Director, Museum Programming

How You’ll Contribute

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp), which will be completed in 2026. The public-facing portion of this renovation will be the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration. Components of the new museum will include a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard.

This position sits within the Campus and Experiences division, leading the creation of ticketed and free experiences at the Museum of Exploration that engage local and global audiences, showcase National Geographic Explorers, and highlight the Museum’s exhibitions and collections. In addition to enriching the on-campus guest experience, the division currently manages two other Public Programming business lines: the National Geographic Live touring speaker series, which brings Explorer-led storytelling to performing arts venues worldwide, and the Speakers Bureau, which provides compelling speakers for private engagements around the globe. These programs are designed to advance the Society’s mission by deepening public understanding of science, exploration, and storytelling, while driving sustainable revenue for the organization.

The Director will report to the Senior Director, National Geographic Live and is responsible for the development, oversight, and execution of all Museum of Exploration Public Programming experiences. The Director will lead a team of programming professionals, including the Manager, Family & Educational Programming, and Manager, Entertainment Programming, to deliver innovative and engaging content across various platforms and formats.

Your Impact

Your Impact

Responsibilities Include:

Program Development & Curation (40%)

• Oversee the conceptualization, design, and continuous refinement of a comprehensive suite of public programs for the Museum of Exploration, including but not limited to: lectures, workshops, tours, family days, performances, film screenings, and community festivals.

• Identify and analyze trends in museum education, public engagement, and cultural programming to inform innovative program development.

• Identify and analyze current and upcoming trends and gaps within the Washington D.C. cultural attraction market to inform program development and strategy.

• Work closely with Exhibitions, Education, and Explorer Elevation departments to ensure programs are age appropriate, content-rich, and complement museum offerings.

• Collaborate with the Advancement team to identify and support event sponsorship opportunities, including providing program concepts, assets, and logistics support that align with sponsor goals and mission impact.

• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with Explorers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance program offerings.

• Ensure programs are accessible, inclusive, and reflect the diverse interests of the target audience.
   

Operational Oversight: (30%)

• Develop and manage the annual Museum Public Programming budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of resources.

• Implement robust project management methodologies to ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

• Develop and implement departmental processes and best practices specific to program planning, production, and evaluation, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and alignment across all Public Programming initiatives.

• Oversee seamless execution of all Museum of Exploration public programs, coordinating with operations, facilities, and other relevant departments.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, procedures, and safety regulations.

Team Leadership & Management: (20%)

• Build a strong team culture, focused on creativity, teamwork, innovation, and service of the overall National Geographic mission

• Recruit, train, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of public programming professionals, including the Manager, Family & Educational Programing as well as the Manager, Entertainment Programming, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.