Summary
Description
About the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum (NMHFM), housed in the historic 25,000-square-foot 1899 Leadville High School building, is the nation’s premier institution dedicated to honoring the past, present, and future of mining. We also operate the historic Matchless Mine, a nationally designated historic site. Our mission is to educate the public about mining and its people, promote understanding of its central role in shaping modern society, and inspire curiosity about mining’s evolving future.
The Museum welcomes approximately 25,000 visitors annually and stewards a collection of about 25,000 objects. Through immersive exhibits, preserved collections, archives, and the Matchless Mine site, the NMHFM explores the rich tapestry of mining history while highlighting its technological, economic, and cultural impacts.
The Opportunity
The NMHFM seeks a dynamic and visionary President & CEO to lead the Museum into its next chapter of growth and relevance. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors and overseeing a senior team of five, including the VP of Curatorial, VP of Education, Executive Assistant, Development Officer, and VP of Operations, the President & CEO will be responsible for driving strategic initiatives focused on institutional excellence and long-term sustainability.
Key ResponsibilitiesMuseum Leadership & Strategy
- Lead and implement strategic goals that reflect the institution’s mission, values, and future vision as laid out in the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan.
- Guide the organization toward American Alliance of Museums (AAM) accreditation through excellence in collections management, education, and curatorial practices.
- Ensure the seamless integration of the Matchless Mine and Hall of Fame with the Museum’s broader storytelling and visitor experience.
Collections & Preservation
- Advance and refine collections management policies, conservation protocols, and digital access initiatives to safeguard and share rare and important artifacts.
- Oversee preservation planning for both the Museum and the historic Matchless Mine site, including building evaluation, ADA compliance, and environmental control improvements.
Exhibits & Interpretation
- Drive a collaborative, stakeholder-driven exhibit strategy in conjunction with the VP of Curatorial that aligns with the NMHFM’s values of Awareness, Curiosity, Engagement, and Stewardship.Lead the reworking of existing exhibits, integration of Hall of Fame narratives, and the development of new interactive and educational displays.
Education & Community Engagement
- Assist in implementing a forward-thinking educational philosophy and curriculum centered on mining’s societal and environmental dimensions.
- Foster strong partnerships with local schools and underserved communities to expand reach and impact in conjunction with the VP of Education.
Operations & Organizational Development
- Manage a $1.5M annual operating budget and steward financial sustainability through sound operational practices and team leadership.
- Lead infrastructure and emergency preparedness planning, safety training, financial audits, and site maintenance.
- Cultivate staff growth through a robust career development framework aligned with strategic goals.
Archives & Digital Initiatives
- Expand national access to NMHFM’s collections through digitization efforts, hosting finding aids, and potential digital exhibition spaces.
- Champion innovation in archival practices and digital engagement tools.
Qualifications
- Proven senior leadership experience in a museum, historic site, or cultural institution including personnel and budget management.
- Deep expertise in one or more of the following areas: collections management, education, historic preservation, curatorial practices, museum operations, or archives with an MA or PhD in Museum Studies, History, or Public History or equivalent experience.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-functional teams and large-scale projects.
- Successful record of leading strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement.
- Passion for mining history, heritage preservation, and educational innovation.Excellent communicator, collaborator, and advocate.
Living in Leadville, Colorado
Nestled at 10,152 feet above sea level, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America and offers a truly unique mountain lifestyle. Steeped in mining history and surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges, Leadville boasts year-round recreation opportunities—skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and more.
Housing & Community: Housing can be expensive and limited in availability. However, the community is close-knit and values its history and local culture. The town includes a mix of historic buildings, small businesses, and a developing arts scene. While the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum does not provide housing or a housing stipend, we will support the candidate in finding a place to live.
Tourism: Leadville draws visitors from across the country for its history, scenery, and legendary events like the Leadville Trail 100 races. The NMHFM and Matchless Mine are two of its crown jewels.
Join us!
Benefits & Compensation: The starting salary for this position is $110,000, with final compensation commensurate with experience. Benefits include a 3% employer match into a SIMPLE IRA and 80% employer coverage of medical insurance through an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA). The position also offers generous paid time off, paid sick time, and paid holidays.
How to Apply: Please email your cover letter and resume as a single PDF attachment to development@mininghalloffame.org. The position is open until filled, and applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are received. For best consideration, apply by May 24, 2025.
