• Application for Employment

Job Title: Executive Director
Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Board of Directors
Location: Bootheel Youth Museum, Malden, Missouri

Please send the Application for Employment and a Resume/CV to info@bootheelyouthmuseum.org.

About the Bootheel Youth Museum
The Bootheel Youth Museum is a hands-on children’s museum dedicated to inspiring curiosity, creativity, and learning for children and families in the Missouri Bootheel region. Through interactive exhibits, educational programming, and community partnerships, the museum provides opportunities for young people to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) while fostering imagination, discovery, and play.

The museum serves as an important community resource—bringing together families, educators, and local organizations to support youth development, lifelong learning, and regional pride.

Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and primary leader of the Bootheel Youth Museum. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for advancing the museum’s mission through strategic leadership, community engagement, fundraising, and effective organizational management.

The Executive Director oversees all aspects of the museum’s operations, including financial stewardship, exhibit and program development, staff leadership, and partnerships that expand the museum’s impact in the region. The successful candidate will be a collaborative leader who values creativity, community engagement, and educational excellence.

The Executive Director hours will be Monday-Friday for forty hours, as well as some nights and weekends during special events. Salary will be $40,000-$47,000 per year depending on experience, annual bonus, benefit stipend (health insurance) up to $250 per month, and a BYM issued cell phone. Deadline to apply is by May 30, 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Direction

• Provide leadership for the museum’s strategic direction, programs, and organizational growth.
• Work with the Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term goals and priorities.
• Serve as the museum’s primary spokesperson and ambassador within the community.
• Advise the Board on opportunities, challenges, and strategies that strengthen the museum’s impact and sustainability.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Build strong relationships with families, educators, community leaders, and regional organizations.
• Develop partnerships with schools, civic groups, and local businesses to expand the museum’s reach.
• Promote the museum as a welcoming space for children and families throughout the Bootheel region.
• Strengthen the museum’s visibility and reputation as a community asset.

Fundraising and Development

• Lead fundraising efforts including grants, sponsorships, individual donations, and special events.
• Work closely with the Board to cultivate donor relationships and expand philanthropic support.
• Identify opportunities to diversify revenue and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Financial and Operational Management

• Oversee development and management of the museum’s annual operating budget.
• Ensure responsible financial stewardship and transparent reporting to the Board.
• Manage day-to-day operations including exhibits, programs, visitor services, and facilities.
• Establish policies and procedures that support effective and safe museum operations.

Program and Exhibit Development

• Oversee the development and improvement of interactive exhibits and educational programming.
• Ensure experiences support STEAM learning while encouraging creativity, exploration, and play.
• Continuously evaluate visitor experiences and identify opportunities to enhance engagement.

Staff and Volunteer Leadership

• Recruit, develop, and support a strong team of staff and volunteers.
• Foster a positive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• Encourage teamwork, creativity, and innovation across the organization.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, education, museum studies, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Five to ten years of leadership experience in a nonprofit, educational, museum, or community organization.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor engagement, or grant development.
• Experience with strategic planning, budgeting, and organizational management.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Financial literacy and experience managing budgets and operations.
• Ability to build partnerships and inspire community support.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into action.
• Passion for education, youth development, and community engagement.

Work Environment

This is a full-time leadership position with a typical weekday schedule. Occasional evenings and weekends may be required to support museum programs, community events, and fundraising activities. The role requires flexibility, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Correspondents

Please send the Application for Employment and a Resume/CV to info@bootheelyouthmuseum.org.

• Application for Employment