The McFaddin-Ward House was built in 1906 in the Beaux-Arts Colonial style. The immaculate preservation of its buildings and furnishings reflects the lifestyle of the prominent family who lived in the house for 75 years. The 12,800 sq. ft main house serves as the city’s cultural and historic center through house tours, educational programs, special community events, monthly lecture series, a curatorial intern program, children’s summer camp, and more. Behind the home is a two-story carriage house with household staff quarters, autos, a gymnasium, hayloft, and horse stalls. A nationally recognized collections building sits behind the carriage house, and a Visitor Center completes the 5-acre campus. Uniquely, all furnishings are original to the home. 

The McFaddin-Ward House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a registered Texas Historical Landmark. 

Overview:                                                                  

Re-accredited by the American Alliance of Museums in 2020, the museum has successfully met the goals of its three-year strategic plan adopted in April 2023. As such, the museum is poised to launch a new institutional plan highlighting creative educational opportunities, broader community engagement, and extended media growth. The Executive Director will inspire the board and staff to develop and support innovative programming. The Director reports to a small, dedicated Board of Directors representing the McFaddin Family and various community arts and history groups. Unlike most museums, the family foundation fully funds the annual budget, which allows the Executive Director to focus on meeting short and long-term goals without the distraction of having to raise funds. 

A Successful Executive Director Will Succeed: 

• By raising awareness of the McFaddin-Ward House nationally in public history and tourism.
• Through the development and implementation of the new institutional plan.
• Through oversight and growth of the popular lecture series, adult social and educational programs, children’s programs, online learning initiatives, and curated special exhibits consistent with the museum’s mission.
•  Through the innovative development of new tours and programs.
• By growing strategic local, state, and national partnerships, including universities, community groups, and institutions.
• By representing the museum in the community to foster inclusion and engagement.
• Through oversight of the budget, its preparation, and strategic financial forecasting.
• By providing expertise in site development.
• With attention to the care and maintenance of the historic site’s physical plant. 
• By providing supportive, approachable leadership to a talented staff.
• Through a strong relationship with an effective Board of Directors.
• Through a strong understanding of decorative arts, a strong appreciation of the collection, and a desire to showcase the collection and archives to the community, visitors, and other history professionals. 

The Successful Candidate Will: 

• Understand and feel inspired by the museum’s Mission and Vision Statements and its goals, objectives, and policies.
• Know and understand the optimum maintenance requirements for all structures on the five-acre campus.
• Know and understand the optimum maintenance requirements for the lawns and gardens situated on the five-acre campus.
• Inspire and guide the museum staff in meeting the mission of the museum.
• Bring excellent attention to detail. 
•  Be a diplomatic and effective communicator and enjoy engaging with others in person and through writing.
• Have experience with and knowledge of applicable human resources rules and regulations.  
• Be willing to work a flexible schedule that may include evenings and weekends.
• Understand audience building and the importance of an effective social media presence.
• Possess a global perspective with the ability to apply innovative approaches to interdisciplinary programming in a historic setting. 

Staffing/Funding:

• Currently-26 employees
• A budget of $1,500,000.00 
• Funded by the Mamie McFaddin-Ward Heritage Foundation 

Minimum Requirements:  

• Undergraduate degree related to the competencies required. An advanced degree is preferred. 
• At least five years of historic site experience, most of which are on the leadership team.

Salary range is $90,000 – $100,000. Please send your cover letter, resume, and three references to both Meredith Handakas ([email protected]) and David Crosson ([email protected]) by June 7, 2024.