What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at American Jazz Museum?
AMERICAN JAZZ MUSEUM
Executive Director Opportunity
Kansas City, Missouri
THE OPPORTUNITY
The American Jazz Museum seeks a visionary and strategic Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth, national positioning, and institutional renewal. Serving as the chief executive leader, the Executive Director will provide strategic, financial, and operational leadership across the Museum and its affiliated venues—the Gem Theater and The Blue Room—while advancing the organization’s mission and strengthening its role as a premier cultural destination. This is a defining leadership opportunity to elevate the Museum’s profile, expand revenue streams, and guide a dynamic period of transformation in advance of major milestones.
The American Jazz Museum seeks a visionary and strategic Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth, national positioning, and institutional renewal. Serving as the chief executive leader, the Executive Director will provide strategic, financial, and operational leadership across the Museum and its affiliated venues—the Gem Theater and The Blue Room—while advancing the organization’s mission and strengthening its role as a premier cultural destination. This is a defining leadership opportunity to elevate the Museum’s profile, expand revenue streams, and guide a dynamic period of transformation in advance of major milestones.
LEADERSHIP MANDATE
Strategic & Transformational Leadership: Establish and execute a clear vision that drives growth and sustainability; lead transformation with measurable impact.
Organizational Renewal & Team Leadership: Lead organizational renewal, recruit and build a high-performing team, and foster a culture of excellence.
Mission Stewardship: Ensure all operations and programming reflect the Museum’s mission and cultural integrity.
Operations & Revenue: Oversee operations, expand revenue streams, and ensure financial sustainability.
Board & Community Engagement: Partner with the Board and serve as primary ambassador to stakeholders.
KEY PRIORITIES
- Organizational and talent restructuring
- Revenue diversification and sustainability
- Enhanced national visibility
- Capital improvements (~$3.2M)
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE
The ideal candidate is a dynamic, mission-driven executive with experience leading complex organizations through growth and transformation, with strong leadership, operational expertise, and a proven ability to build high-performing teams.
CLOSING
This role requires a leader who is both a builder and a steward—capable of assembling a high-caliber team, strengthening institutional foundations, and ensuring the Museum consistently delivers on its mission with excellence, relevance, and integrity.