Executive Director

Executive Director
Columbia Play Project
Job Details:
Salary: $100,000 – $115,000 annually
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits: Paid Time Off, Health Insurance Allowance, Simple IRA
To Apply: Send Resume and Cover Letter to Jeanne Bennett, Info@columbiaplayproject.org.
Position Summary:
Columbia Play Project (CPP) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization in its mission to inspire curiosity and learning through play. This role requires a strategic thinker who excels at leadership, fundraising, community engagement, and operational management. The Executive Director will oversee the Mobile Children’s Museum and the development of a permanent Children’s Museum, working closely with the Board of Directors to ensure the organization’s long-term success and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategic Planning:
● Provide visionary leadership to advance CPP’s mission and strategic goals.
● Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to develop and implement strategic plans.
● Cultivate a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and engagement among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
Fundraising & Resource Development:
● Develop and implement fundraising strategies, including grant writing, donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, and special events.
● Secure funding to sustain and grow CPP’s programs, operations, and museum development.
● Build and maintain strong relationships with foundations, businesses, government agencies, and individual donors.
Operations & Financial Management:
● Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and adherence to best practices.
● Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability.
● Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations and maintain transparency in financial reporting.
● Oversee facility planning, exhibit development, and long-term sustainability strategies for the Children’s Museum.
Community Engagement & Advocacy:
● Serve as the public face of CPP, building strong partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders.
● Advocate for play-based learning and equitable access to educational opportunities.
● Ensure programming reflects the needs and diversity of the community.
Staff & Program Management:
● Lead, mentor, and manage staff and collaborate with volunteers to ensure high-quality programming.
● Oversee the design and implementation of engaging, educational play experiences.
● Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
● As a small nonprofit, we all wear many hats. Other duties may be required.
Qualifications & Experience:
● Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in a museum, nonprofit organization, or related field.
● Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
● Experience in museum exhibit development, facility management, or capital projects preferred.
● Strong background in nonprofit management, including board governance and compliance.
● Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
● Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, education, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field.
● Fluency in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, or other languages is a plus.
Skills & Abilities:
● Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.
● Ability to cultivate relationships and build community partnerships.
● Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and social media management.
● Ability to balance big-picture vision with hands-on operational management.
This is a full time, Monday through Friday position with occasional evening and weekend work.
This position is currently fully remote with frequent onsite program attendance and in person meetings.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Columbia Play Project is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.