National Liberty Museum Seeks Senior Director of Content and Interpretation
Senior Director of Content and Interpretation
“Liberty is about our rights to question everything.”—Ai Weiwei
ABOUT The National Liberty Museum (NLM), located near the cradle of American democracy — Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia — offers a contemporary perspective on liberty as a shared pursuit rather than an abstract concept.
At the National Liberty Museum, liberty is celebrated by actively challenging and inspiring people to think critically, to engage in civil discourse, and to carry forward the profound responsibility that comes with freedom. The museum creates opportunities for authentic interactions around the complexities of liberty while broadening perspectives, resolving conflict, and collaborating on solutions.
MISSION
The National Liberty Museum connects, educates, and inspires people to explore and advance the complex practice of liberty.
VISION
We are committed to building a society that values freedom of thought, civil discourse, respect for all people, and the essential pursuit of liberty.
THE POSITION
Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Senior Director of Content & Interpretation will influence strategic institutional planning and have programmatic oversight for content and exhibitions. As part of an ambitious institutional transformation program, this pivotal role will champion the execution of the interpretive plan and further define the Museum’s values, emphasizing heterodox thinking and diversity of thought. As lead “curator of ideas,” this role is crucial for integrating core content planning and leveraging opportunities for thought leadership, innovative partnerships, and resource development. This senior role requires grit and determination, but with that comes the reward of an unparalleled opportunity to build, mold, and guide the Museum from regional recognition to distinguished national institution, shaping its vision and impact from the ground up.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Influence and execute strategic and long-range institutional planning for exhibitions and content, encouraging educational outreach, and public engagement. Develop and execute a clear, concise, dynamic content framework supporting a culture of inquiry and diverse perspectives.
Directly supervise the Exhibitions Department to weave heterodox principles into annual programming, enhancing the Museum’s voice and influence, while fostering growth.
Collaborate with the Education Department to integrate content, themes, and programming into its curriculum and initiatives.
Lead collection and exhibition management, with a focus on content-driven storytelling rather than object-based displays. Envision, curate, and lead the creative team in realizing engaging exhibitions that encourage civil discourse, resonate with visitors, and promote the museum's foundational concepts, using provocative themes to garner meaningful and respectful conversations.
Oversee and curate the Museum’s changing exhibition program, including three temporary exhibitions annually, ensuring alignment with the interpretive plan and annual topic while embodying a commitment to exploring diverse viewpoints and challenging assumptions.
Implement aggressive online programmatic initiatives using multiple platforms to engage audiences, taking the institution beyond its physical space and making it truly national.
Drive museum initiatives that advance the mission and promote intellectual freedom, audience engagement, and financial sustainability, while collaborating on efforts to identify opportunities for funding and resource development.
Lead the core content division to foster creative collaboration and organizational growth through unique, innovative, and experimental exhibitions and programs that push boundaries, remain bold yet balanced, and embrace a digital-forward approach.
Engage with Liberty Council, Board-level committees, and other NLM advisory groups to enhance the institution’s knowledge base.
Partner with the Executive Leadership Team to champion change management, ensuring alignment with the Museum’s vision of fostering a culture of diversity of thought and perspective.
Lead by example to mentor and empower staff, promoting professional growth, broadened perspectives, and accountability. Foster genuine collaboration, coach future leaders, and embody civil discourse while supporting senior management decisions.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience with a demonstrated capacity for promoting and balancing diverse viewpoints and fostering a culture of open inquiry.
Proven leadership abilities in team management, recruitment, performance management, and staff development.
Demonstrates exceptional interpersonal skills to navigate disagreements, manage differing perspectives, and foster collaboration with professionalism, respect, and tact. Communicates effectively under pressure, ensuring clarity and building trust.
Thrives in dynamic or ambiguous environments, staying focused, composed, and solutions oriented. Approaches challenges with creativity and a growth mindset to deliver results in complex situations.
Demonstrated experience in conceptualizing and implementing innovative projects that challenge conventional thinking and creating supportive funding proposals and budgets.
Sophisticated knowledge of, and success in, utilizing online platforms to expand programmatic impact and reach new audiences.
Exceptional analytical and strategic thinking skills, with a strong ability to adapt to changing priorities while focusing on broad institutional goals.
Strong proficiency in written, verbal, visual, and electronic communication.
Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in history, philosophy, civics, public policy, journalism, or a related field that enriches one's capacity to engage with and promote diverse intellectual perspectives.
The National Liberty Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.
By February 4, send Meredith Handakas, Bryan & Jordan Consulting, your resume, cover letter, and three references using meredith@bryanandjordan.com.