Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
Executive Director
Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, Albert Lea, Minnesota, United States, 56007
ABOUT THE FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
(doing business as the History Center of Freeborn County) The Freeborn County Historical Society was established in January of 1948 at an organizational meeting held in the law offices of J. F. D. Meighen. Lester W. Spicer was elected president. Other officers were Dr. Andrew Gullixson, first vice president; Carl Lunde, second vice president; William H. Sykes, secretary and treasurer. Directors were Anna Frydenlund, J. F. D. Meighen and Bernard Johnsrud. These founding members organized the society with the intention of collecting and preserving the history of Freeborn County. In November 1955, the Freeborn County Historical Society (FCHS) purchased 42 steel lockers from the Jordahl plant in Manchester to be installed in the engineer's office in the old courthouse for storing documents. On February 20, 1960, FCHS officially open its museum in the basement of the courthouse building. In 1966 FCHS constructed a museum building on land leased through the county located next to the Freeborn County Fairgrounds. There have been two expansions to the history center building, one in 1980 and the latest in 2013. The History Center of Freeborn County is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization governed by members via a Board of Directors. Each year, together with enthusiastic volunteers, the History Center provides presentations, educational and outreach programs, special events, museum exhibits, and more. In addition to the history center, it currently owns and operates a historical village with nine historical structures, a covered agriculture display, and a Red Shed with four storefronts and exhibits inside. The Itasca Rock Garden was gifted to FCHS in 2023 by the Koehler Foundation after a $500,000 restoration. The History Center currently has four staff members – a Curator, Library and Archive Coordinator, Interim Executive Director, and Custodian. The Board of Directors consists of twelve community leaders. The History Center has a comprehensive five-year strategic plan that was finalized in 2024. There is also an eight-year exhibit refresh plan in place. It has also been expanding its historical programs for students of Freeborn County, residents, and visitors. POSITION DESCRIPTION The History Center of Freeborn County is seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Director for a full-time, on-site position. The Executive Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of HCFC’s operations, including program development, financial management, and staff supervision. As a mentor to staff, the Executive Director will motivate and empower the team to achieve their best work. In addition to operational responsibilities, the Executive Director will be a passionate leader who inspires others to engage with the mission and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging statement of the History Center. The leader will work in partnership with the Board of Directors to ensure sound organizational governance and fulfillment of HCFC’s mission. The Executive Director will also have responsibilities in cultivating and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including partner groups, donors, members, volunteers, and community leaders. Specifically, the Executive Director will: I.
Governance and Organizational Leadership
Partner with the Board of Directors to ensure HCFC is fulfilling its mission. Communicate effectively with the Board and provide all information necessary for the Board to make informed decisions in performing its governance functions. Work with the Board of Directors to develop, implement and update policies and procedures as needed to guide HCFC’s operations and support its mission and goals. In collaboration with the Board of Directors: develop, implement, and regularly refine a strategic plan that both upholds the History Center’s values and maximizes its impact. Promote HCFC’s programs and services to key stakeholders to increase awareness and support for the HCFC’s mission and the importance of preserving, collecting, researching, and interpreting historical information. Act as HCFC’s spokesperson and represent it at public events, speaking engagements, and in the media. II.
Financial Management & Leadership
: Oversee HCFC’s financial management in partnership with the Board to ensure the organization is financially sound and operating with financial prudence for long-term sustainability. Work with the Board Treasurer and Executive Committee to develop the History Center’s annual budget and ensure its alignment with organizational goals and priorities. Monitor financial performance and adjusting as needed to ensure that the organization is operating within its budget. Collaborate with the Board of Directors and other stakeholders to identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost savings, while also ensuring the organization remains financially stable and sustainable for the long term. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices in nonprofit financial management and ensure HCFC’s financial policies and procedures are in compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines. III.
Fundraising and Development In partnership with the Board of Directors: Develop and lead the implementation of a comprehensive fundraising plan that aligns with the History Center’s mission and goals and focuses on those strategies with the highest potential return on investment. Identify and cultivate relationships with high-level donors, foundations, government agencies and other potential funding sources that will lead to deeper relationships with and support for HCFC. Provide leadership and direction to staff and volunteers involved in fundraising and development activities and ensure all efforts are aligned with HCFC’s strategic goals and priorities. Seek and manage grants to fund a variety of projects, including rejuvenation and activation of the unique historical structures. Ensure the organization raises sufficient funds to meet its goals and expand its impact, monitoring progress toward fundraising goals and making adjustments as needed. Stay current regarding best practices in fundraising and work to continuously improve HCFC’s fundraising efforts. IV.
Staff Management and Mentorship
: Build and lead an effective team capable of achieving the History Center’s goals through effective management and innovative thinking. Foster a positive work environment and promote teamwork and collaboration, encouraging staff members to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. Ensure that the organization provides regular feedback to staff members through ongoing mentoring and formal performance evaluations, with the goals that they are meeting performance expectations and growing professionally. Model and promote the organization’s values and culture, setting a high standard for ethical and effective behavior in all interactions and ensuring that all staff share a common vision. V.
Facility/Site Management
Oversee the organization's physical assets, infrastructure, maintenance, safety, and capital projects, ensuring compliance with regulations for the History Center, the Village, and the Itasca Rock Garden. Develop long-term facility plans, including maintenance, capital improvements, and space allocation, to support the organization's mission and goals. Oversee daily operations and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and infrastructure, ensuring the efficient functioning of mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including safety, environmental standards (OSHA), and physical accessibility (ADA) requirements. Implement cost-effective energy management strategies and promote sustainable practices, such as water conservation and recycling. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years experience OR five years of experience may be substituted for a Bachelor’s degree, in a relevant field, such as nonprofit management, business, marketing, or museum studies with a focus on management practices. Experience with historical preservation principles and best practices preferred but not required. Strong leadership, communication (oral and written), and interpersonal skills. Proven comfort and effectiveness with public speaking. Previous experience supporting and partnering with a Board of Directors. Demonstrated experience in fundraising and development, including grant writing. Knowledge of nonprofit financial management and budgeting. Self-directed and able to work independently, as well as with a team. Strong project management skills, ability to balance competing priorities, complex situations, and tight deadlines. Strong knowledge and skills in organizing and leading meetings/trainings in both person and virtual settings. CORE KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills, with a keen attention to detail. Knowledge and competency related to history, including an ability to effectively communicate about trends and issues in operating historical museums. Proven track record of completing strategic and tactical operational improvements with metrics-driven results. Strong leadership abilities, complemented by excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work in partnership with a Board of Directors. LOCATION Albert Lea, Minnesota, with a population of 18,434 residents, is the county seat of Freeborn County. Freeborn County is a southern Minnesota agricultural region known for its rolling terrain, lakes, and productive farmland, located at the intersection of I-90 and I-35. Historically a destination for diverse settlers, the county now features a population of around 30,000, offering a productive agricultural base, various industrial and retail options, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The region's economy thrives on agriculture, supported by a strong history of farming and related services. Freeborn County is internationally recognized for its connection to Eddie Cochran and to Marion Ross. It is conveniently located at I35 and I90, approximately an hour and a half drive south of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. INTERVIEW PROCESS
Our interview process includes the following: Submit a resume and cover letter to director@fchmmn.org (Stephanie Kibler, Executive Director at of the History Center of Freeborn County) by October 15, 2025. Initial interviews with the History Center of Freeborn County’s search committee. In person interview with the HCFC Board of Directors and Staff, which will include a presentation on how to increase fund development. Offer extended. Start Date : Negotiable Salary : $55,000-65,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience, with advancement in compensation dependent on meeting performance metrics as determined collaboratively with the History Center’s Board of Directors. Benefits: PTO Simple IRA Flexible work schedule
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(doing business as the History Center of Freeborn County) The Freeborn County Historical Society was established in January of 1948 at an organizational meeting held in the law offices of J. F. D. Meighen. Lester W. Spicer was elected president. Other officers were Dr. Andrew Gullixson, first vice president; Carl Lunde, second vice president; William H. Sykes, secretary and treasurer. Directors were Anna Frydenlund, J. F. D. Meighen and Bernard Johnsrud. These founding members organized the society with the intention of collecting and preserving the history of Freeborn County. In November 1955, the Freeborn County Historical Society (FCHS) purchased 42 steel lockers from the Jordahl plant in Manchester to be installed in the engineer's office in the old courthouse for storing documents. On February 20, 1960, FCHS officially open its museum in the basement of the courthouse building. In 1966 FCHS constructed a museum building on land leased through the county located next to the Freeborn County Fairgrounds. There have been two expansions to the history center building, one in 1980 and the latest in 2013. The History Center of Freeborn County is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization governed by members via a Board of Directors. Each year, together with enthusiastic volunteers, the History Center provides presentations, educational and outreach programs, special events, museum exhibits, and more. In addition to the history center, it currently owns and operates a historical village with nine historical structures, a covered agriculture display, and a Red Shed with four storefronts and exhibits inside. The Itasca Rock Garden was gifted to FCHS in 2023 by the Koehler Foundation after a $500,000 restoration. The History Center currently has four staff members – a Curator, Library and Archive Coordinator, Interim Executive Director, and Custodian. The Board of Directors consists of twelve community leaders. The History Center has a comprehensive five-year strategic plan that was finalized in 2024. There is also an eight-year exhibit refresh plan in place. It has also been expanding its historical programs for students of Freeborn County, residents, and visitors. POSITION DESCRIPTION The History Center of Freeborn County is seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Director for a full-time, on-site position. The Executive Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of HCFC’s operations, including program development, financial management, and staff supervision. As a mentor to staff, the Executive Director will motivate and empower the team to achieve their best work. In addition to operational responsibilities, the Executive Director will be a passionate leader who inspires others to engage with the mission and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging statement of the History Center. The leader will work in partnership with the Board of Directors to ensure sound organizational governance and fulfillment of HCFC’s mission. The Executive Director will also have responsibilities in cultivating and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including partner groups, donors, members, volunteers, and community leaders. Specifically, the Executive Director will: I.
Governance and Organizational Leadership
Partner with the Board of Directors to ensure HCFC is fulfilling its mission. Communicate effectively with the Board and provide all information necessary for the Board to make informed decisions in performing its governance functions. Work with the Board of Directors to develop, implement and update policies and procedures as needed to guide HCFC’s operations and support its mission and goals. In collaboration with the Board of Directors: develop, implement, and regularly refine a strategic plan that both upholds the History Center’s values and maximizes its impact. Promote HCFC’s programs and services to key stakeholders to increase awareness and support for the HCFC’s mission and the importance of preserving, collecting, researching, and interpreting historical information. Act as HCFC’s spokesperson and represent it at public events, speaking engagements, and in the media. II.
Financial Management & Leadership
: Oversee HCFC’s financial management in partnership with the Board to ensure the organization is financially sound and operating with financial prudence for long-term sustainability. Work with the Board Treasurer and Executive Committee to develop the History Center’s annual budget and ensure its alignment with organizational goals and priorities. Monitor financial performance and adjusting as needed to ensure that the organization is operating within its budget. Collaborate with the Board of Directors and other stakeholders to identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost savings, while also ensuring the organization remains financially stable and sustainable for the long term. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices in nonprofit financial management and ensure HCFC’s financial policies and procedures are in compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines. III.
Fundraising and Development In partnership with the Board of Directors: Develop and lead the implementation of a comprehensive fundraising plan that aligns with the History Center’s mission and goals and focuses on those strategies with the highest potential return on investment. Identify and cultivate relationships with high-level donors, foundations, government agencies and other potential funding sources that will lead to deeper relationships with and support for HCFC. Provide leadership and direction to staff and volunteers involved in fundraising and development activities and ensure all efforts are aligned with HCFC’s strategic goals and priorities. Seek and manage grants to fund a variety of projects, including rejuvenation and activation of the unique historical structures. Ensure the organization raises sufficient funds to meet its goals and expand its impact, monitoring progress toward fundraising goals and making adjustments as needed. Stay current regarding best practices in fundraising and work to continuously improve HCFC’s fundraising efforts. IV.
Staff Management and Mentorship
: Build and lead an effective team capable of achieving the History Center’s goals through effective management and innovative thinking. Foster a positive work environment and promote teamwork and collaboration, encouraging staff members to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. Ensure that the organization provides regular feedback to staff members through ongoing mentoring and formal performance evaluations, with the goals that they are meeting performance expectations and growing professionally. Model and promote the organization’s values and culture, setting a high standard for ethical and effective behavior in all interactions and ensuring that all staff share a common vision. V.
Facility/Site Management
Oversee the organization's physical assets, infrastructure, maintenance, safety, and capital projects, ensuring compliance with regulations for the History Center, the Village, and the Itasca Rock Garden. Develop long-term facility plans, including maintenance, capital improvements, and space allocation, to support the organization's mission and goals. Oversee daily operations and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and infrastructure, ensuring the efficient functioning of mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including safety, environmental standards (OSHA), and physical accessibility (ADA) requirements. Implement cost-effective energy management strategies and promote sustainable practices, such as water conservation and recycling. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years experience OR five years of experience may be substituted for a Bachelor’s degree, in a relevant field, such as nonprofit management, business, marketing, or museum studies with a focus on management practices. Experience with historical preservation principles and best practices preferred but not required. Strong leadership, communication (oral and written), and interpersonal skills. Proven comfort and effectiveness with public speaking. Previous experience supporting and partnering with a Board of Directors. Demonstrated experience in fundraising and development, including grant writing. Knowledge of nonprofit financial management and budgeting. Self-directed and able to work independently, as well as with a team. Strong project management skills, ability to balance competing priorities, complex situations, and tight deadlines. Strong knowledge and skills in organizing and leading meetings/trainings in both person and virtual settings. CORE KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills, with a keen attention to detail. Knowledge and competency related to history, including an ability to effectively communicate about trends and issues in operating historical museums. Proven track record of completing strategic and tactical operational improvements with metrics-driven results. Strong leadership abilities, complemented by excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work in partnership with a Board of Directors. LOCATION Albert Lea, Minnesota, with a population of 18,434 residents, is the county seat of Freeborn County. Freeborn County is a southern Minnesota agricultural region known for its rolling terrain, lakes, and productive farmland, located at the intersection of I-90 and I-35. Historically a destination for diverse settlers, the county now features a population of around 30,000, offering a productive agricultural base, various industrial and retail options, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The region's economy thrives on agriculture, supported by a strong history of farming and related services. Freeborn County is internationally recognized for its connection to Eddie Cochran and to Marion Ross. It is conveniently located at I35 and I90, approximately an hour and a half drive south of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. INTERVIEW PROCESS
Our interview process includes the following: Submit a resume and cover letter to director@fchmmn.org (Stephanie Kibler, Executive Director at of the History Center of Freeborn County) by October 15, 2025. Initial interviews with the History Center of Freeborn County’s search committee. In person interview with the HCFC Board of Directors and Staff, which will include a presentation on how to increase fund development. Offer extended. Start Date : Negotiable Salary : $55,000-65,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience, with advancement in compensation dependent on meeting performance metrics as determined collaboratively with the History Center’s Board of Directors. Benefits: PTO Simple IRA Flexible work schedule
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