Position Opening: Executive Director at The Whale Museum The Whale Museum, a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is seeking an Executive Director with exceptional management, fundraising, and strategic planning abilities.
This individual will be instrumental in addressing both immediate operational needs and steering the Museum’s long-term development. As the leader of a passionate and committed team, the Executive Director will inspire and guide a small but dynamic staff. Located on San Juan Island in the small town of Friday Harbor, Washington, USA, the position offers a unique opportunity to be at the heart of Southern Resident Killer Whale conservation efforts and to make a significant impact in this beautiful and ecologically rich region. Full job description including organization details, required qualifications, compensation, and application instructions can be accessed at https://whalemuseum.org/pages/job-internship-volunteer-opportunities Background Established in 1978, The Whale Museum is dedicated to fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the Pacific Northwest marine environment. As the only museum dedicated to whales living in the wild, including the critically endangered Southern Resident killer whales, we are committed to promoting marine conservation through education, research, and community engagement. Our mission is to inspire both residents and visitors to become stewards of the Salish Sea and its inhabitants. The Executive Director position offers a unique opportunity for a dedicated and passionate leader to work collaboratively with the community, as well as state, federal, and local stakeholders, within the beautiful and remote environment of the San Juan Islands. Position Description The new Executive Director (ED) will inherit a successful organization with a rich history of local impact and community engagement, poised for an exciting new chapter. As the Museum approaches its 50th anniversary, the ED will have the opportunity to lead a transformative journey, ushering in fresh exhibits, pioneering research initiatives, and a revitalized approach to marine conservation and education. The role involves working closely with a dedicated team to enhance existing partnerships while building new connections with sponsors and universities to support students and broaden our impact. Additionally, the ED will focus on fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment that promotes the growth of early career researchers and employees. Engaging with regional stakeholders, including the communities of the San Juan Islands, Salish Sea tribal sovereign nations, and local and state governments, the ED will become a thoughtful and proactive community presence. This position offers a unique chance to lead innovation and shape the future of The Whale Museum, guided by priorities and principles established by The Whale Museum board and staff. Essential qualifications include: ● Leadership: Exemplifies a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive leadership approach, fostering a workplace where diverse opinions are valued, and empathetic listening is practiced. ● Political and Social Acuity: Exceptional political and social skills necessary for navigating the unique dynamics of a small island community with complex local politics and diverse conservation interests. ● Strategic Vision: Demonstrates a keen strategic perspective with a proven ability to integrate the museum’s mission into all aspects of planning and decision-making. ● Fundraising: Demonstrated success in driving effective fundraising initiatives, including securing major individual contributions and government grants, and developing sponsorships. ● Proven Nonprofit Leadership: Demonstrated experience in nonprofit organizational and financial management with the ability to effectively manage and sustainably grow a ~$1.3M budget. ● Communication Skills: Excellent written and oral communication abilities, including public relations, media relations, essays, op-eds, and speaking before large groups. ● Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural Sensitivity: Proven ability to integrate DEI principles into organizational practices, fostering a respectful, inclusive environment for staff and the diverse local community while honoring and collaborating with Indigenous traditions and perspectives. ● Minimum Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental policy, business, finance, organizational management or related field required. ● Preferred: Advanced degree in related field with additional non-profit and/or business experience, financial management, organizational and staff management, and relevant training in the aforementioned fields. ● Desired: Regional expertise and familiarity with the environmental, political, and cultural issues of the Pacific Northwest, including tribal relations and Salish Sea ecology, enhancing the ability of The Whale Museum to address regional concerns effectively. How to Apply View job description, qualifications, and application instructions here: https://whalemuseum.org/pages/job-internship-volunteer-opportunities. Please review the PDF version linked within the posting for full job description details. Open date: September 30, 2024 First review date: October 28, 2024 The position is open until filled. Start date is negotiable with Q1 2025 preferred. Alanna Frayne (she/her) Soundwatch Program Director The Whale Museum 62 First St N | Friday Harbor, WA 98250 Please be advised that my response may be delayed during the field season (May-September).
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