DIRECTOR OF MUSEUM INTERPRETATION

Drayton Hall, a historic site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, seeks an experienced and innovative professional as Director of Museum Interpretation. Currently, Drayton Hall has a staff of 15 full time employees and 40 part time, with an operating budget of $1.7M, an endowment of $10M, and attendance of 55,000/year, about 8,000 of whom are students. Its recent strategic plan calls for sustainable growth and for the site to become a Preservation Resource and Learning Center. It identifies this new position as a key member of the leadership team to achieve the vision for Drayton Hall. 

This person will report to the Director and be responsible for all interpretive programs, including tours, exhibits, public programs, school programs, and the new Preservation Resource and Learning Center that is to be developed. All efforts are to be in support of Drayton Hall's strategic plan and the initiatives of the Next Trust plan. Specifically, this person will:

• Contribute to the overall success of Drayton Hall in achieving its mission.
• Play a key role in the development of the site master plan and in the design and development of interpretive facilities, including the Center.
• Strategically build the Interpretation Department in keeping with the strategic plan.
• Oversee the management of full and part-time education and interpretation staff, volunteers, and interns. 
• Oversee projects that are interpretation-based. 
• Oversee development of on-line educational and interpretive programs.
• Assist the Director and Director of Development in fund-raising efforts. 
• Coordinate inter-departmental special projects as required.
• Be a team player and be able to tactfully lead, follow, and/or support colleagues.

This person should be experienced in outreach and partnerships, for the person will work closely with Drayton Hall’s Site Council and consultants, with other Trust sites and departments, with other museums and historical organizations, and with schools, public agencies, and community members. Both writing and interpersonal skills are critical.

Criteria for evaluating success: Performance measures will include realization of Drayton Hall's strategic goals in collaboration with staff and outside partners.       

Qualifications: Master's Degree in museum studies, education, historic preservation, history, architecture, liberal arts or related field required; PhD, desired. Minimum 10 years experience in professional capacity working with museums, historic sites, preservation organization, or related setting in the fields of interpretation and education. Proven oral, written, administrative, and managerial skills, along with fundraising experience.

Resumes should be sent to the attention of Dr. George McDaniel, Executive Director of Drayton Hall.