Executive Director, Children's Museum & Community Impact

Village of New Lenox; New Lenox (IL); On-site; USD 81,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

KidsWork Children's Museum is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead the organization under the Village of New Lenox. The role drives the mission, oversees operations, finances and staff, and shapes engaging exhibits and programs for children and families.

The executive leader will build partnerships, increase memberships and admissions, and ensure a welcoming visitor experience while guiding the museum toward its next chapter of growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in museum studies, public administration, business or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of management experience; or equivalent combination of training and/or experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Financial proficiency. Ability to understand financial statements, provide meaningful reports and metrics and create the annual budget.
• Experience with oversight of maintaining facilities, equipment and exhibits.
• Experience with marketing including print, media and social networks.

Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership to the museum, ensuring efficient operations and an exceptional visitor experience.
• Responsible for creating partnerships and collaborating with local corporate organizations, foundations, public sector leaders, non‑profits and key supporters to advance the direction of KidsWork Children’s Museum.
• Assist in the development of a clear and strategic vision for the museum.
• Prepare annual budget.
• Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork and continuous improvement by ensuring smooth operational management of administration and program planning and events.
• Develop and oversee innovative and engaging educational programs and exhibits that align with the museum’s goals.
• Responsible for promoting admissions and memberships.
• Maximize profitability of earned revenue sources, including admissions, memberships, classes, field trips and special events.

Skills

Communication

Financial acumen

Facilities/Exhibits oversight

Educational programs development

Marketing & outreach

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in museum studies, public administration, business or related field

Job description

KidsWork Children's Museum is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead the organization under the Village of New Lenox. The role drives the mission, oversees operations, finances and staff, and shapes engaging exhibits and programs for children and families.

The executive leader will build partnerships, increase memberships and admissions, and ensure a welcoming visitor experience while guiding the museum toward its next chapter of growth.