Chief Executive Officer

National Children’s Museum’s mission is to inspire children to care about and change the world. National Children’s Museum is a unique hybrid institution, combining learning elements found in a science center with children’s museum experiences. Through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) focused exhibits and playful, in-person and virtual program offerings, the Museum sparks curiosity and ignites creativity for all learners, with an emphasis on children ages 2-12.

National Children’s Museum seeks an accomplished leader who has a compelling vision for the power of informal learning environments. This individual is a curious, lifelong learner who is passionate about visitor and member engagement. This leader will be a tireless advocate for the Museum’s mission and will inspire others to support the institution’s outcomes and success. Key skills and attributes include:

Creative, Focused, Strategic Thinking: An adept strategist and visionary leader, the next CEO will exhibit robust business acumen and the understanding of the impact of interactive, alternative learning environments, which may include children’s museums, science centers, or other nonprofit or government backgrounds. 

Internal and External Communications: As the key spokesperson for National Children’s Museum, the CEO will be an enthusiastic, passionate, and outgoing individual who will serve as an ambassador for the Museum. The leader will be willing to engrain themselves into the unique fabric of Washington, DC and seek partnership with Board members, donors, elected officials, corporate executives and other supporters. The ideal candidate must show evidence of successful fundraising leadership that includes the acquisition of major gifts and grants from foundations, corporations, individuals, and the public sector at the local, state, and national level. Experience working in public/private partnerships with a high level of community involvement and impact is beneficial.  

Proven Organizational Leadership and Management Skills: This individual will be both leader and coach – one who understands effective design and implementation of staff management and organizational structures. This leader will have experience in hiring, coaching, collaborating, delegating, problem solving, and goal setting within a multidisciplinary staff. The successful candidate will be a good listener, someone who invites input before acting decisively. This person will enjoy working in a collaborative environment and can demonstrate the ability to successfully manage people and operations while empowering, delegating, motivating, and mentoring the work force. A strong desire to build and support volunteer resources is highly valued.

National Children’s Museum offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The salary range for this position annually is between $250,000 – $300,000 and will be commensurable with experience. The comprehensive benefits package includes health and dental insurance as well as a 403(B)-retirement savings plan. National Children’s Museum provides basic life and short-term disability insurance coverage. NCM observes six paid holidays each year and offers generous paid time off.

For best consideration, please submit a current resume and letter of introduction, by 08/06/2024, to Kittleman & Associates, LLC. Submit your application online at https://bit.ly/ncmceo.