Executive Director

About the Society

Founded in 1925, the Wellesley Historical Society (WHS) is the town’s only nonprofit dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Wellesley’s history. WHS operates the Wellesley History & Exhibit Center and The Tollhouse Shop, and engages the community through public programs such as the Speaker Series, Walking Tours, Trivia Night, Craft Beer Oktoberfest, and the Annual Spring Gala. Proceeds from the volunteer-run Tollhouse Shop support the Society’s mission.

Position Overview

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the Society’s lead professional, working closely with the volunteer Board of Directors to advance its mission and operations. The ED manages staff, programs, and facilities; oversees collections, finances, and public engagement; and represents the Society within the community. The ideal candidate combines nonprofit management expertise with enthusiasm for local history and volunteer collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Board to implement the Society’s strategic plan, budget, and fundraising goals.
• Manage daily operations, staff, volunteers, vendors, and facilities, including environmental and collections care.
• Supervise the Director of Exhibits and Collections in developing and installing rotating exhibits.
• Lead programs and fundraising events, sometimes outside normal business hours.
• Oversee financial management with bookkeeper and accountant.
• Manage The Tollhouse Shop and its volunteers.
• Support collections access for researchers and maintain collection integrity.
• Coordinate public communications including press, membership, website, social media, and email, with external marketing support.
• Serve as the Society’s liaison to Town officials and represent WHS in community forums.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in history, museum studies, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a nonprofit, museum, or historical organization.
• Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire and work collaboratively with volunteers.
• Passion for history and community engagement.

Position Details

• Hours: Full-time position; on-site presence required at least four days per week, with some evenings and weekends necessary.
• Compensation: Annual salary of $65,000, with potential for a bonus.
• Health and Dental Insurance Benefits available.
• Vacation: Four weeks of paid vacation each year.
• Wellesley Historical Society membership with North American Reciprocal Museum privileges.
• Reports to: Board of Directors, with direct reporting to the President.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter and résumé to: [email protected].

Learn more at

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Work Location: In person