Museum Director

The Reedville Fishermen's Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich maritime heritage of Reedville, Virginia, a historic town tied to the menhaden fishing industry since the late 19th century. Through educational programs, exhibits, and community activities, the museum fosters appreciation for local maritime traditions and history. Its mission is to provide immersive experiences that encourage learning, exploration, and engagement.

Reedville remains a prominent commercial fishing port in the United States, second only to Kodiak, Alaska, making the museum a vital connection to the area's historic and contemporary identity.

The Museum Director is a full-time, on-site position based in Reedville, VA. The Director will oversee museum operations, implement strategic initiatives, and manage exhibitions showcasing the region's maritime history. The Museum Director serves as the main public representative of the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum, reporting to the Board of Directors. The Director will also represent the museum in public and professional forums to enhance its visibility and impact.

The Director provides leadership across exhibits, programs, grants, operations, and community engagement, ensuring alignment with the Museum’s mission and long-term sustainability. This is a full-time position with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.

• Serve as the public face of the Museum and steward its mission, reputation, and community relationships
• Lead curation of permanent and rotating exhibits
• Prepare and present reports to the Board of Directors and work collaboratively with Board committees
• Identify funding opportunities; write and manage grants in compliance with funder requirements
• Lead branding, marketing, and outreach efforts, with emphasis on social media
• Working with the Event Manager, the Director will assist with events
• Support museum events, educational programs, and community activities
• Oversee daily operations, including calendar coordination and administrative functions
• Provide administrative oversight of association staff
• Lead and support the volunteer program
  
  Develop and manage the Museum’s operational budget
• Participate in all Board Advisory Committees
• Lead, or delegate, all association operation committees

• Experience securing and writing grants for a nonprofit organization
• Experience with operational budgeting and financial oversight
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate, build consensus, and work effectively with diverse stakeholders

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
• Established grant experience, including successful administration of awarded funds
• Prior leadership experience within a museum, historical organization, or cultural institution