Executive Director of Gunston Hall 

Position Title: Executive Director
Reports to: Board of Regents
Location: Gunston Hall, Mason Neck, Virginia

 

Position Summary:

The Executive Director is responsible for realizing and fulfilling the mission of Gunston Hall and will play a leading role in positioning the institution as the “Home of American Rights” and as a centerof learning and engagement for all audiences.

The Executive Director (ED) reports to the First Regent of the Gunston Hall Board of Regents and is an Agency Head of the Commonwealth of  Virginia with accountability to the Secretary of Education. This leader is responsible for realizing and fulfilling the mission of the organization and upholding the values of authenticity, inclusiveness, stewardship, and civic engagement. In the performance of these duties, the Executive Director is expected at all times to maintain and model the highest standards of professionalism, financial stewardship, ethical behavior, and strategic leadership.

Working in close partnership with the Regents, the Executive Director will pursue the following priorities:
• Building a strong revenue base to ensure sustainable operations of all programming and educational initiatives as capital projects reach completion, to include strengthening Commonwealth support, private philanthropy and earned income.
• Developing internal systems and processes, including sound budgetary practices and strong financial controls, that will allow the organization to operate efficiently and effectively as its scale expands.
• Streamlining and operationalizing the organization’s vision to ensure resources are dedicated to the areas in which Gunston Hall’s impact is most pronounced.
• Maintaining a strong working relationship with the Virginia General Assembly, which provides Gunston Hall essential operating, maintenance, and capital funding.
• Increasing organizational visibility and leveraging Gunston Hall’s role on the VA250 Commission to broaden awareness and attract supporters.
• Nurturing a high-performing team characterized by high expectations, cross-functional collaboration, and a culture of mutual respect and accountability
• Reimagining Gunston Hall’s relationship with George Mason University and establishing additional partnerships.
• Continuing to build out the institution’s intergenerational programming.

Gunston Hall seeks a leader with high standards and sterling personal integrity. This leader will be able to articulate a strong, strategic vision and have the capacity to develop and implement organizational strategies, including the ability to prepare and present reports to the Board of Regents. A proven ability to develop and achieve goals, manage projects, implement budgets, and meet deadlines is essential.

Stewardship of the premises — including historic structures, contemporary buildings, and extensive grounds, trails, gardens, and landscapes — will also be an essential component of this role. The next leader will manage daily operations of a historic site that is open 300 days per year to the visiting public. They will lead, plan, and manage all capital and maintenance projects in support of the Campus Master Plan. They will also develop and implement land and facilities management policies and procedures necessary to ensure operational, administrative, and legal compliance with best practices. The Executive Director will oversee the development and implementation of programs and services that reach targeted audiences and which realize the full educational potential of Gunston Hall’s physical resources.

The leader will reside in the Executive Director’s residence on the property and will serve as “first responder” for all security and/or emergency situations on the site. This responsibility includes service as one of two “Duty Officers” for the property and requires, among other functions, being on, in proximity, and/or readily able to access the site when “On Duty” approximately 180 days annually. Travel is also required throughout the United States to promote and tell the story of Gunston Hall, engage new stakeholders, and visit members of the Board of Regents and the State Societies of the NSCDA.

They will accomplish the institutional vision of Gunston Hall through measurable outcomes and organizational accountability and will lead, inspire, supervise, and evaluate staff and volunteers to meet the institution’s goals and objectives. The Executive Director will initiate and develop new partnerships and collaborations with other organizations, constituent groups, and public agencies and will nurture existing relationships to help expand public service and meet institutional goals.

Additional responsibilities include:

Financial Management and Fund Development
• Propose and manage the institutional budget, including Commonwealth of Virginia appropriations and special funds, as well as Regents’ and other funds, with integrity and transparency to achieve annual goals and to provide for financial accountability and secure the long-term financial health of the organization.
• Supervise preparation of comprehensive and accurate financial statements.
• Design, develop, and implement aggressive fundraising efforts, including the active solicitation of funds, capital and membership campaigns, annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, public and private grants, and earned income (e.g., revenue derived from ticket sales, events, and functions) in order to meet institutional priorities and provide for long-term financial stability.

Governance
• Work collaboratively to ensure efficient governance by the Board of Regents.
• Provide for the timely and orderly management of all public and private governance functions and maintain a positive and productive relationship with the Board of Regents and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Education
• Facilitate development of education programs that fulfill the goal of telling more stories of more people in more places on the campus.
• Work with community advisors, other stakeholders and staff to expand the reach and impact of educational programs with contemporary audiences.
• Supervise expansion of collaborations with George Mason University and other educational institutions.

Brand Stewardship
• Lead brand implementation and ensure effective and consistent marketing, messaging and communications to all stakeholders internal and external to the institution.
• Strategically advocate on behalf of the institution with the Commonwealth of Virginia, Fairfax County, and other appropriate forums.
• Develop strategies and relationships in order to increase visitation.
• Positively present and represent Gunston Hall including service on appropriate boards and active volunteerism with local communities and constituent groups, public officials and agencies, media representatives, professional organizations and colleagues, and others.
• Serve as the primary external representative of the organization and possess strong communication skills to be the media spokesperson for the organization.

Candidate Profile:

Gunston Hall seeks an energetic and ethical leader with strong financial acumen, fundraising skills, team-building expertise, outstanding communication skills, and experience working with state governments and nonprofit boards to serve as its next Executive Director.

The Executive Director of Gunston Hall is a strong visionary leader who will be able to collaborate with the Board of Regents, staff, Commonwealth agencies, local communities, and constituencies to design and execute strategic plans. This leader will have exceptional organizational skills and data-management capabilities, a commitment to excellence and high standards, and a creative approach to leadership with a willingness to embrace new ideas and possibilities. The leader will have a strong background in nonprofit finance and an enthusiasm for promoting Gunston Hall’s work across a range of audiences. This person will be comfortable with unique organizational structures — including a hybrid, public-private operating framework and a large, geographically dispersed Board of Regents — and will be a thoughtful partner in co constructing an institutional vision. While a background as a historian is not essential, the leader must possess an evident passion for the mission of Gunston Hall.

Desired skills and attributes include:
• Executive-level knowledge of the principles of government and non-profit accounting and financial management systems, including the basic concepts of fund accounting and related financial statements.
• Proven success in developing and managing non-profit and/or governmental budgets to meet targeted goals.
• Demonstrated success as a supervisor in organizing, motivating, leading, and managing paid and volunteer staff for best results in a nonprofit organization and/or government agency.
• Documented understanding of the roles and potential of history organizations and historical sites in contemporary society.
• Demonstrated appreciation of the requirements and roles of scholarship in museums, historical interpretation, public programs, and education activities.
• Documented success in setting, organizing, and meeting organizational fundraising goals in a competitive marketplace.
• Demonstrated success in conceiving and implementing creative public programs by working with and through others.
• Practical experience in establishing, measuring, and analyzing program goals and objectives.
• Proven success in presenting and representing a cultural organization or agency to funders, constituents and their communities, peer organizations, governing boards, public officials and agencies, and representatives of the press.
• Passion for American history, combined with a talent for sharing it with a variety of audiences through innovative methodologies and formats.
• Working knowledge of 18th century American and Virginia history, especially as it relates to George Mason’s life and contributions to American governance.
• Exemplary written and oral communication, interpersonal, and diplomatic skills.
• Working knowledge of electronic information systems generally used in contemporary museums and non-profit cultural organizations.
• Working knowledge of education and advocacy before government bodies and the workings of the Commonwealth of Virginia administrative and budget processes.
• Demonstrated awareness of, and proven ability to take advantage of, the opportunities that continually evolving digital technologies and social media offer for expanding the impact of cultural organizations, history museums, and historic sites.

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as history, museum studies, public history, public administration, business or education is required. A master’s degree or PhD is preferred. 8-10 years of progressive, relevant experience in leadership roles, particularly in non-profit associations, museum or cultural organization settings is essential. Previous experience as CEO or Executive Director of a non-profit organization is preferred.

Gunston Hall offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

The base compensation range for this position annually is between $180,000–$200,000. The position is based in Mason Neck, Virginia, as the Executive Director will be expected to live on the Gunston Hall premises in a newly constructed, rent-subsidized Director’s Residence expected in mid-2026. Health, retirement, PTO, and other benefits are available.

How to apply

If you want to lead this dynamic organization, please confidentially submit a current resume and cover letter to Kittleman & Associates. The cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your passion for Gunston Hall’s vision and mission, as well as organizational impact in current or prior roles. The position will remain open until filled, but applicants are highly encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible to ensure full consideration.

Submit your application to Kittleman online here.

View the full Executive Director position package below.

Director of Facilities and Operations

Hiring Range: Commensurate with experience
Pay Band: 6
Agency: Gunston Hall
Location: Gunston Hall

George Mason’s Gunston Hall is seeking an enthusiastic, resourceful, innovative, and entrepreneurial leader to serve as Director of Facilities and Operations (DFO). The position will work closely with the Executive Director and serve on the Gunston Hall Leadership Team. In this capacity, this position is expected to actively participate in strategic planning, coordinated work with the Board of Regents of Gunston Hall and the Commonwealth of Virginia, and collaborative work with Gunston Hall’s dedicated team of staff and volunteers.

The DFO is also responsible for the maintenance and stewardship of the National Historic Landmark property; leading, coordinating, and managing all capital and maintenance projects; creating a safe and secure physical environment; maintaining the successful functioning of all mechanical, electrical, IT, and other facility systems; and ensuring the buildings and grounds are impeccably maintained.

These responsibilities include coordinating regular and routine repairs, documenting and maintaining appropriate reports and product information, diagnosing and initiating maintenance tasks, and serving as the primary organizational liaison to all associated service providers and vendors. The DFO must be self-motivated and able to schedule and complete numerous tasks with a minimum of supervision.

This is a full-time position and the DFO is expected to be on-call in the event of emergencies. Some early mornings, evening, and weekend work in support of project management, site stewardship, and events is also expected.

An individual must also be passionate about Gunston Hall’s mission and its organizational commitment to being idea-centered and family-focused. The DFO should bring a positive attitude to their work and to that of their colleagues, and be an agent for good-will within the organization and the community. They should be excited to help others make a difference in the community by providing leadership to all those we serve and by ensuring Gunston Hall’s campus is accessible, safe, inspiring, and engaging. Finally, the DFO should be an enthusiastic and willing learner, one that is committed to their own continual development and growth, and one who is equally passionate by helping ensure the happiness and success of their colleagues at Gunston Hall.

Gunston Hall is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives and a wide range of experiences to the workplace are encouraged to apply.

Compensation will be based on qualifications. Performance will be evaluated based on the achievement of collaboratively determined team and personal goals specific to the requirements of the position.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the Executive Director to plan and implement strategic goals related to facilities including budget planning and resource allocation.
• Supervise Curator, Horticulturist, Archaeologist, and Gardener.
• Develop, implement, and manage departmental budget.
• Lead, plan, and manage all Capital and maintenance projects on the campus including coordinated work with the Board of Regents of Gunston Hall (BRGHI), the COVA, architects and engineers, contractors, staff and volunteers, guests, and the local community.
• Monitor Gunston Hall’s physical plant including but not limited to HVAC, plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems, IT, utility usage, and structure and roofing.
• Conduct regular inspections of the buildings and grounds to determine maintenance needs and make recommendations for improvements and repairs.
• Work closely with the COVA to complete and provide required reports and documentation, and to maintain accurate and current files.
• Develop and implement a 5 and 10 year plan for building maintenance including preservation plans for all historic structures in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s standards and professional best practice.
• Plan and coordinate all building and system inspections and certifications.
• Create and disseminate information about facilities and associated projects and initiatives to staff and volunteers to ensure a continuity of operations during project implementation.
• Help ensure the security and safety of people and facilities including serving as a first responder in the event of an emergency, the custodian of keys and locks, and the primary liaison with all security and fire system technicians.
• Monitor, implement, and update as needed Gunston Hall’s Emergency Response Plan and serve as the organization’s Emergency Operations Coordinator.
• Provide staff and volunteers with appropriate training including but not limited to OSHA and other applicable safety training.
• Serve as the Information Technology manager and ensure associated systems are functioning at maximum efficiency, including the recommendation and planning of system enhancements and updates.
• Build strong relationships with Gunston Hall’s broad constituencies including but not limited to the BRGHI, COVA, members, donors, corporate institutions, friends, peer institutions, service providers, and vendors.
• Maintain knowledge and expertise of the American Alliance of Museums’ standards and applicable best practices in the fields of historic preservation, cultural resource management, and facility management.
• Work collaboratively with the Gunston Hall team to facilitate a positive work environment and guest experience.
• Actively pursue professional development opportunities in furtherance of expertise and career advancement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Progressive experience in leadership and management including strategic thinking, budget and resource planning, team-building, administration, and project management.
• Experience creating, supporting, and sustaining an environment in which a unified team works for organizational excellence.
• A minimum of 5 years progressive experience in physical plant operations and facility management.
• Experience with historic sites, museums, cultural organizations, and/or parks.
• Expertise in the administration of a multi-functional and diverse agency.
• Excellent people and communications skills.
• Experience providing and supporting exemplary guest service.
• A commitment to entrepreneurial and innovative initiatives.
• Exceptional organizational skills.
• Self-motivation and a positive attitude.
• Physical requirements include prolonged sitting and standing; must be able to balance, bend, climb, crouch, reach, and twist; must have dexterity to operate equipment; must be able to lift 30 pounds; and must exhibit ability to monitor and maintain sites and systems throughout the campus and to meet the daily demands of the position.

Additional Considerations

Experience with historic sites, museums, cultural organizations, and/or parks.
Expertise in the administration of a multi-functional and diverse agency.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

State employees who have been affected by Policy 1.3 Layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card) must submit the card BEFORE the closing date for this position. The card may be scanned and attached to the application or faxed to (804) 371-7401. Please include your name and the position number of the fax cover sheet. AMERICORPS, PEACE CORPS, AND OTHER NATIONAL SERVICE ALUMNI ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities during the application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. AMERICORPS, PEACE CORPS, AND OTHER NATIONAL SERVICE ALUMNI ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. Please call 804-225-2131 for assistance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Contact Information
Name: Debbie Wyatt-Smith
Phone: 804-262-6414
Email: [email protected]

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer

Horticulturist

Position Title: Horticulturist
Location: Gunston Hall, Mason Neck, Virginia
Length of Appointment: Year Round
Status: Exempt-Full Time
Compensation: $55-65,000
Benefits: Eligible for medical (including dental and vision), retirement, life insurance, access to an employee assistance program, professional development days, and paid vacation and sick days.

Gardener

Position Title: Gardener
Location: Gunston Hall, Mason Neck, Virginia
Length of Appointment: Year Round
Status: Wage (Hourly)
Compensation: $16-$22/hour

Job Duties
Incumbent is responsible for cultivating gardens with appropriate plants; planting and caring for them with watering, weeding, pruning, and pest and weed control. The Gardener works in concert with the Facilities Director to select cultivars and plant them at the appropriate time and in the right locations. Incumbent prunes and fertilizes shrubs and assists with grounds maintenance. Gardeners also interpret the Gunston Hall gardens to the public as needed.

The mission of George Mason’s Gunston Hall is to stimulate the exploration and understanding of principles expressed by George Mason in the 1776 Virginia Declaration of Rights.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of basic horticultural practices.
• Experience with planting and maintaining flower or vegetable gardens.
• Working knowledge of shrub and small tree care.
• Ability to apply pesticides and herbicides.

Additional Considerations

• Knowledge of historic plants and cultivation practices.
• Interest and/or experience in interpreting the historic landscape or gardens for the
  public.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

n/a

Contact Information

Name: Debbie Wyatt-Smith

Phone: 804-292-6414

Email: [email protected]

 

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Development Manager

Position Title: Development Manager
Reporting Supervisor: Executive Director
Location: Gunston Hall, Mason Neck, Virginia
Length of Appointment: Year Round
Status: Exempt-Full Time
Compensation: Based on Qualifications
Benefits: Eligible for medical (including dental and vision), retirement, life insurance, access to an employee assistance program, professional development days, and paid vacation and sick days.

Purpose:

George Mason’s Gunston Hall is seeking an aspirational, energetic, and collaborative individual to serve as the organization’s full-time Development Manager. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Manager is responsible for all aspects of development and fundraising at Gunston Hall. This work includes cultivating and soliciting gifts, stewarding relationships with donors and prospects, administrative support of all development department functions, and coordinating strategic fundraising initiatives. In performing these duties, the Development Manager is expected to demonstrate a commitment to relationships, organization, accuracy, confidentiality, detail, the ability to meet deadlines, the ability to work as part of a high functioning team, exemplary communication and diplomatic skills, and a passion for the mission of Gunston Hall.

Additionally, Gunston Hall is currently implementing a comprehensive fundraising campaign. Guided by the theme of Forever Revolutionary!, this campaign will directly support the realization of key elements of our Campus Master Plan, enhance our ability to fulfill our mission, and advance our brand promise of being The Home of American Rights. The Development Manager, while working closely with the Campaign Leadership Committee, will be an active leader and participant in this Campaign.

To be successful in this position, the Development Manager must value authenticity, inclusiveness, stewardship, and civic engagement. The Development Manager should bring a positive attitude to their work and promote good will and wellness within the organization. Finally, the Development Manager should be an enthusiastic and willing learner, one who is committed to their own development and growth, and one who is passionate about facilitating the success of their colleagues.

Compensation will be based on qualifications. Performance will be evaluated based on the achievement of team and individual goals specific to the requirements of the position.

Additional benefits of employment at Gunston Hall include:

• The opportunity to collaborate with a creative team of individuals committed to the organization, our mission, and to each other’s success.
• Opportunities to experience 554 acres along the Potomac River.
• An organizational commitment to wellness and personal fulfillment.
• Access to comprehensive professional development programs.
• The ability to create flexible work experiences.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support and participate in the organization’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, annual giving solicitations, and associated activities.
• Process donations and prepare acknowledgement letters and other correspondence.
• Gather and maintain foundation, corporation, and individual donor files.
• Create regular fundraising reports and other database reports as needed.
• Continually update and correct database records.
• Conduct research and write donor profiles on prospective corporate, foundation, individual, and other potential donors.
• Manage Gunston Hall’s sponsorship and membership program.
• Coordinate production and mailing of annual appeal letters, the Annual Report, donor recognition signage and associated materials.
• Assist with tasks related to grant proposals and reports.
• Assist with event planning, execution and follow-up including the maintenance of guest lists, gathering and preparation of registration materials, sponsorship fulfillment, and other duties as assigned for fund-raising events.
• Handle administrative details associated with the Board of Regents Development Committee meetings (i.e. prepare and distribute notices, agendas, minutes, etc.).
• Support strong relationships with all donors, members, prospects, and stakeholders.
• Administrative and other duties as assigned.

Other Responsibilities:

• Support strong relationships with members of the Gunston Hall Board of Regents; The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA); and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Serve as a representative of the organization and articulate Gunston Hall’s mission and goals for a wide range of audiences.

We are seeking an individual with the following attributes:

• Demonstrated success in diverse and vibrant settings.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational, and data management skills.
• Exemplary communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to recognize and navigate donor needs and sensitivities.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work, and to work independently or as a unified team for organizational excellence.
• Ability to achieve goals, manage projects, and meet targeted deadlines.
• Experience creating comprehensive, usable, and data driven reports.
• Experience providing and supporting exemplary guest service.
• A positive attitude, energetic personality, motivational spirit, and creatively open mind.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
• A commitment to excellence.

Qualifications for this position include:

• A Bachelor’s degree and a record of progressive experience within a non-profit development office and/or cultural organization, museum, or historic site is preferred.
• Experience with Donor Perfect or comparable fundraising software is preferred.
• Experience with public-private partnerships is preferred.
• A passion for the mission of Gunston Hall is preferred.

About George Mason’s Gunston Hall:

The mission of Gunston Hall is to stimulate the exploration and understanding of principles expressed by George Mason in the 1776 Virginia Declaration of Rights. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a National Historic Landmark, Gunston Hall was built by George Mason from 1755-1759. Today, the site includes Gunston Hall; reconstructed outbuildings; a visitor center, museum, event facility, and museum shop; and 554 acres of diverse landscape situated along the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia. For more information, please visit www.gunstonhall.org.

Application Process:
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Mark S. Ingrao, CCP, CAE, Interim Executive Director, at [email protected].

Gunston Hall is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion. Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives and a wide range of experiences to the workplace are encouraged to apply.