Executive Director - Michilimackinac Historical Society

Posted on 5/26/25

Full-Time | Exempt Position

Position Summary:

The Michilimackinac Historical Society (MHS) seeks a dynamic and strategic Executive Director to lead the organization during an exciting period of growth and development. The Executive Director will provide overall leadership for MHS operations, oversee the Michigan Made Store, oversee curated historical items, and most importantly, lead fundraising efforts to establish and open the future Straits Cultural Center.

This is a full-time, salaried position reporting to the Board of Directors. The ideal candidate is a skilled nonprofit leader with a strong background in fundraising, organizational management, and community engagement.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising & Capital Development – 50%

• Develop and lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure capital and operational funding for the future Straits Cultural Center.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with individual donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, and government agencies.
• Lead capital campaign planning and implementation.
• Prepare compelling grant proposals and reports.
• Represent MHS at community events, donor meetings, and speaking engagements to promote support and visibility.

2. Organizational Leadership & Administration – 20%

• Provide strategic leadership and vision in partnership with the Board of Directors.
• Manage daily operations of the Society, including budgeting, staffing, and compliance.
• Develop and implement short- and long-term plans that align with MHS’s mission and vision.
• Supervise and support staff and volunteers.

3. Retail Oversight: Michigan Made Store –5%

• Oversee management and marketing of the Michigan Made Store, ensuring profitability and alignment with MHS’s mission.
• Support inventory planning, vendor relationships, merchandising, and customer engagement strategies.
• Supervise store staff or provide hands-on management as needed.

4. Stewardship of Collections & Cultural Center Planning – 10%

• Oversee curated items and archives intended for future display in the Straits Cultural Center.
• Ensure proper storage, documentation, and preservation of historical materials.
• Collaborate with historians, curators, and exhibit designers during Straits Cultural Center planning.

5. Marketing, Community Engagement & Public Relations – 15%

• Act as the public face of MHS, strengthening partnerships with local and regional organizations, tourism entities, and the general public.
• Promote awareness of the organization’s mission, programs, and goals through media, outreach events, and social media.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in nonprofit management, history, museum studies, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit or cultural organization.
• Proven success in fundraising and capital campaigns.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing staff and volunteers.
• Knowledge of museum standards and retail management is a plus.
• Passion for local history and commitment to cultural preservation.

Compensation:

• Range is $45,000 to $55,000.
• Benefits package includes paid time off.

Please send resume and cover letter by June 23, 2025 to:  MHS ED Search Committee/PO Box 735/St. Ignace MI  49781.  Visit www.michmackhs.org for more information about our organization.

                                                                                    Michilimackinac Historical Society 5/21/25