Executive Director

The Beaufort Historical Association, Beaufort, NC, currently seeks candidates for the position of Executive Director (ED). The Beaufort Historical Association is a private, non-profit, membership organization with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. The mission of the Association is to research, preserve, and interpret the cultural, architectural and historical heritage of Beaufort and Carteret County and to inform and educate current and future generations of this heritage. The ED also serves as the executive for the Beaufort Historical Foundation, a charitable foundation that oversees donations made for the benefit of the mission of the Association. 

The Association owns and operates the Beaufort Historic site in downtown Beaufort, a two-acre complex of 11 buildings, nine of which are historic. Six of the buildings have been authentically restored and furnished for their dates of construction which range from 1732 to 1859. The site is open to the public and staffed six days a week, year-round. The Safrit Historical Center on the site serves as a welcome center providing information on the Town of Beaufort and events. The Center also includes a retail shop. 

The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of the Association and serves at the pleasure of the Board of Governors under the terms of employment established by the Board. The ED is responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial health of the Association. The ED ensures that the mission of the Association is fulfilled through programs, strategic planning, and community outreach.  

Position Responsibilities 

Leadership and Management (20%)

• Vision and Strategy. In collaboration with the Board of Directors, develop and implement strategies that align with the organization’s mission and goals. 

• Board Collaboration. Work closely with the Board of Governors to define and communicate the organization’s vision and direction.  

• Team Leadership. Recruit, hire and manage a strong staff. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment. 

• Goal Setting. Set and monitor progress towards goals and objectives to achieve strategic priorities.  

Operational Oversight (20%)

• Program Management. Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s programs and services. 

• Compliance. Ensure that the organization adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements.  

• Policy Development. Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure efficient operation. 

Financial Management (35%)

• Budgeting. With the Treasurer and Finance Committee, develop and manage the organization’s budget. Ensure financial stability and sustainability. 

• Fundraising. Oversee and participate in fundraising efforts, including grant writing donor cultivation, and fundraising events. 

• Financial Reporting. Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting to the Board and other stakeholders.  

Community and Public Relations (20%)

• Advocacy. Represent the organization in the community and advocate for its missions and programs.  

• Partnerships. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholder, including donors, community leaders, and other nonprofit organizations. 

• Communications. Oversee the development and implementation of marketing and communications strategies to enhance the organization’s public image and outreach.  

Board Administration and Support (5%)

• Board Meetings. Prepare for and participate in Board meetings. Provide timely and accurate information to the Board.  

• Governance. Assist the Board in the implementation of governance best practices. 

Competencies, Skills, Qualifications

• Four-year degree. 

• Minimum five years senior management experience in a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization or five+ years in other non-profit management roles. 

• Strong understanding of non-profit financial management. 

• Proven leadership skills and abilities. 

• Experience with fundraising through member recruitment, grant writing, major event planning. 

• Knowledge of historical association programs (education, seminars, community events) is a plus. 

• Excellent communications and interpersonal skills.  

• Strong critical thinking skills and decision-making ability. 

• Proficient software skills: budgeting and reporting, communications, marketing, graphic design. 

The Executive Director is a full-time, on-site position in Beaufort, NC. The position requires evening and weekend work as needed to support the Association’s events. Salary is commensurate with experience.