The Medieval Academy of America invites applications to serve as Executive Director of the world’s largest scholarly organization devoted to the study of the Middle Ages. The Executive Director is appointed for a five-year term by the Council; the term is renewable.
The position of Executive Director is of vital importance to the successful fulfillment of the mission of the Medieval Academy of America. As its highest-ranking professional employee, the incumbent is responsible for representing the organization’s members, their elected leadership, and the vibrant programs in Medieval Studies whose role in contemporary society and culture we support. Working from the Academy office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in collaboration with and reporting to the organization’s elected Board (a sixteen-member Council which includes the officers – president, first- and second-vice presidents, and treasurer), the Executive Director proposes, develops and implements policies and programs addressing the present and future needs of a national and international community of medieval scholars.
Responsibilities include advancing the interests of the Academy and implementing policies in conjunction with the elected Officers and Council, overseeing the Academy’s governance and membership services, supervising Academy finances and fundraising efforts, promoting membership growth, facilitating the work of Academy committees, coordinating the Annual Meeting and meetings of the Council and Executive Committee, and managing the Academy office and staff. A fuller description of the position is available on request from the chair of the search committee.
Position qualifications include:
- Proven leadership skills
- Excellent oral and written communication abilities
- Demonstrated ability to direct an office and supervise staff
- Knowledge of financial systems and non-profit accounting
- Ability to engage the Academy’s various constituencies in a positive, tactful manner
- Strategic planning and organizing skills
- Knowledge of and experience in dealing with current challenges confronting higher education and learned societies.
In addition to meeting the above criteria, the ideal candidate will possess a PhD in a recognized sub-discipline of Medieval Studies and have a distinguished record of publications in that field. Compensation will be based on qualifications and comparable to that of administrative leaders in similar institutions.
Nominations, including self-nominations, are welcome. Interested parties should submit applications including a curriculum vitae, a statement outlining plans for the development of the organization, and three names (with contact information) of individuals who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications, to directorsearch@themedievalacademy.org or as hard copy to the Academy office, 17 Dunster St., Suite 202, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA addressed to Director Search. Screening of applications will begin 15 February 2014. EEO/AA
