Executive Director

The Board of Regents for the Museum of New Mexico and The Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs seek an exceptional individual to fill the position of Executive Director of Museum of Indian Arts & Culture (MIAC). This is an exciting opportunity for a well-qualified and visionary candidate to establish a bold new direction, building on the work of centering Native knowledge and perspectives in the creation of all exhibitions, programs, and research. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to engage both longtime and newer staff in generating meaningful connections with the community, visitors, and scholars. Additionally, the new Executive Director has the chance to create a framework for dynamically embracing the mandate and spirit of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, particularly as it relates to work at the Archeological Research Collection, the State of New Mexico’s official archeological repository. Working with the Museum of New Mexico Foundation, MIAC’s private fundraising partner, the Executive Director has significant opportunities to reinvigorate relationships with longtime donors and new supporters.

The Ideal Candidate

Leadership Experience • At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience within a cultural and/or educational institution, with a focus on Native communities of the American Southwest strongly preferred. • Significant experience in the management and operation of a similar organization, including exhibitions, educational programs, and public programs. • A positive track record of successfully leading and managing personnel. Knowledge • In-depth knowledge and understanding of local and regional Native communities, including those of the American Southwest. • Expertise in fund development, grants management, public-private partnerships, and program development with a successful track record, ideally within a cultural and/or educational institution. Knowledge of relevant subject matter demonstrated by scholarly accomplishments. Skills • Expertise in the field of museum management, curation, and museum trends with experience incorporating Native viewpoints in interpretation. • Ability to oversee budgetary and administrative functions. • Experience in process and procedure development and implementation, ability to devise and implement strategic planning experience in an institutional setting. • Understanding of multidisciplined approach to engagement with Native, non-Native, and support communities, with a demonstrated track record of success. • Exceptional interpersonal and public relations skills. • Outstanding written and oral communications. • Experience working with boards, foundations, and other key stakeholders invested in the success of a cultural institution. • Experience working in government or similar structures. Personal Characteristics • A deep passion for Native arts, cultures, communities, and constituencies of the American Southwest. • An ability to work collaboratively as a member of a diverse community and make an impact in a complex, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment. • An entrepreneurial spirit.

Responsibilities

The Executive Director of MIAC is a seasoned administrator with a record of successful leadership of a multidisciplinary museum organization, oversight of a professional staff, and proven resource development. The director supervises a dedicated staff responsible for the preservation and interpretation of Native ethnographic, contemporary, and archaeological objects that represent the diverse Native peoples of the American Southwest.

$123,000 annually