Executive Director & Site Manager of Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem, World Heritage Si[...]

Hyatt-Fennell; Bethlehem (Northampton County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Executive Director & Site Manager to oversee the Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem World Heritage Site. This pivotal role involves driving tourism and promoting the historical significance of the site while managing daily operations and engaging with the community. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. and extensive experience in tourism development, with a focus on cultural heritage. You will collaborate with diverse stakeholders, develop strategic plans, and teach courses related to tourism. Join this dynamic team and make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the Lehigh Valley.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required with extensive experience in tourism development.
• Proven track record in strategic planning and operational management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations and strategic direction of the World Heritage site.
• Develop partnerships and coordinate with tourism agencies.

Skills

Strategic Planning

Operational Management

Fundraising

Community Engagement

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Ph.D. in Business Administration

Ph.D. in Tourism

Ph.D. in related field

Job description

Executive Director & Site Manager of Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem, World Heritage Site & Professor of Practice

Moravian University and Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem World Heritage Site seek an Executive Director & Site Manager. The Executive Director & Site Manager will oversee the operations and strategic direction of the Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem World Heritage Site. This role is pivotal in driving tourism dollars into Bethlehem and the surrounding Lehigh Valley area while promoting the historical and cultural significance of the Moravian settlements. The Executive Director & Site Manager will have faculty rank at Moravian University and may teach one or two courses annually. Faculty responsibilities will be outlined in a separate Statement of Expectations (SoE) upon hire.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Executive Director and Site Manager Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance the visibility and tourism appeal of the Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem World Heritage site.
• Collaborate with local, national, and international tourism agencies to promote the site.
• Develop partnerships and coordination with other Transnational World Heritage sites (Christiansfeld, Herrnhut, Gracehill).
• Foster relationships among other World Heritage sites both nationally and internationally to exchange knowledge and resources.
• Acquire knowledge of and maintain a sensitivity to the Moravian Church as a living, practicing, religious denomination.
• Develop a relationship with each of the strategic partners and foster a spirit of collegiality among them.

Operational Management:

• Oversee daily operations of the World Heritage site, ensuring effective management and maintenance of the historical properties.
• Coordinate with the Governance Board and other stakeholders to align operational activities with strategic goals.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with the community and stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes and foster a positive and inclusive environment.

Tourism Development:

• Partner with Discover Lehigh Valley and the appropriate staff at each of the strategic partners and the Director of Communications and Marketing for Seminary and World Heritage in the University Marketing department to oversee marketing strategies aimed at attracting tourists to the Lehigh Valley area.
• Develop tourism packages and promotional materials in collaboration with local businesses and tourism related institutions.
• Monitor and analyze tourism trends to adjust strategies and maximize economic impact.

Fundraising and Development:

• Work with appropriate staff at each of the strategic partners and Moravian University’s Office of Development for fundraising efforts to support the operations and programs of the World Heritage site.
• Work with appropriate staff at each of the strategic partners and Moravian University’s Grants Office to identify and apply for grants and other funding opportunities.
• Cultivate relationships with donors and stakeholders to secure financial support as directed by the VP of Development.

Community Engagement:

• Engage with local communities to foster a sense of ownership and stewardship over the World Heritage site.
• Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and educational programs.
• Promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit the local community and preserve the site’s heritage.

Teaching Responsibilities:

• Teach one or two courses on tourism or cultural heritage per year.
• Develop course materials and curricula that integrate the historical and cultural significance of the Moravian settlements.
• Mentor students and provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences related to heritage tourism.
• Participate in professional organizations and societies.
• Contribute to the institution’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.
• Actively participate in service to the University through academic advising, committee membership, and/or mentorship of student clubs and organizations.

QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. in Business Administration, Tourism, or a related field is required, along with extensive experience in tourism development, preferably with a focus on cultural or heritage tourism. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in strategic planning, operational management, and fundraising, demonstrating strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills. Proficiency in project management and stakeholder engagement, coupled with a passion for historical preservation and cultural heritage, is also required. The successful candidate must be able to work collaboratively with diverse groups and build strong partnerships.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should be submitted via email to Cheryl Hyatt or Jann Weitzel at [e-mail]. Applications include a letter of interest, a current résumé/cv, and contact information for five professional references, submitted in separate documents. The position will remain open until filled. All applications and nominations will be considered highly confidential.

Moravian University’s mission is to prepare individuals for reflective lives and leadership in a world of change. In support of this mission, we are dedicated to fostering an educational and professional environment that is enriched by individuals of varied backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

As part of Moravian University’s institutional values, all employees contribute to upholding our Community Standards and Expectations, which emphasize respectful engagement, accountability, inclusion, and lifelong learning.

Moravian University is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination, harassment or retaliation against any applicant for employment or admission on the basis of a characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.