Job Listing: Executive Director (Rawls Museum Arts) - Virginia Association of Museums : Job Details

Rawls Museum Arts | Courtland, VAFull-Time | Salary: $42,000-$50,000

Rawls Museum Arts, a nonprofit center for the arts rooted in the heart of Courtland, Virginia, is seeking a dedicated and dynamic Executive Director to lead our organization into its next chapter. Serving Southampton County, the City of Franklin, and beyond, we are a community-driven museum committed to offering meaningful art experiences, outreach, and exhibitions.This is a hands-on leadership role—ideal for someone who is passionate about the arts and ready to wear multiple hats. As a small organization with a current staff of four (including this role), we're looking for someone who can both shape the vision and help carry it out.

About the Role

The Executive Director is the chief executive and lead ambassador of the museum, responsible for both strategic growth and daily operations. The Executive Director will collaborate with a supportive Board of Directors, lead a small and creative team, and help grow Rawls Museum Arts' visibility and impact in the region.The Executive Director will oversee everything from fundraising strategy, grant writing, and budgeting to staff scheduling, exhibit curation, and public relations—sometimes jumping in to help coordinate an event or update social media. The Executive Director will be the glue that holds the organization together and the voice that carries it forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans and organizational goals in partnership with the Board
• Lead fundraising efforts including annual giving, grants, donor relations, sponsorships, and memberships
• Represent the museum in the community and with regional/state arts networks

Operations & Oversight

• Supervise and support staff and volunteers, including scheduling and task coordination
• Manage financial operations including budgeting, reporting, and working with the Treasurer
• Coordinate day-to-day functions such as facilities (in partnership with Southampton County), supplies, insurance, and compliance
• Step in as needed to ensure programming and operations stay on track

Programs & Community Engagement

• Support exhibitions, events, and outreach programs aligned with the museum's mission
• Promote museum visibility through marketing, partnerships, and media engagement
• Cultivate relationships with artists, educators, donors, and community stakeholders

Qualifications

• Experience in nonprofit leadership, arts management, fundraising, or related fields
• Strong communication (written and verbal), problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Comfort balancing strategic planning with hands-on tasks
• Experience writing or managing grants is a plus
• Familiarity with budgets, donor databases, social media, and day-to-day nonprofit operations
• A passion for the arts and belief in their power to build community
• Ability to work evening and weekend events

A degree in Art History, Museum Studies, Non-Profit Management, or related fields is helpful but not required. Lived experience, initiative, and commitment matter just as much.

• Salary: $42,000-$50,000, based on experience
• Benefits: Health insurance and Paid Time Off
• Work Environment: Supportive team, Board partnership, meaningful community impact

To Apply

Submit a resume and cover letter sharing why this role resonates with you and your experience. Please submit by July 31, 2025 [email protected] .