Who We Are

Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is “that the future may learn from the past” through preserving and restoring 18^th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation. Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, The Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library. Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Griffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today’s evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.

About the Position

The principal responsibility of this position is to support the Office of the President in various administrative tasks and projects. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the operations of a cultural institution and contribute to its mission. Tasks may include assisting with correspondence, scheduling meetings, preparing documents and presentations, and conducting research on relevant topics. Additionally, this position may participate in meetings, take minutes, and help coordinate special events or initiatives.

Essential Functions:

1. Administrative Support: Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Chief of Staff, including managing schedules, organizing meetings, and handling correspondence.
2. Research Assistance: Conduct research on various topics relevant to the museum's mission, programs, and initiatives, and compile findings into concise reports or presentations.
3. Project Coordination: Assist in the coordination and implementation of special projects and initiatives led by the Chief of Staff, ensuring timely completion and adherence to objectives.
4. Communications Support: Aid in drafting, proofreading, and editing internal and external communications, including emails, memos, reports, and presentations, to maintain consistency and clarity in messaging.
5. Data Management: Assist in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, databases, and files related to the Chief of Staff's activities, ensuring confidentiality and accessibility as needed.
6. Event Support: Provide logistical support for events, meetings, and functions hosted or attended by the Chief of Staff, including scheduling, coordinating materials, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders.
7. Meeting Coordination: Facilitate the scheduling, preparation, and follow-up of meetings attended by the Chief of Staff, including agenda development, minutes-taking, and action item tracking.
8. Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments to support organizational goals and initiatives, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
9. Professional Development: Take advantage of learning opportunities within the museum, including attending meetings, workshops, and training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
10. Ad Hoc Support: Provide additional support and assistance to the Chief of Staff and the President & CEO's office as needed, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in addressing evolving priorities and challenges.

Required Education and Experience:

• Current enrollment in a bachelor's or master's degree program, preferably in museum studies, arts administration, business, or a related field.

Qualifications: 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with database management systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Demonstrated interest in museums, cultural institutions, or non-profit organizations.
• Proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and contribute to a collaborative team environment.