Job Listing: Museum and Archives Director

Name of Organization – Beth Ahabah Museum & Archives, Richmond, VA

Job Title – Museum and Archives Director

Type – Part-time

Apply –  Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and names and contact information for 3 references.  Submit the information required to Lisa Kaplan at lisakaps4@gmail.com.

Summary –  The Museum and Archives Director is responsible for overseeing the collection, and the preservation and exhibition of materials related to Jewish history and culture, with a particular emphasis on the Jewish community of Richmond, Virginia.  The Director supervises two part- time staff members, is responsible for the financial management of the Museum and Archives and ensures that the rich history and culture of Jewish life in the region is documented, interpreted, preserved, and shared with the congregation and the public.  The Director reports to the Trustees of Beth Ahabah Museum and Archives.

Responsibilities – With support from other BAMA staff, the Director’s Key responsibilities include:

• Collection Management: Oversee the acquisition, cataloging, access to, display, and preservation of artifacts, documents, photographs, and other materials related to Jewish history and culture.
• Exhibitions: Develop, plan, and implement engaging and educational exhibitions that highlight the Jewish experience in Richmond, Virginia, and items in the collection.
• Digitization: Scanning and digitization of the collection’s documents and ensuring their accessibility for research and viewing.
• Archival Research: Conduct and facilitate research to support the museum’s collections, exhibitions, and educational programs.
• Community Engagement:  Build relationships with the local Jewish community and collaborate with other cultural and historical organizations to enhance the museum’s profile and outreach.
• Educational Programs:  Design and implement educational programs and events that promote the museum’s mission and engage diverse audiences; schedule and plan Sunday morning classes to visit the museum.
• Grant Writing and Fundraising:  Identify and pursue grant opportunities and other fundraising sources to support operations and special projects.  Manage relations with and cultivate donors.
• Volunteer Management:  Recruit, train, supervise, and inspire volunteers such as docents, researchers, and archivists to assist with various museum functions and events.  Work effectively with BAMA Trustees and coordinate and attend all board and executive committee meetings.
• Administration:  In partnership with BAMA Trustees, develop and manage the museum’s budget, maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations and policies of the Congregation.  Support the work and responsibilities of the BAMA Board of Trustees, ensuring effective oversight of the Trusts, and the Board Committees.  Provide management and support to BAMA employees.  Implement all policies adopted by the BAMA Trustees and all relevant policies and procedures of Congregation Beth Ahabah.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Museum Studies, History, Archival Science, Judaic Studies or related field of study, preferred
• Managerial experience in the not-for-profit sector, preferred
• Essential skills needed for this position include strong organizational and project management skills, strategic planning and relationship building experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity or proficiency in archival software and other relevant technology such as Past Perfect a plus.
• Ability to work independently and lead staff to work towards shared goals
• Passion for preserving and interpreting Jewish history and culture

Hours and Compensation

• This is a part-time position requiring 25 hours per week.  Museum hours of operation are 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Sunday through Thursday.  Individual work hours are flexible and subject to change.