Manager of Communications and Development – Spurlock Museum

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Spurlock Museum seeks a colleague with experience in communications and development work. We value a strong commitment to ethical practices in cultural heritage management, creative thinking, and enthusiasm for collaborative work. The successful candidate will enjoy working in an environment that promotes innovation and experimentation and be dedicated to making the Spurlock Museum a welcoming and inviting space for our community. The Spurlock Museum team is a diverse and talented group of museum professionals that promote transparency, thoughtfully dismantle traditional gate-keeping museum practices, prioritize reparative practices, and center diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in our work.

The Manager of Communications and Development enhances the public image of the Spurlock Museum through compelling storytelling, cultivating support, and building relationships with stakeholders, donors, foundations, and granting agencies. They collaborate with colleagues at the Spurlock Museum, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS), and the University of Illinois Foundation.

Duties and Responsibilities

Content Creation, Writing, Editing

• In consultation with administration and other staff, develop compelling stories and research, create, and edit content for print and online publication. Create content that will engage diverse stakeholders.
• Research, compose, edit, and publish announcements, press releases, and other materials through a variety of outlets. Submit program and event information to online and community calendars.
• Lead the development of content, planning, and themes for the Museum’s annual magazine and other publications. Manage and edit content provided from other staff and community members.
• In consultation with other staff, manage the Museum’s social media presence on a variety of platforms, including content creation, scheduling, and publishing. Manage student workers to assist with social media campaigns.
• Create project budgets and organize cost estimates for projects including newsletter, brochures, and promotional materials for review by director and business manager.
• Work with specialists, including printers and marketing and branding professionals, to develop materials that meet the Museum’s marketing and publishing needs.
• Supervise student workers and volunteers. Hire, train, assign/review work, conduct performance evaluations, address work issues, approve time, set work schedules, and set goals for student workers and volunteers assisting with the creation of content and publications.
• As part of a team, develop and maintain organized records and materials for communication activities including articles, text, photographs and images, graphics, and other materials.
• Manage the production of the Museum’s electronic newsletters.
• Ensure compliance with University of Illinois communication policies and procedures, and coordinate with College of LAS and other University communication professionals.

Advancement, Media Relations, and Fundraising Events

• Manage news and event publicity, inquiries, and requests.
• Coordinate advancement efforts, including developing strategies and providing necessary information to the annual fund team, updating donor files in the University of Illinois Foundation’s donor database, and coordinating stewardship of donors with the Museum’s Major Gifts Officer.
• Manage donor correspondence in a timely manner in collaboration with the College’s Advancement Office.
• Develop and maintain a system for tracking current and former student workers and volunteers for communication purposes.
• Assist with researching, writing, and proofreading grant proposals.
• Assist with researching opportunities for corporate and foundation support. Assist with the development of presentations and proposals to these sources.
• Develop fundraising events, initiatives, and programs in partnership with other Spurlock Museum staff. Serve as project manager for these efforts. Some evening and weekend work required.

Research and Planning

• Conduct marketing research, synthesize data, and create reports. Track statistics and analytics for website, social media, and other communication efforts.
• Develop general and specific marketing plans and oversee their implementation.
• Research and develop plans and initiatives to attract and retain grassroots support. Work with the Major Gifts Officer to develop a pipeline to increased levels of giving.

Participate in Museum-wide initiatives and other professional activities that contribute to the missions of the Museum and the University of Illinois

• Attend staff meetings and actively participate in planning and evaluation of the Museum.
• Actively participate in creating a work environment that is supportive, respectful, welcoming, and collaborative.
• Attend Museum events and assist in promoting the Museum on campus and in the community.
• Actively participate in creating and reviewing Museum policies and procedures.
• May serve on community or campus committees, working groups, or participate in other advisory groups.
• Remain active in appropriate professional groups and develop conference or informational presentations when appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, advertising, communications, or a related field
•  Three years of professional work experience in communications, promotions, public relations, advertising, or event planning.
• Supervisory experience
• Demonstrated experience with writing, editing, and/or developing content for social media.
• Donor relation experience

Preferred Qualifications

• 2 years of successful grant writing experience
• 2 years of experience in writing and editing
• 2 years of experience working in donor relations
• 1 year of supervisory experience
• 1 year of event planning experience
• 1 year of experience developing and managing social media content
• Experience working in non-profits, higher education, or museums

Successful candidates will have:

• Ability to build rapport and establish effective working relationships with co-workers and stakeholders
• Demonstrated commitment to relationship building that prioritizes diversity, equity, access, and inclusion
• Effective communication skills
• Demonstrated effective organizational skills
• Excellent project and time management skills
• Working knowledge of technology such as computer applications, video, and audio applications for creating online content and programs and website and social media content
• Ability to work collaboratively
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, shift priorities, and meet deadlines
• Energy and enthusiasm for expressing the value of diverse cultures, fostering empathy, and improving organizations in the areas of access and representation
• Ability to take initiative and work independently

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5007 – Publicity-Promotions Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the deadline date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000-65,000.  Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of candidate experience and qualifications, internal salary equity, and budget constraints. After an initial probationary period, this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule of up to 16 hours per week, dependent upon job performance and when Museum’s programs and schedule allow. Sponsorship for Work Authorization is not available for this position.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on July 19, 2024. To apply for this position, create a candidate profile at https://jobs.illinois.edu. Use the Apply Now button on the posting and upload your cover letter outlining how your experience and qualifications align with this position and the mission of the Museum, resume (months and years of employment must be included), and names/contact information for three professional references. Please remember to include specific information on how you meet the qualifications of the position in your application materials, including all relevant experiences. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact lascollegehiring@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

For assistance with resume creation and mock interviews, please follow this link for University of Illinois Human Resources workshops: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/1595?c=illinois

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1024985
Job Category: Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

Are you interested in shaping the future of museum practice and fostering connections between young adults and the arts? Do you have experience in teaching, developing programming, and creating engaging educational experiences? If you’re eager to mentor and guide students, serve as an ambassador on the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities campus, and lead a visionary team of undergraduate students, this might be the perfect opportunity for you.

As part of the Public Engagement and Learning team, the Student Engagement and Learning Specialist will play a crucial role in designing and implementing innovative strategies to engage the 18-25-year-old campus demographic with the Weisman Art Museum. Responsibilities include creating and facilitating in-gallery arts experiences and managing programs that encourage active participation and connection with our collections and exhibitions. You will work closely with colleagues to anticipate and respond to emerging trends in arts and culture, ensuring our programming remains relevant and impactful. This is a full-time position with all the attendant University of Minnesota employee benefits.

***Please submit pdfs of your resume and a cover letter through the University of Minnesota’s HR portal. Job ID: 362180

Key Roles and Responsibilities:
Programming and Engagement (60%):

●      Develops strategies that engage the 18-25 age demographic on campus; facilitates dialogue and implements pedagogical approaches for art museum learning;

●      Manages all aspects of co-curricular WAM Collective campus life program including hiring and  performance management of 6+ undergraduate students; develops and implements year-long syllabus and UMN campus focused programming calendar; Manages student assistant responsible for Student Service Fee applications and budget monitoring.

●      Supports Department Director in the research and development of Public Programs and community-focused initiatives; Collaborates on the delivery of the Open Studio program and in-gallery learning initiatives;

●      Implements strategies for accessibility;

●      Develops, staffs, and manages a year-long tabling strategy for on-campus promotion and engagement; Amplifies WAM resources including the art rental collection, internships, art study, Open Studio, and student tours through tabling and community outreach;

●      Co-creates training modules and delivers training for internal student staff;

●      Maintains relationships with campus units; schedules meetings and e-invitations targeted at faculty and units on campus.

●      Develops strategies for community input into museum planning and programming; supports facilitation of focus groups;

●      Tracks program performance metrics and audience demographics; Participates in debriefing, preparing and delivering reports; manages data for COVES and Qualtrics evaluations, grant reporting.

Administrative Support (35%):

●      Works with the PEL department to work through multi-year plans under the strategic plan for the museum and University.

●      Provides administrative support for PEL department including preparing and collecting content for copy, maintaining calendars, scheduling, and communicating cross-departmentally;

●      Prepares contracts and supporting documentation for speakers, presenters, and artists.

●      Makes travel arrangements and prepares itineraries for contracted partners;

●      Assists in the creation of interpretive materials and artist engagement opportunities with PEL colleagues; supports programmatic elements of Open Studio including ordering supplies, maintaining Open Studio gallery space, and developing digital and print materials;

●      Other duties as assigned;

Professional Development (5%):

●      The Student Engagement and Learning Specialist is expected to be actively participating in the museum field, developing and maintaining relationships with other museum professionals, and participating in professional activities,

●      Attends and presents at national conferences and/or other professional development opportunities to stay abreast of trends in the field;

Essential Qualifications:

●      BA / BS in related field

●      Knowledge of object-based teaching and learning.

●      Demonstrated interest in museology, the arts; nonprofit management, art history, programming, production, object-based teaching, visual literacy, or related fields;

●      Strong research, writing, speaking, finance, and communication skills.

●      Demonstrated commitment to student leadership development, community engagement, and intercultural competency;

●      Strong communication and presentation skills;

●      Ability to multitask and work on a range of projects and see them through to completion;

●      Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a wide range of constituencies (student, staff, faculty) in a diverse community;

●      Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and record-keeping skills;

●      Ability to collaborate with others and complete independent remote work;

●      Familiarity with Mac computers, Excel spreadsheets, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Canvas, and Canva platforms; basic knowledge of digital design.

●      Ability to work some nights and weekends, including monthly Wednesday night student-focused programs.

●      Multilingual skills a plus.

Preferred Experience:

●      Master’s Degree

●      Three years of work experience in a museum setting, at least one of which is in an educational role.

●      One year of teaching experience in a classroom or museum setting.

●      Record of college or adult-level teaching.

Working Conditions and Atmosphere:

This is a full-time, hybrid position with a flexible schedule as required for implementation of responsibilities and related museum activities. Working hours may include some evenings and weekends. General mobility throughout museum properties required.

Benefits

●      The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

○      Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off

○      Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship

○      Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans

○      Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts

○      University HSA contributions

○      Disability and employer-paid life insurance

○      Employee wellbeing program

○      Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution

○      Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity

○      Financial counseling services

○      Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

The Missouri Historical Society in St. Louis, MO seeks an Objects Conservator to assess objects in the MHS and Soldiers Memorial and Military Museum collections and perform treatment on objects. This position coordinates overall conservation activities with management across the organization, by establishing priorities for assessment, treatment, and preservation. The Objects Conservator serves on collections committees and takes the lead in developing preservation plans such the Long-Range Conservation Plan. The Objects Conservator will receive a paid membership to the American Institute for Conservation (AIC).

Please click this link https://mohistory.aaimtrack.com/jobs/1076654 for more details and to apply.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

About us:

The McHenry County Historical is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1963. The museum campus, opened in 1976, includes offices, a museum, a library, storage, and a museum store housed in an 1870 school building with three later additions. A pioneer-era log cabin, an 1895 one-room school, and two adjoining 20th-century residential properties were acquired for future growth. The society also owns three off-site buildings–a rural school, a church, and a historic town hall.

Job Summary:

The McHenry County Historical Society seeks a full-time, experienced, dynamic, articulate museum executive to lead our efforts to engage and educate current and future generations by preserving and sharing McHenry County history. The Executive Director will oversee an excellent team of 3 full-time and 2 part-time employees with general guidance from the Executive Committee. This individual will manage the museum, research library, and all Historical Society properties. The position requires an individual who is committed to maintaining a positive and collaborative environment.

Qualifications and Requirements:

● Bachelor’s degree in history, museum studies, or a related field

● Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible museum and/or nonprofit management experience

● Ability to present ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

● Dynamic leadership skills with the ability to maintain a strong team

● Dedication to creating programs that engage and involve the public

● Strong passion for history and dedication to preserving local heritage

● Up-to-date computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Experience using membership database software, PastPerfect, and content management systems is a plus

● Experience with financial management

● Ability to work evenings and weekends, as needed.

Job Description:

The Executive Director is responsible for carrying out the Society’s mission and vision in terms of operating its facilities and programs. The Executive Director will also develop and promote a favorable impression of the McHenry County Historical Society and Museum in the community. This individual works independently with general guidance from the Executive Committee.

Executive Director Responsibilities

Leadership:

● Builds alignment across the organization through collaboration and communication

● Fosters a positive environment where members, prospective members, donors, staff, volunteers, and visitors feel welcomed, respected, encouraged, and engaged

● Provides guidance and strategic direction

Board

● Collaborates with the Board of Directors (and its committees) to develop and implement policies and procedures that support the Society’s mission and goals and to ensure that policies are relevant and reviewed on a scheduled basis

● Collaborates with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction goals and to monitor progress

● Serves as liaison between the Board and staff

● Communicates effectively and provides the Board with timely information regarding issues, challenges, accomplishments, and successes

Staff

● Oversees efficient and effective day-to-day operations of the organization, including memberships, volunteer recruitment, training, and appreciation, and facilitates optimal use of Neon CRM software

● Recruits, defines staff roles, provides training, sets goals, and conducts performance reviews to maintain a cohesive, trusted, mission-focused, excellent team.

● Works with staff to maintain a high level of communication and collaboration

Museum and Library Collection

● Oversees the Society’s extensive collection of historic artifacts

● Works with the Exhibits Curator to protect, rotate, display, & educationally interpret the Society’s collection

● Plans for the housing and protection of the museum and library collection for future generations

● Approves all items deaccessioned from the collection

● Works with the Research Librarian to protect, catalog, educationally interpret, and make the library collection reasonably accessible to the membership and general public for research purposes

Finances

● Works with the staff, finance committee, and treasurer to develop and manage an annual budget

● Works with the bookkeeper to pay bills and oversee payroll

● Directs the filing of all required annual reports

● Researches or directs research to secure grant funding, maintains a grant application calendar, ensures timely reporting

Development

In collaboration with the Development Committee:

● Supports varied forms of fundraising and opportunities, including but not limited to donors and event planning

● Stewards relationships with donors, foundations, corporate sponsors and demonstrates that their gifts are used to effectively support the organization’s mission and as earmarked by the donor, if applicable.

Facilities, Infrastructure, and Technology:

● Oversees the Society’s historic properties and works with the building committee to ensure continued monitoring, maintenance, and preservation of the buildings in the Society’s care

● Obtains bids and proposals, coordinates projects, and hires professionals to design improvements and perform repairs; initiates service contracts

● Oversees adequate museum fire and security alarm technology, maintenance, and monitoring

● Oversees Information Technology, including hardware, software, internet, and corresponding contracts. Ensures that proper hardware and software are in place to facilitate customer relations management, fundraising, collaboration, document creation and storage, communication, productivity, and record-keeping

● Manages digital account access, users, and passwords

● Collaborates with Board of Directors and staff to prepare a facilities master plan

Programming

● Plans, develops and promotes an annual schedule of programs, exhibits, and events that align with the museum’s mission and which cultivate new visitors, members, and volunteers

● Manages logistics-related programs and events

● Develop metrics and reports on outcomes from each event to ensure continuing improvements

● Ensures museum staffing during visitor hours

External Communications:

● Serves as the primary advocate and spokesperson for MCHS while encouraging and developing museum ambassadors throughout the county.

● Oversees outbound media, including press releases, the museum’s Tracer
Magazine, Society’s Page, and Museum Newsletter, in collaboration with the staff and volunteer editors.

● Markets the Society’s programs and services to promote the organization in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner, to reach a wide audience.

● Provides oversight of the Society’s website and social media, including the posting of
upcoming events and up-to-date society information and postings which encourage engagement

Collaborates with other organizations and agencies to promote local history and preservation.

Salary and Benefits: The base salary for the Executive Director position ranges from $65,000 to $75,000, commensurate with experience. The McHenry County Historical Society offers a competitive benefits package. For benefit details, please contact President@mchenrycountyhistory.org.