Position Title: Executive Director

Classification: Exempt, Onsite, Full-Time

Annual Salary: $80,000 - $100,000+ paid vacation+SEP-IRA Retirement Plan

Reports To: Trustee

Supervises: Full-Time Staff

About the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage

Nestled in the heart of Ridgeland, South Carolina, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a vibrant cultural institution housed in the beautifully preserved 1937 Sinclair Service Station—an iconic structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once a vital stop along the historic U.S. Highway 17, this building stands as a symbol of the region’s rich past and enduring connection to transportation, commerce, and community.

This September marks the Morris Center’s 10th year of opening its doors to the public, and we are poised to build on a decade of impactful exhibitions, educational programming, and historic preservation. As we celebrate this important milestone, we are looking for a visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and innovation.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive of the Morris Center, responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and community vision. The ED will champion our mission to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the Lowcountry while ensuring dynamic programming, sustainable growth, and deep community engagement.

This is a rare opportunity for a forward-thinking leader with a passion for heritage, education, and nonprofit excellence to shape the future of a beloved institution at a pivotal moment in its history.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• ·         Lead the development and execution of the (2026-2028) strategic plan that advances the Center's mission.
• ·         Serve as the organization’s primary ambassador to the public, partners, donors, and government entities.
• ·         Ensure ongoing alignment with community needs and regional cultural trends.
• ·         Provide regular performance, financial, and program updates to the Trustee.

Staff Leadership & Culture

• ·         Supervise, mentor, and support a dedicated team of full-time staff.
• ·         Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven organizational culture.
• ·         Promote professional development and high performance among staff.

Operations & Financial Oversight

• ·         Manage all aspects of day-to-day operations to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.
• ·         Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring strong fiscal health.
• ·         Work closely with the Trustee to maintain financial best practices and long-term sustainability.
• ·         Oversee the care and preservation of several historic properties under the Center's stewardship.

Fundraising & Resource Development

• ·         Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies, including grants, major gifts, and donor cultivation.
• ·         Build strong relationships with individual supporters, foundations, and sponsors.
• ·         Lead and support all aspects of grant writing and reporting, including identifying opportunities, drafting proposals, and ensuring timely, accurate submissions.

Exhibitions, Programs & Community Engagement

• ·         Ensure the delivery of compelling exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programs.
• ·         Collaborate with the Programs & Exhibitions Director to attract diverse audiences and reflect the region’s heritage.
• ·         Support educational programs like Fuel the Mind and other outreach efforts.
• ·         Maintain and grow partnerships with schools, nonprofits, civic leaders, and community organizations.

Collections & Preservation

• ·         Oversee care, conservation, and display of the Center’s collections and loaned artifacts.
• ·         Ensure adherence to museum industry standards and legal requirements in collections management.

Public Relations & Communications

• ·         Oversee marketing and communications strategies that raise the profile of the Center.
• ·         Serve as a public spokesperson and media representative.
• ·         Champion the Center as a resource for cultural exchange and education in the Lowcountry.

Qualifications & Experience

Required

• ·         Equivalent of a Master’s degree in Museum Studies, Arts Administration, Nonprofit Management, or related field.
• ·         3–5 years of senior leadership experience in a museum, cultural institution, or nonprofit.
• ·         Proven success in fundraising, grant writing, and securing sustainable financial support.
• ·         Strong leadership skills with experience managing and motivating teams.
• ·         Knowledge of museum operations, including exhibitions, collections, and educational programs.
• ·         Outstanding communication and relationship-building abilities.
• ·         Experience working with boards or trustees in a governance role.
• ·         Passion for cultural preservation and a deep appreciation for Lowcountry heritage.

Additional Requirements

• ·         Proficiency in Microsoft Office and scheduling/POS systems.
• ·         Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• ·         Ability to lift to 30 lbs., use stairs/ladders, and work in indoor/outdoor settings.
• ·         Familiarity with ADA accessibility standards and safety protocols.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and three references to: annmarie.reiley@icloud.com
Please include "Executive Director" in the subject line.