BY PAUL MITCHELL
North Country This Week
CANTON – The St. Lawrence County Historical Association (SLCHA) will be shifting from one executive director to two directors once a new Director of Operations is hired.
For years, SLCHA has had one person lead the operation, something SLCHA’s board of directors determined was too cumbersome.
“It’s just been too much for one director. The skill sets are too diverse and too demanding for one person,” said Board President Tim Cryderman.
The new position will focus on finances, buildings and grounds and be responsible for SLCHA’s The Quarterly publications.
The current interim director, Carlene Bermann, will assume the second director’s job. Her duties will entail collections, archives and exhibits.
The new hire will jump SLCHA’s staff to three full-time and one part-time employees - Carlene N. Bermann, interim director; Tracy L. Robertson, marketing, development and membership; and Kristen C. Whittier, administrative assistant.
“We want to get enough staff so there are not such unreal work loads,” Cryderman stated.
Cryderman hopes to have a Director of Operations person on board by June 1. The deadline to apply is April 16 and the starting salary is $55,341.
Interested candidates need to send resume/curriculum vitae, cover letter and contact information for three references to Carlene Bermann, Interim Executive Director: director@slcha.org .
The job description is as follows:
The Director of Operations is responsible for the day-to-day management of the buildings, grounds, and offices of the SLCHA. He or she will report directly to the Board of Trustees and work closely with the Board, the Director of Collections & Community Engagement, and other staff and volunteers in pursuit of the Association's mission and vision.
Duties will include:
• Oversees operations and facilities management
• Responsible for developing and maintaining budgets and overseeing fundraising initiatives
• Manages administrative and maintenance staff and volunteers
• Keeps the Association up to date with changes in local and state non-profit laws
• Applies for building and infrastructure-related grants and other funding. Works with contractors and grantors on related projects
• Co-coordinates publication of The Quarterly magazine and Wright House newsletter
• Oversees and works closely with Administrative Assistant to pay bills, manage finances, organize office spaces and gather materials for annual reviews
• Manages technology and office equipment and orders office and building supplies
• Manages gift shop inventory and purchasing
Qualified candidates will need a bachelor's degree or higher in public/business administration or a related field; plus a minimum of three years experience managing a business or not-for-profit organization, including finances and staff. Experience with historic buildings is preferred.
The successful candidate will possess strong and collaborative leadership skills, excellent organizational, administrative, communication and managerial skills. Experience with grant writing and fundraising will be required to help identify and sustain new projects and initiatives. An understanding of the preservation needs and challenges of historic buildings is also strongly preferred.
Some evening and Saturday work will be required. The position will include benefits: paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave, and 2% employer contribution to IRA.