The GLBT Historical Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that collects, preserves, exhibits and makes accessible to the public materials and knowledge to support and promote understanding of LGBTQ history, culture, and arts in all their diversity. Founded in 1985, we are recognized internationally as a leader in the field of LGBTQ public history. We steward and make accessible one of the world’s largest repositories of LGBT historical materials through our archives and operate the nation’s first museum of LGBT History and Culture in San Francisco.

 POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Director of Archives and Special Collections is a key leadership position within our organization, pivotal in overseeing all aspects of the archives department’s operations and strategic direction. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, supervising the Managing Reference Archivist, and overseeing the work of an Archivist and volunteers, this role requires a dynamic individual with a strong background in archival practice, staff and facility management, community engagement, and fundraising, particularly in grant writing. The position will join the Society during an exciting moment of expansion and will play an important role in planning and growth management.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

Leadership: 

• Develop and execute a strategic vision, plan, and evaluation for all aspects of archival operations and public services, aligned with the organization's mission and goals.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and guidance to staff and volunteers to ensure the
• archives’ success and growth. Provide counsel and support to other Society programs.
• Serve as a member of the Society’s leadership team and engage with Board activities.
• Develop and manage the archives department's budget.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and equity within the archives team and its programming.  

Collections and Digital Archives:

• Manage archival collection development, including strategic guidance on collections policies, and serve as the lead point of contact for archival materials donors.  
• Oversee collection management activities and perform archival tasks, including accessioning, processing, preservation work, writing finding aids, and managing staff undertaking related activities.
• Monitor the physical condition of archival facilities and materials in all formats, and address associated risks. Oversee facilities needs as necessary and implement emergency preparedness plans. Provide strategic leadership in archival expansion and facilities projects.  
• Lead the digital archives program, including overseeing the implementation of new tools and technologies, digitizing materials, and building digital resources.

Reference Services and Outreach:  

• Manage reference staff, oversee reading room policies and procedures, and provide strategic guidance related to reproduction and licensing requests and other collection use.
• Provide reference support and assist patrons as needed, in coordination with reference staff.  
• In partnership with staff, oversee the development and implementation of a diverse range of public programs, events, and educational initiatives to engage diverse audiences and highlight the collections and archival services.
• Establish and expand partnerships with educational institutions, professional organizations, corporate and community groups, and cultural institutions to grow the archives’ reach and impact.

Fundraising and Public Relations:

• Write archives-related grant proposals and manage funding contracts, including reporting. Seek out possible funding sources.
• In partnership with the Director of Development and Executive Director, cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding partners to sustain and grow the archives’ programs, initiatives, and capital needs. Explore and implement innovative revenue streams to support the archive’s operations and expansion.
•  Partner with Marketing staff to ensure archival activities are promoted publicly. Serve as a spokesperson for the archives to the public, media, and stakeholders. Represent the organization at appropriate speaking engagements, collaborations, and partnerships.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive responsibility in an archives and special collections environment, historical institution, or similar cultural/non-profit organization, including responsibilities for staff management and archival practice required.
• Masters in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited program or related field preferred.
• Proven track record in successful fundraising, grant writing, reporting, managing government contracts, and donor relations.
• Experience working with diverse communities is required; knowledge of LGBTQ+ history and culture is preferred.
• Commitment to and proven track record in advancing justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in all aspects of archival services and organizational practices.
• Proficiency in budget management with at least three years of experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in archival collections management and applying processing standards, and knowledge of collections management systems, digital asset management systems, and online archival access systems.
• Understanding of and ability to provide guidance about privacy, confidentiality, copyright, and use policies associated with archival materials.
• Excellent leadership, supervision, and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire staff, volunteers, interns, and stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, including communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Evidence of professional engagement at local, state, or national levels.  
• Strong computer skills: Windows, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), and Google Suite are required.