Executive Director
African American Museum of Iowa, Cedar Rapids, IA, United States
The African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) is the only museum in Iowa dedicated to preserving and sharing the state's African American history. AAMI serves as a resource for fostering conversations on community, race, and social justice, encouraging understanding and reflection across the state. The museum strives to build connections and broaden awareness of Iowa's African American heritage, ensuring past stories are shared to shape a successful, inclusive future. Dedicated to education and engagement, AAMI invites individuals to join its mission of preserving and championing African American history in Iowa.
Overview
The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Museum's operations, including staff management, fundraising, strategic planning, board development, and community engagement. This full-time and fully in-person position reports to the Board of Directors.
Position Impact
The Executive Director’s leadership is crucial to ensuring the Museum remains a vibrant and relevant institution that serves as a beacon of history, education, preservation, and inspiration for the entire state of Iowa.
Qualifications
A minimum of five years of experience in a nonprofit leadership role is preferred, ideally within a cultural or educational institution. Experience in staff management, fundraising, strategic planning, board development, and stakeholder engagement. Candidates with a proximity to the Midwest, have a deep understanding of and commitment to the Museum's mission, with a strong emphasis on the candidate’s lived experience and cultural competency are encouraged to apply. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team and community. Proven track record of successful fundraising and financial management, with the ability to develop and maintain strong donor relationships. A Bachelor's degree in Business, Non-Profit Administration, Organizational Leadership, Museum Studies, or related field is required. Must be available to work weekends as needed to support the Museum’s mission and related programs and events
Salary & Benefits
The salary for this position is $65,000 - $70,000 annually, commensurate with listed qualifications and experience.
Health Insurance - Health insurance (employee only): The AAMI pays 80% towards the individual cost of the employee's single health insurance plan. The AAMI also provides dental and vision insurance to full-time employees (employee only) at no charge to the employee.
Leave - Full-time employees will accrue paid vacation on the first day of the month based on their length of service from the most recent date of hire or their first date as a full-time employee. 160 hours annually during the first 9 years of employment. Sick leave, bereavement leave, and salary continuance are also part of the benefits package.
Holidays - 10 Paid Holidays
How to Apply
- Please send a cover letter, resume, and references (2 professional and 2 character) to This position is open until filled. For more information about the Museum, visit our website at blackiowa.org. Please direct questions to