Chicago Cultural Alliance (CCA) | Director of Programs

Title: Director of Programs

Salary: $70,000/yr + benefits

Type: Full-time, primarily remote (in-person attendance required for all events)

Who We Are

The Chicago Cultural Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to connect, promote, and support centers of cultural heritage for a more inclusive Chicago. We unite close to 50 Chicago-area cultural heritage museums, centers, and historical societies that span 23 neighborhoods and 11 suburbs in the Chicago area and represent over 40 different cultures from around the world.

Site: https://www.chicagoculturalalliance.org/ 

We are searching for someone to join our small team of passionate cultural advocates and administrative professionals. The Director of Programs would join three full-time staff members, work with our all-volunteer board of directors, and a wide network of volunteers. We pride ourselves on a supportive, flexible work environment advocating for diverse communities and voices.

Schedule

The CCA team works remotely with one in-office day per week required. The exception will be for the Director of Programs who will need to be on-site for in-person programs.

Position Summary:

The Director of Programs is a senior leader responsible for the strategy, planning, and execution of the Chicago Cultural Alliance’s programs and member-facing initiatives. This role blends strategic leadership with hands-on execution, ensuring programs are mission-aligned, well-managed, and impactful.

Working closely with the Executive Director and a small team, the Director of Programs will lead the planning and execution of signature events as well as smaller community events, programs and webinars, serving as a visible representative of the organization at events. The Director will use data and program insights to inform decision-making, support continuous improvement, and contribute to updates for leadership. This position requires coordination with CCA staff, volunteers, and partners in a highly collaborative environment.

Requirements

• 5-7+ years of experience in program management, cultural programming, nonprofit leadership, or a related field.
• Candidates must live in the Chicagoland area.
• Demonstrated ability to lead both strategy and execution in a small or resource-constrained environment.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to reliably travel throughout the Chicagoland area to support programs, events, and partner engagement.
• Will be required to work on a computer, use Google Workspace apps (Google Drive / Docs / Sheets / Slides), Asana, CRM systems (Neon), Zoom, email, and messaging software.
• All team members of the CCA must follow our organizational mission to support, promote, and advocate for the centers of cultural heritage that we unite. This requires cultural sensitivity, an interest in other cultures, advocacy, and related topics. We strongly recommend that applicants review the Chicago Cultural Alliance mission statement before applying.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a small, highly collaborative team.
• Must have regular and reliable access to the Internet.
• Excellent communication skills, including public speaking and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to track, analyze, and use program data to inform decisions and improve outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Planning

• Lead the development of an annual program plan in partnership with the Executive Director, including priorities, calendar, and budgets.
• Define program goals, success metrics, and key milestones across all initiatives.
• Ensure all programs align with CCA’s mission and deliver value to members and partners.

Program Execution & Operations

• Oversee end-to-end execution of programs and events, from planning through post-event evaluation.
• Develop and manage timelines, logistics, and resource needs across multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Partner with the Operations Manager to ensure strong project management, documentation, and smooth event execution.
• Take a hands-on role in program delivery as needed, including coordination with venues, speakers, and partners.

Team & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Provide day-to-day leadership for program-related work across a small team, contractors, and volunteers.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing on program promotion, audience development, and communications strategy.
• Work with the Executive Director and Programs Committee on major initiatives and flagship events.
• Identify when additional support is needed and coordinate volunteers or external partners accordingly.

Membership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Strengthen relationships with members, partners, and key external stakeholders.
• Contribute to strategies that grow membership, partnerships, and community engagement.
• Partner with staff to ensure volunteers are well-integrated into program delivery.

Data, Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Establish clear methods for tracking program participation, outcomes, and impact.
• Lead post-event evaluations and team debriefs to inform continuous improvement.
• Ensure key program information and insights are documented and accessible for future use.

Special Projects & Organizational Support

• Support program-related grant narratives as needed.
• Lead recurring programs such as monthly Town Halls, Archives Crawl, annual meeting of membership, Activating Heritage conference, and other signature offerings.
• Play a leadership role in major events, coordinating across staff, board, and partners.

Benefits

• Medical coverage (50% employer paid)
• 7 paid holidays + paid winter break (Dec. 24th through January 1st)
• 16 days paid time off (accrued)
• Various professional development opportunities covered by employer (ex. Conference attendance, workshops, online workshops or courses)
• Satisfying work advocating for Chicago’s cultural treasures
• Regularly engaging with colleagues in Chicago’s arts and cultural communities

How to Apply

If interested, please send a cover letter and a CV/résumé addressed to Dr. Mónica Félix, Executive Director (careers@chicagoculturalalliance.org) with “CCA Director of Programs” as the subject. We ask that cover letters do not exceed 2 pages in length using size 12 font. Only complete applications that include both a cover letter and resume/CV will be considered. 

Hiring Timeline

Step 1: Select applicants will be invited to schedule a 45-minute Zoom interview.

Step 3: Applicants advancing to the next stage will be invited to an in-person interview with the hiring committee.

Step 3: Interviewers will contact applicant references, then make a job offer.

We will accept applications until the position is filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Chicago Cultural Alliance provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

St. Louis Mercantile Library Endowed Curator of Fine Art and Endowed Research Professor
St. Louis Mercantile Library at the University of Missouri – St. Louis

The St. Louis Mercantile Library, a two-centuries old research library and art center with deep collections in the humanities, at the University of Missouri – St. Louis is seeking an experienced, enthusiastic, curatorial professional with a passion for regional art for the role of Curator of Fine Art and Research Professor. The Mercantile Library is the only institution in the state whose primary art collecting mission is dedicated to Missouri art, while also holding extensive collections in regional and American paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, artists’ archives, and artifacts.

This full-time, benefit-eligible position reports to the Mercantile Library’s Executive Director and is responsible for building, preserving, exhibiting and interpreting the Mercantile Library’s historic fine art collection. The curator is part of a dynamic team of professionals and exercises extensive advisory board contact and supervisory duties.  The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, be a systematic, meticulous, patient, self-starter who works well under pressure, manages time efficiently, analyzes and solves problems independently and if necessary, collaboratively, and can be flexible and embrace changes within this position due to departmental priorities. This is a Non-Tenure Track Faculty position with an annual salary range of $65,000 – $75,000.

Specific duties of the position include:

• Advise on additions to the Fine Art collection through solicited donation and suggested purchase in accordance with the Collections Development Plan.
• Oversee the accessioning, storage, conservation, shipping, insurance and security of the Fine Art Collections.
• Research, design and oversee installation of exhibitions of the art collection to include artwork selection, writing scholarly and interpretive text, and collaborating on publicity, opening receptions, and programming.
• Engage in collections-based scholarship to be published in exhibition catalogues or scholarly journals as well as in lectures, symposia, and conference presentations.
• Develop and maintain professional affiliations with curatorial colleagues at other institutions and attend and present at conferences and professional events on behalf of the Mercantile Library.
• Cultivate long-term relationships with donors, collectors, scholars, established and emerging local artists, and art dealers to attract and secure works of art, collections and acquisition funds.
• Provide exhibition support to the director and other curators as needed.
• Aid library staff, visiting scholars and the public with collection-related questions; answer research requests and correspondence related to the collections.
• Supervise the Assistant Curator and Graduate Research Assistants.
• Oversee and take part in the volunteer docent training program. Oversee and assist in training student workers and art-collection volunteers.
• Advise the Assistant Curator for Fine Art Collections in their capacity as Coordinator of University Exhibits and Collections in areas of art handling, conservation, and outgoing loan requests from off-campus entities.
• Oversee the digitization and Rights/Reproductions request for Fine Art Collection materials, with the support of the Assistant Curator.
• Prepare and present off-site outreach lectures to promote the Library.
• Effectively communicate with team members and other members of the university community, while contributing to and sustaining a positive and supportive workplace.
• Adhere to the Collected Rules and Regulations of the University of Missouri System.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in art history with an emphasis in 19th – 20th century American Art from an accredited college or university with broad knowledge of American painting, sculpture, prints, and drawings.
• Minimum 6 years’ curatorial experience working with art collections in a museum or university art gallery, showing increasing levels of responsibility and demonstrated proficiency in areas of art historical scholarship, connoisseurship, acquisitions, exhibition design and execution, staff supervision, and donor relations.
• Exemplary writing skills, compelling public speaking presence, and excellent oral communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to build and sustain effective and productive interpersonal relationships with library staff, faculty, students, administrators, board members, and members of the public.
• Evidence of analytical, project, and time management skills and demonstrated ability to set priorities, meet deadlines and complete tasks and projects on time and within budget in accordance with task or project parameters.
• Demonstrated proficiency with personal computers and software, and office applications including the Microsoft Office suite, especially Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams/ SharePoint, and
• PowerPoint, and other productivity software, and proficiency with museum collection software.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States and pass standard University of Missouri System screenings and background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Midwest regional or Missouri art.
• Familiarity with early American art movements and patronage.
• Experience with docent training and/or tour programs.
• Familiarity with Past Perfect Museum software.
• Experience or familiarity with fine art conservation techniques.
• Experience or familiarity with fine art shipping and/or storage processes.

Salary Range
This is a full-time Librarian III non-tenure track faculty position in the University Libraries with a salary range between $65,000 – $75,000 per year based on experience.

Benefit Eligibility
The University of Missouri – St. Louis offers benefit-eligible employees a wide variety of benefits including health, dental and vision coverage. For more information about our benefits, please visit: https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Applications:
Applications must be submitted via the UMSL Jobs Portal
Priority will be given to candidates who apply by April 24, 2026, however the position will remain open until filled.

Application must include cover letter, CV, college transcript(s), and list of three professional references.
We welcome letters of reference & references will be called.

Brucemore is a cultural service organization that brings people together through creativity and shared experiences. We foster connection, learning, and growth for individuals, artists, and communities, using our historic site as a platform to expand access, inspire creativity, and help people belong to something bigger than themselves.

We are hiring a Development Manager, a position that is designed for someone who is ready to grow into development work, gaining hands on experience while shaping how fundraising is carried out at Brucemore. This role plays a key part in contributing to a development program that is relationship-centered, service oriented, and rooted in meaningful connection to our mission and our community.

This position oversees the strategy and assists in the execution of Brucemore’s annual supporter and preservation fund programs, while contributing to broader fundraising efforts with the CEO.

This role is responsible for multiple aspects of integrated development strategies—from planning through execution and stewardship—while serving as a key project manager and connector across major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and donor experiences.  This position coordinates timelines, tasks, and follow-through for initiatives across the organization, bringing structure, consistency, and momentum to shared work.

This role requires strong coordination, relationship-building, and follow-through, along with curiosity about people and a willingness to approach fundraising in creative, thoughtful, and community-centered ways. It is an ideal role for a motivated individual who is excited to learn, contribute ideas, and grow alongside an evolving organization.

More information on the position here.

OUR MISSION

The Wisconsin Historical Society connects people to the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing stories.

OUR VISION

Enriching and transforming lives through unparalleled access to history.

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

Founded in 1846, the Wisconsin Historical Society is one of the nation’s most respected and dynamic historical organizations. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, the Society is uniquely positioned to serve the public through its mission to connect people to the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing stories.

At the heart of this work is a belief that history matters. A deeper understanding of the past strengthens communities, informs civic life, and supports cultural and economic vitality.  The Society’s values are to Embrace a Spirit of Service, Engage our Expertise, Spark Enthusiasm, Cultivate Inclusion, Exceed Expectations, and Think Big and Grow with Purpose. These values guide a high-performing and collaborative organization that is recognized nationally and internationally for its impact.

Each year, the Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions through an expansive portfolio that includes:

• Museums and Historic Sites: Twelve immersive destinations, including two National Historic Landmarks, along with more than 530 state historical markers
• World-Class Collections: One of the largest North American history collections outside the Library of Congress, spanning archaeology to modern history and nationally significant genealogy resources
• Education and Publishing: Widely used resources for educators, students, and lifelong learners through the Wisconsin Historical Society Press and statewide programming
• Research and Genealogy Services: Extensive archives supporting both casual curiosity and advanced scholarship
• Public History Leadership: Direct support to more than 400 local history organizations across Wisconsin
• State Historic Preservation Office: Stewardship of Wisconsin’s archaeological and built environment, with services supporting property owners, developers, and communities

POSITION SUMMARY

The Wisconsin Historical Society is entering a transformational moment with the opening of the 115,000 square foot Wisconsin History Center in late 2027.

Located on Capitol Square in downtown Madison, the History Center will serve as a flagship destination where people and communities connect across time through shared American experiences.

As the Society’s premier venue, the History Center will feature more than 30,000 square feet of exhibit space, including three permanent galleries, a 7,500 square foot changing gallery, and a 1,000 square foot community gallery. The facility will include classrooms, dynamic public programming spaces, and a top floor and rooftop event venue. The Center is expected to welcome more than 200,000 visitors annually and will serve as the hub for mission delivery across Wisconsin.

The History Center Attractions Director provides senior level leadership across all facets of operations. This includes guest experience, programming, retail and admissions, business operations, and financial performance. The Director plays a critical role in shaping how visitors experience the History Center from the moment they arrive.

This role leads all visitor-facing functions including Guest Services, Admissions, Retail operations, programming and education, and overall facility readiness. The Director is also responsible for managing key operational partnerships including private events, food and beverage, security, and custodial services, ensuring strong performance, compliance, and a high-quality guest experience.

The Director serves as a key member of the Society’s senior leadership team and works closely with executive leaders across programs, collections, learning, creative, marketing, and business services to deliver a cohesive and compelling visitor experience.

As one of the Society’s three major attractions, alongside Circus World and Old World Wisconsin, the Director partners with the Administrator of Museums and Historic Sites to align centralized functions such as ticketing, retail, and sales.  In addition, the Director also serves as a strategic thought partner to the Administrator.

Given the History Center’s location adjacent to the State Capitol, this role also serves as a visible and trusted representative of the organization. The Director will regularly engage with legislators, executive leadership, donors, partners, community stakeholders, and media.

This position reports to the Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer and offers a rare opportunity to lead a flagship cultural destination from its opening and into its next chapter of growth and impact.

SALARY INFORMATION

The salary will be between $45.00 – $59.88 per hour plus excellent benefits.  Pay on appointment for current or former state employees may vary according to the applicable pay provisions found in the Wisconsin State Compensation Plan. This position is in pay schedule 81, range 01. The classification is Historic Site Manager.  A 2-year Career Executive trial period will be required.

Visit this link for a calculator of State of Wisconsin benefits:  https://dpm.wi.gov/Pages/Employees/RewardsCalculator.aspx

JOB DETAILS

A criminal background check will be conducted prior to an offer of employment to determine if the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job.

Interested permanent classified state employees should complete this application process to apply.

WHS does not sponsor work visas.  Any appointment made will be contingent on the applicant being able to prove valid status to work in the United States.

This position will work full-time on site.

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

Please make sure to describe the following qualifications within your resume and/or letter of qualifications in order to be considered for this position.

A minimally qualified candidate will have experience in all of the following:

• Management experience in a public-facing environment such as a museum, attraction, visitor centers, hospitality venue, cultural institution, or similar setting with responsibility for daily operations or visitor services.
• Experience coordinating operational logistics for programs, events, or group visits within a public or visitor-focused setting.
• Experience supporting revenue-generating activities such as admissions, retail, programming, or events, including familiarity with operational financial controls such as cash handling or POS systems.
• Experience supervising staff in cross-functional teams (e.g. create work plans for staff, hire and train staff, evaluate staff performance, establish daily goals and tasks, oversee employment functions)
• Experience representing an organization with external stakeholders such as community partners, tourism organizations, donors, elected officials, or media in a public-facing leadership role.

In addition to meeting minimum qualifications, a well-qualified candidate will have demonstrated experience in at least three of the following areas:

• Demonstrated accountability to generate earned revenue through admissions, retail, events, or programs, including monitoring performance and identifying strategies to increase revenue or operational efficiency.
• Management of retail or commercial visitor services, including merchandising, inventory controls, POS systems, and strategies to improve per-capita spending or retail performance.
• Experience managing vendors or contracted services (such as food service, event services, or operational service providers), including performance standards, compliance, and service quality expectations.
• Management of complex visitor operations involving high-volume attendance, large group visits (such as school groups), or major public events requiring coordination across staff, vendors, and operational teams.
• Demonstrated ability to implement operational systems, standard operating procedures, or service frameworks that improve consistency, guest satisfaction, or operational performance.
• Demonstrated experience working with development or advancement teams to cultivate donor and sponsor relationships, support fundraising initiatives, and represent the organization in donor-facing settings such as tours, events, presentations, or sponsorship engagements.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, click “Apply for Job” to start the application process.  Then, you will access your existing account or to create a new account if you don’t have an account. Once you are logged in, click “Apply for Job.” Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application.  Applications are due at 11:59PM on May 29, 2026.  

Your letter of qualifications and resume are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. For instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications for your application and what should be included in these materials, click here for resume and letter of qualifications instructions.

Submitted materials will be evaluated and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the hiring process.

WHS is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer seeking a diverse and talented workforce. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities.

Questions may be directed to jan.zadra@wisconsinhistory.org. or (608) 264-6409.

Please see the Frequently Asked Questions for general wisc.jobs user information and technical assistance.

The State of Wisconsin offers a special program for qualified veterans with a 30% or greater service-connected disability.  If you are a qualified veteran, please visit the Veterans Employment page for application instructions to be considered for the Veterans Non-Competitive Appointment program.