HERITAGE MANAGER I

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

About The Position

The Division of Arkansas Heritage is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as Director of the Old State House Museum, one of the most iconic historic structures in Arkansas. Constructed in 1836, the Old State House stands as a cornerstone of our state's history and a vital cultural asset. The Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and stewardship of the Old State House Museum. This includes ensuring the preservation and maintenance of the historic facility, guiding daily operations, and advancing the museum's mission to collect, interpret, and present Arkansas history.

Requirements

Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to manage complex heritage programs.
Ability to lead large teams, build consensus, and implement policy changes effectively.
Experience in developing and executing long-term strategic initiatives.
Understanding of historical preservation practices, cultural programming, and museum administration.
Familiarity with state and federal historic preservation laws, grant programs, and funding processes.
Experience in public speaking, media relations, and legislative advocacy.
Proficiency in budget management, grant writing, and financial oversight.
Strong project management skills to coordinate multiple programs, contracts, and funding sources.
Excellent oral and written communication skills to develop reports, presentations, and policy recommendations.
Ability to translate complex heritage policies and preservation guidelines into accessible information for public use.
Ability to interpret statistical data and performance metrics to assess program success.
At least three years of experience in historic preservation, heritage management, museum administration, public policy, or a related field, including one year in a leadership role.

Responsibilities

Provide day-to-day leadership and supervision of museum staff
Oversee the care, preservation, and maintenance of the historic building and grounds
Lead exhibit development and event planning, ensuring high-quality public programming
Direct the collection, preservation, and interpretation of historical artifacts related to Arkansas history
Build and maintain strong partnerships with community organizations, stakeholders, and cultural institutions
Promote the museum and Arkansas heritage through outreach, collaboration, and public engagement
Coordinate and evaluate all programs to ensure alignment with organizational goals and performance standards
Develop, implement, and monitor short- and long-term strategic plans and initiatives
Lead the development and execution of state heritage programs, policies, and preservation strategies.
Oversee heritage site management, conservation efforts, and cultural programs.
Ensure compliance with state and federal historic preservation laws, grant requirements, and best practices.
Develop and implement long-term plans for historical site maintenance, programming, and community outreach.
Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, making recommendations for continuous improvement.
Assist in developing and managing program budgets, ensuring responsible fiscal stewardship.
Identify and secure grants and external funding sources for heritage projects and cultural programs.
Oversee financial reports, ensuring compliance with state fiscal policies.
Represent the agency at public meetings, legislative sessions, and historical preservation conferences.
Provide leadership and mentorship to a small to medium sized heritage program staff and site managers.
Assist in drafting and implementing policies related to heritage conservation and cultural resource management.
Ensure programs align with Arkansas heritage laws, federal guidelines, and best practices in historical preservation.