What are the responsibilities and job description for the Museum Director position at UKRAINIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 2249 W. Superior Chicago, IL 60612?
Some roles manage institutions. Others shape their trajectory.
Position Announcement: Executive Director
Location: 2249 W. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60612
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Opening Date: May 1, 2026
The Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth, visibility, and impact.
Founded in 1952, the Museum is one of the largest and oldest ethnic museums in the United States, dedicated to preserving and sharing the Ukrainian immigrant experience and its contribution to Chicago’s cultural landscape. Located in Ukrainian Village, the Museum houses extensive ethnographic, fine art, historical, library, and archival collections, and offers dynamic exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programming.
Why This Role Is Exciting
This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally significant cultural institution at a moment of momentum and global relevance.
The Executive Director will shape the future of the Museum-strengthening its foundation while expanding its reach, visibility, and long-term sustainability. With renewed global attention on Ukraine and its cultural identity, the Museum is uniquely positioned to amplify its voice and deepen engagement with audiences locally, nationally, and internationally.
This role offers the chance to lead across all dimensions of the organization-strategy, fundraising, operations, programming, and community engagement-while elevating the Museum’s role as a cultural anchor in Chicago and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction and advance the Museum’s mission
- Oversee all daily operations, including finance, HR, fundraising, marketing, programming, exhibitions, and collections
- Lead fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and development initiatives with Board committees
- Identify, apply for, and manage grants and grant-funded projects
- Direct marketing and communications, including social media and public relations
- Supervise staff, interns, and volunteers, including performance management and evaluations
- Ensure the safety, security, and preservation of the Museum’s building and collections
- Oversee collections care, cataloging, and acquisition planning in collaboration with staff and Board committees
- Support exhibition planning and long-term program development
- Report regularly to the Board on operations, finances, and fundraising progress
Qualifications
- Graduate degree in art history, museum studies, nonprofit management, or related field
- 5 years of senior leadership experience in a museum or nonprofit organization
- Knowledge of museum best practices and nonprofit operations
- Familiarity with Ukrainian art, history, and culture (diaspora and/or Ukraine preferred)
- Proven leadership, strategic planning, and organizational management skills
- Experience working with Boards of Directors and diverse stakeholders
- Strong communication, writing, and public speaking skills
- Ability to manage budgets, staff, and complex organizational systems
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends as needed
- Fluency in English required; Ukrainian language skills preferred
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Apply at: ukrainiannationalmuseum.org/careers