Chief Operating & Strategy Leader

National Museum of Wildlife Art; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 180,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental insurance

Vacation time

403(b) retirement plan

Job summary

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, OH, seeks a visionary President & COO to lead strategic direction and operations during a period of transformation. You will align mission, brand, partnerships, and revenue models to strengthen impact.

The role requires extensive senior leadership, fundraising, and operational excellence to ensure a safe, welcoming visitor experience while expanding national reach and financial stability.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 15 years of related experience, including at least 7 years in senior leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success in senior leadership, ideally within a museum or cultural organization.
• Strong record of community engagement, partnership building, and advancing contributed and/or earned revenue strategies.
• Knowledge of museum management and visitor-centered operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead an inclusive strategic planning process and set clear priorities with measurable outcomes.
• Provide leadership for fundraising, governance, and community ambassador duties for the Freedom Center and its activities.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, programs, facilities, and educational activities to ensure a safe, high-quality visitor experience.
• Partner with the CMC CFO on budget preparation, monitoring, and cash management.
• Develop and execute a digital strategy to expand national reach and audience engagement.

Skills

Senior leadership

Community engagement

Partnership building

Fundraising experience

Revenue strategy

Education

Master's degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Job description

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, OH, seeks a visionary President & COO to lead strategic direction and operations during a period of transformation. You will align mission, brand, partnerships, and revenue models to strengthen impact.

The role requires extensive senior leadership, fundraising, and operational excellence to ensure a safe, welcoming visitor experience while expanding national reach and financial stability.