What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Historic Properties position at Newfields?
Opportunity Title: Director of Historic Properties
Reports To: The Melvin & Bren Simon Director of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields
Salary or Hourly: Exempt/Salaried
Description
The Director of Historic Properties provides strategic leadership, stewardship, and vision for Newfields’ portfolio of ten historic properties, including two National Historic Landmark sites. This role ensures the preservation of architectural, landscape, and collection integrity while activating the properties through interpretation, education, community engagement, and sustainable revenue strategies. The Director works collaboratively across the institution to maintain relevance, accessibility, and alignment with Newfields’ mission.
Responsibilities
The following responsibilities describe the general nature of work for employees in this position, but this is not intended as an exclusive or all-inclusive inventory.
Historic Preservation and Site Management
- Preserve, protect, and promote ten historic structures, including two historic house museums.
- Plan and oversee restoration, maintenance, and capital improvement projects.
- Collaborate with Conservation, Facilities, and Horticulture teams on long-term care plans.
- Coordinate seasonal décor and displays with Festivals and Horticulture teams.
- Implement priority actions from the Miller House & Garden Conservation Management Plan.
Leadership and Staff Management
- Supervise and support assigned full-time and part-time staff.
- Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture.
- Complete annual site reports for each historic property.
- Support the Miller House Site Manager with community engagement and strategic initiatives.
- Represent Newfields Historic Properties to community stakeholders and partners.
- Build and sustain relationships with donors and preservation organizations.
- Participate in fundraising activities including grants, sponsorships, and individual giving.
Interpretation and Educational Programming
- Partner with Curatorial and Education teams to present engaging interpretation and programs.
- Lead development of interpretive strategies and educational initiatives.
- Commission and support scholarships related to historic properties and landscapes.
- Develop opportunities for earned revenue.
Community Engagement and Fundraising
- Represent Newfields Historic Properties to community stakeholders and partners.
- Build and sustain relationships with donors and preservation organizations.
- Participate in fundraising activities including grants, sponsorships, and individual giving.
Strategic Planning and Financial Oversight
- Provide strategic oversight for historic properties and landscapes.
- Develop and manage multi-year budgets.
- Monitor and maximize earned and contributed revenue.
To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Required Skills
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities
- Advanced knowledge of historic preservation best practices
- Strong financial and strategic planning acumen
Educations and/or Experience
- Minimum of eight years of experience in historic property management or cultural administration.
- Master’s degree in Historic Preservation, Architecture, Museum Studies, or related field required.
Physical Demands of Work Environment
This role requires standing, walking, climbing stairs, lifting up to 25 pounds, and working both indoors and outdoors. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.