Executive Director

Executive Director, Washington Heritage Museums

Founded in 2012, Washington Heritage Museums (WHM) manages four 18th‑century historic properties in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia:
Mary Washington House, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Rising Sun Tavern, and St. James’ House. In 2023, the organization expanded its portfolio to include the Mary Washington Monument and the Caretaker’s Lodge, a site currently undergoing renovation and landscape redesign to improve accessibility and enhance its educational value. More information about WHM can be found at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Supported by a growing local, regional, and national community of members, WHM is dedicated to the preservation of its historic properties as well as their interpretation through inclusive narratives that inspire an engaging and enduring understanding of the Washington family.

As the leader of one of Fredericksburg’s most vital cultural institutions, the next WHM Executive Director (ED) will define and lead a strategic path to protect and advance the organization’s mission while ensuring long‑term sustainability and stability. Working closely with a 15‑member Board of Directors and its committees, the ED will serve as the WHM’s chief strategist, fundraiser, and manager. The ED will set and implement the organization’s strategic ideas for WHM moving forward;

drive financial and fundraising initiatives that support key priorities; safeguard historic properties and collections as well as uphold educational programs; oversee staff and coordinate volunteers; and foster community partnerships that expand WHM’s reach and membership. This full‑time, on‑site position is located in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

• Lead, consult, and contribute to conversations with the Board, WHM members and staff, and community stakeholders to advance the goals, objectives, and mission of the organization.
• Establish short‑ and long‑term priorities and oversee planning for all operations and administration of the WHM.
• Strategically guide the development of programs and activities to support identified priorities in alignment with available resources while addressing organizational challenges.

• Strengthen the organization’s financial stability by developing and monitoring operational and project budgets as well as managing the endowment investment portfolio.
• Develop and lead a robust grant‑writing strategy in support of the priorities and goals of the organization.
• Identify fundraising opportunities for ongoing work and special projects through individual donations, corporate sponsor ships, and foundation philanthropy.
• Oversee business management of the organization including, but not limited to: record keeping, payroll, tax filings, audit preparation, insurance coverage, debts, receipts and funds management.

• Ensure the ongoing conservation, repair, and restoration of the WHM historic structures, safeguarding architectural integrity while meeting safety and accessibility standards.
• Oversee the care, enhancement, and interpretation of gardens and surrounding landscapes, balancing historical authenticity with visitor experience.
• Direct the research, documentation, conservation, and interpretation of buildings, artifacts, and archival materials associated with the properties, ensuring scholarly accuracy and engaging storytelling for diverse audiences.

• Serve as an advocate of WHM—its mission and vision—to increase visibility of, access to, and engagement with the WHM properties, collections, and programs.
• Foster relationships and seek opportunities to partner with community constituencies, building relationships and opportunities for public engagement and donor support.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate public programs that foster meaningful community engagement, broaden participation, and strengthen connections between WHM and diverse audiences.

• Hire, manage, and evaluate full‑time staff and contract employees.
• Develop staff through coaching,…