Director, Museum Operations

Job Summary

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Director, Museum Operations to join to join the RISD Museum.

The Director of Museum Operations leads and directs key operational functions of the RISD Museum in support of annual and strategic initiatives. Reporting to the Museum Director, this role oversees facilities, security, events management, and long-range planning. The position is also responsible for driving revenue generation strategies and overseeing the development of a museum store. This role acts as a senior liaison between the Museum and RISD central administrative offices.

We seek a culturally competent candidate who will thrive in a campus environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

Essential Functions:

Operational Planning and Revenue Generation:

• Lead long-range planning efforts for the museum's operations and facilities.

• Work collaboratively with revenue-generating teams to develop holistic strategies for increasing museum income.

• Oversee the planning and implementation of retail opportunities.

Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response Planning:

• Lead the development, implementation, and regular updating of the museum's Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response Plan.

• Coordinate with relevant departments and external agencies to ensure comprehensive emergency preparedness.

• Conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities specific to the museum's facilities and collections.

• With the Security Manager, establish emergency procedures for various scenarios, including natural disasters, security threats, and other potential crises.

• Develop and oversee training programs for staff on emergency protocols and procedures.

• Organize and lead regular emergency drills and exercises to test the plan's effectiveness.

• Ensure proper documentation and communication of emergency procedures throughout the organization.

• Collaborate with local emergency services to align museum plans with community-wide disaster response efforts.

• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of emergency supplies and equipment.

• Stay informed about best practices in museum emergency preparedness and incorporate them into the museum's plans.

Facilities Management:

• Advise the Museum's Facilities Manager on physical plant maintenance and improvements.

• Review and approve long-range capital projects and facilities improvement plans.

• Liaise with RISD Facilities staff on museum facility needs.

• Ensure regular review of business continuity plans.

Security Oversight:

• Supervise the Museum's Security Manager to ensure safety and security for staff, visitors, and collections.

• Monitor security staffing levels, plans, and training programs.

• Participate in union contract negotiations.

Events Coordination:

• Oversee Museum Event Planner to ensure smooth execution of internal and external events.

• Facilitate partnerships with RISD Conference and Events Services for institutional events.

Business Operations:

• Direct the Business Operations Coordinator on cross-museum initiatives.

• Liaise with IT and other RISD departments on museum-wide projects.

HR Liaison:

• Act as a key liaison between the Museum and RISD's central Human Resources department.

• Collaborate with HR on museum staff workforce planning, recruitment, and retention strategies.

• Advise department managers on HR policies, procedures, and best practices.

• Coordinate with HR on performance management processes, including annual reviews and goal-setting.

• Work with HR to develop and implement staff training and professional development programs.

• Assist in resolving complex employee relations issues in coordination with HR.

• Ensure compliance with labo