system.
• Is responsible for executing Preservation Maintenance Plans for the historic structures, including development and oversight of preservation projects.
• Work with preservation experts and the Coast Guard Auxiliary to ensure that the St. Simons Lighthouse, an Active Aid to Navigation, is properly maintained.

Interpretation and Educational Programming

• Implement and oversee an interpretive plan for both museums that includes development of new exhibits and other vehicles for sharing the stories of Coastal Georgia history.
• Lead the Public Programming Committee to develop engaging programs, such as lectures and field trips, for both Society members and wider audiences.
• Supervise the Education Director in developing successful programs/resources, both onsite, in the classroom and virtual, for school children and for families.
• Assist with Society publications, including the quarterly newsletter and social media, and provide a framework for scholarly research and other scholarly activities within the Society 's stated mission.
• Promote interest in Coastal Georgia history by making presentations to diverse audiences and working with public relations staff.
• Ensure that excellence and accuracy are maintained across all forms of interpretation, programming, and media.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR POSITION:

• Master of Arts degree in history or museum studies; 8-10 years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of museum best practices; meticulous, highly organized, and conscientious.
• Knowledge of Coastal Georgia history and culture, with desire to expand this knowledge.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; must be comfortable with public speaking.
• Knowledge of exhibit design.
• Ability to assume a leadership role, work independently and take initiative.
• Administrative and management background which includes giving assignments and/or directions when necessary.
• Work well with a multitude of people (staff, volunteers, Society members, museum visitors)