Job Description

Director – National Museum of African Art Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. About National Museum of African Art Founded in 1964, the National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) inspires conversations about the beauty, power, and diversity of African arts and cultures worldwide. It joined the Smithsonian in 1979 and became the National Museum of African Art two years later. The Museum is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., adjacent to other Smithsonian national museums. NMAfA welcomes individuals of diverse backgrounds, with attendance ranging between 130,000-165,000 annually in recent years (pre-COVID). With more than 12,000 objects from around the continent, NMAfA houses the largest collection of African art in the United States. The Museum has approximately 25 staff and engages in various educational programs and collaborations with African museums and cultural organizations. The Opportunity The Director of the National Museum of African Art is responsible for the overall strategy, direction, development, and management of all museum programs and activities. Specific duties and responsibilities include: Vision and strategy : Provides intellectual vision and overall leadership for NMAfA; formulates strategic plans to achieve its mission. Internal executive leadership : Oversees all NMAfA departments in planning, development, and management of programs and activities. Fundraising and external leadership : Serves as the key communicator for the Museum; leads fundraising initiatives and coordinates efforts with the NMAfA Advisory Board. Team management : Recruits, develops, and leads an exceptional team; creates a diverse and inclusive culture. Financial management : Oversees the development and execution of the annual operating budget. Collaboration : Works closely with Smithsonian leadership and other Directors to further the Smithsonian’s mission. Collection management : Develops and implements criteria for artwork acquisitions. Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is an inspiring and collaborative leader who can convey a vision for the future, create a clear strategy, and fortify an outstanding team. Candidates should have a high level of achievement in developing strategies, building support, and engaging audiences. A passion for African art and culture is essential. The candidate will have proven experience in leadership related to Africa and the arts, and a commitment to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. Compensation & Benefits Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience, ranging from $290,000 – $350,000 with a generous benefits package. Contact Koya Partners, the executive search firm, has been exclusively retained for this engagement. To express interest in this role, please submit a letter of interest and resume by filling out our Talent Profile: or email the team directly at Smithsonian_NMAFAdirector@koyapartners.com. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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