Job Description – BWAF Director
New York, NY
Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation, a national research and education non-profit, offers an exceptional opportunity for an inspired and energetic leader who is passionate about advocating for the advancement of women in the built environment in the U.S. –past, present and future—to become its next director. BWAF is accepting applications from those who have non-profit experience and management skills with a background in or knowledge of modern [1900+] architectural history and women’s issues.
The new director will provide strategic leadership, creative vision and direction for the Foundation, helping it implement its core programs and reach its full potential as the nation’s foremost source for historical and current data and research about women in architecture and related fields. BWAF programs reach thousands of professionals, educators and students around the nation.
Summary of Position
The new director will help develop an action plan for BWAF, building on the successes of the past 10 years. Working with the staff and Board members, she/he will grow and expand the current core programs and create new initiatives that will reach greater numbers of participants in person and through digital means.
Reporting to the chair and the BWAF Board of Trustees, the director will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of BWAF, leading a dedicated and committed staff, and ensuring the quality of existing programs and activities within a fiscally sound business plan. He/she will play a key role as spokesperson, fundraiser, and internal and external marketer for the foundation. The director will work with staff as well as the board and board committees to identify and cultivate new patrons and institutional funding sources, significantly expanding contributions and earned income streams.
Key Responsibilities
- Strengthen and expand existing BWAF core programs.
- Collaborate with university-based architecture schools as well as academic and professional organizations to encourage research about women;
- Serve as an enthusiastic fundraiser for BWAF; initiate and oversee the solicitation and acquisition of grants and gifts; identify potential donors; expand and diversify funding from all sources;
- Lead BWAF’s marketing, branding and public relations efforts; expand the reach of BWAF nationally and internationally;
- Ensure BWAF is a leader in the application of digital media and other forms of 21st-century technology;
Skills and Qualifications
- Demonstrated leadership experience and seasoned management skills, supervising people, operations and budgets for a small non-profit;
- Significant experience in developing, executing and marketing programs; with proven track record of dynamic, innovative programming that engages diverse audiences and is financially viable;
- Experience in successful fundraising from individuals, foundations, government and corporate sectors;
- Excellent oral and written communication skills coupled with strong problem-solving experience;
- An advanced degree in architectural history or a related field, OR experience in architecture, engineering, construction or a related field; special appreciation for the history of modern architecture (post 1900); familiarity with the field of women’s studies.
Salary commensurate with experience. Applications will be reviewed beginning May 1, 2013.
Target start date is June 15, 2013, or until position is filled.
Applicants should include a cover letter explaining in detail why this job is of interest and how you will apply your skills and vision to advancing the foundation’s mission. Send the cover letter and a CV (no more than 3 pages) in .pdf format to careers(at)bwaf.org, with the subject line: BWAF Director. For further information about BWAF, visit www.bwaf.org. No phone calls, please.
