The ECHO, Leahy Center of Lake Champlain seeks a bold and visionary Executive Director to lead all staff in fulfilling the museum’s mission to inspire and engage families in the joy of scientific discovery, wonder of nature, and care of Lake Champlain.
Building on the museum’s strengths and successful evolution, the ideal candidate will be energized by the opportunity to work collaboratively with both the board and staff on four priority areas: designing and implementing a new strategic plan, building additional financial capacity, developing and empowering the internal team, and engaging with external partners and community members.
The successful candidate will demonstrate their ability to meaningfully engage all constituencies in the development of a compelling strategic plan that propels the museum into its next chapter and beyond. A demonstrated track record of aligning resources to simultaneously address both current operational needs and progress on strategic priorities is equally important. Evidence of innovative thinking coupled with knowledge of best practices and data-informed decision-making is strongly desired.
Top candidates will have a penchant for action while also consistently demonstrating a transparent and consultative style of decision-making. They will be an exceptional communicator and possess the ability to inspire and motivate staff at all levels of the organization. The ideal candidate will demonstrate evidence of inclusive and equitable leadership in previous work experiences. They will view leadership through a growth mindset and will relish the opportunity to support and develop staff and teams to drive maximum operational effectiveness while fostering a positive work culture.
The Executive Director will provide overall leadership and management of the day-to-day operations of the museum and its staff. As such, strong candidates will be able to provide leadership, through and in collaboration with Senior Staff, on exhibit and educational planning, financial and risk management, human resources, marketing/communications, retail and event management, facility maintenance, and animal care.
Candidates must be able to develop meaningful relationships that expand the museum’s relevance and relevance within the community. Direct experience in fundraising, and the ability to cultivate funds through both individual solicitations and grant or foundation-sourced contributions, is required. The ability to leverage professional networks and relationships to develop new partnerships and funding sources is viewed as a valuable asset.
The successful candidate will possess, through a combination of academic experience and professional achievement, a strong science-related background. The ideal candidate will also hold a heartfelt passion for ECHO’s mission and a deep love of science education, native wildlife, and environmental stewardship.
Review of candidates will begin immediately, with a preferred application date of October 21, 2022, and will continue until the position is filled. To apply, please email a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references to ECHOED@hawleyconsultingservices.com. All correspondence will be treated as confidential and references will not be contacted without prior permission.
ECHO is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates for employment who will contribute to our diversity.
ECHO requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
About ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is an innovative science and nature museum located on the Burlington Waterfront. Open daily, ECHO encourages visitors to view the natural environment as part of their neighborhood and to explore, learn about, and consider opportunities for stewardship. Since 1995, we have taught more than 3 million visitors about the role of science in our culture and lives. ECHO leverages its unique setting to inspire and engage families in the joy of scientific discovery, wonder of nature, and care of Lake Champlain. To learn more about ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, visit: https://www.echovermont.org/
ECHO is dedicated to creating a space where diversity, equity, and inclusion are sought and celebrated – in our workplace, with our guests, and in our community. We are committed to working toward an inclusive, equitable, and empowering organization. We take personal responsibility for change, challenge the status quo, and work to ensure greater access and opportunities for all.
We take our role as a community science center seriously and prioritize inclusive experiences for guests, grounded in direct community feedback. We are breaking down barriers so that all visitors can experience the joy of scientific discovery and the wonder of nature. Our ongoing professional development opportunities regularly focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion; informing and shaping the practices of our individual roles and collective responsibilities in ways that support both our visitors’ experiences and our staff’s working environment.
We aim for continuous learning through exploring our individual and institutional experiences with privilege and prejudice, with the goal to improve our skills and actions to meet the needs of our increasingly diverse community. We strive to demonstrate an understanding of cultural differences and include and welcome others. We consider the perspectives of others when we make decisions, and take initiative to understand the issues affecting our coworkers, guests, and community. We see our work through a lens of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access; and seek to improve our own understanding.