Description
Position Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM), responsible for the strategic leadership, operational management, and community engagement of the organization. This role requires a visionary leader with a passion for nature, art, and education, who can guide the museum through its next phase of growth and impact.
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising & Development
Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
Lead grant writing efforts and major fundraising campaigns.
Expand membership and volunteer programs to deepen community support.
Strategic Leadership
Develop and implement a long-term strategic plan aligned with CalNAM’s mission and values.
Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set institutional priorities and evaluate progress.
Lead organizational change and innovation, especially in programming, outreach, and fundraising.
Adapt to evolving trends in art, nature, and the environment.
Financial Management
Oversee the museum’s budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.
Ensure responsible stewardship of resources and compliance with organizational policies and relevant regulations.
Operational Oversight
Supervise all museum departments including curatorial, education, visitor services, development, and marketing.
Oversee the development, selection, and installation of exhibitions.
Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and financial standards.
Oversee facilities management and capital improvements.
Community Engagement
Serve as the public face of CalNAM, representing the museum in media, civic, and cultural forums.
Build partnerships with local schools, nonprofits, and government agencies.
Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all museum activities.
Board Relations
Provide timely and transparent communication to the Board.
Support Board recruitment and development.
Prepare reports and materials for Board meetings and committees.
Personnel Management
Supervise, mentor, and support museum staff and volunteers.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages professional growth and organizational effectiveness.
Permanent Collection Maintenance and Growth
Oversee the care, documentation, and expansion of the museum’s permanent collection.
Ensure proper conservation practices and strategic acquisitions that support the museum’s mission.
Other
Perform other duties as assigned.
California Nature Art Museum
The California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM) embodies its mission to inspire stewardship of nature through art and education. It recognizes that artists play a vital role in the protection of wild places, capturing beauty and sharing it with community members who may have few opportunities to experience wilderness.
CalNAM opened to the public in 2000 as the Wildling Art Museum, in a small facility in Los Olivos, CA. In 2013 it moved to its current location on Mission Drive in Solvang, CA and in 2024 the museum changed its name to the California Nature Art Museum to better communicate its purpose.
In its 25 years the Museum has mounted over 200 exhibitions (https://www.calnatureartmuseum.org/past-art-exhibits). A permanent exhibit, launched in 2025, is Lulu Hyggelig by internationally renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Dambo’s dedicated followers bring a new audience to CalNAM. The Museum greets visitors from around the world as well as locals from Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo Counties. In addition to art and activities, they enjoy the museum store which features local artists, gifts, toys, books, and an excellent selection of California souvenirs. Many are drawn to Solvang as the Danish capital of America, to the beauty of the region, and to CalNAM, inspiring a love of nature.
Requirements
Qualifications
10+ years nonprofit, cultural, or educational experience required. Museum experience preferred.
Proven leadership experience in a nonprofit, cultural, or educational institution.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, strategic planning, and team management.
Strong financial acumen and operational oversight skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Passion for art, nature, and community service.
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
Preferred Attributes
Familiarity with museum accreditation standards and best practices.
Experience working with artists, educators, and volunteers.
Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
