Executive Director

Preservation Durham | Durham, NC


About Preservation Durham

Founded in 1974, Preservation Durham is a dynamic nonprofit dedicated to protecting Durham’s culturally diverse history, heritage, and historic assets through education, advocacy, and action. Our work spans historic properties, landscapes, neighborhoods, and the stories of the communities that shaped them.

Over the past two years, Preservation Durham has experienced significant growth and transformation, with a strong emphasis on advocacy and community-centered preservation. With a new strategic plan in place, the organization is poised to expand its impact even further. We are seeking a visionary and collaborative Executive Director to lead us into this next chapter.


Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of Preservation Durham, responsible for overall organizational management, fundraising, program development, and community engagement. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader who brings both preservation expertise and a commitment to inclusive, community-driven work.

The Executive Director partners closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders to advance the organization’s mission and ensure long-term sustainability.


Key Responsibilities


Leadership & Strategy

  • Provide vision and strategic direction for programs, operations, and growth
  • Champion an inclusive and expansive approach to historic preservation
  • Partner with the Board to implement long-term plans and organizational priorities
  • Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the organization


Fundraising & Development

  • Lead and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy across diverse revenue streams
  • Plan and implement a capital campaign to support growth and preservation initiatives
  • Cultivate and steward major donors and key funding partners
  • Oversee grant writing, reporting, and compliance


Operations & Preservation Oversight

  • Manage day-to-day operations, including supervision of a small staff and interns
  • Oversee budgeting, financial management, and organizational systems
  • Manage a portfolio of 55 historic preservation easements, including compliance and stewardship
  • Provide guidance on real estate transactions and preservation agreements
  • Ensure effective use of CRM systems and alignment across communications, programs, and fundraising
  • Directing brand outreach and engagement 


Board & Community Engagement

  • Support and empower the Board as ambassadors and fundraisers
  • Build strong partnerships locally, regionally, and nationally
  • Engage volunteers, stakeholders, and community members in meaningful ways
  • Promote equitable and inclusive engagement in preservation efforts


Qualifications

  • Senior leadership experience in a nonprofit organization
  • Proven track record of achieving fundraising goals
  • Experience in historic preservation, cultural heritage, or a related field
  • Familiarity with preservation easements, property compliance, and/or historic real estate
  • Proven proficiency and financial operations


Preferred Skills

  • Proven organizational, financial, and team management skills
  • Excellent communication and public speaking abilities
  • Proficiency with CRM systems (Neon preferred) and Microsoft/Google Suite
  • Dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment


Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: $75,000 – $80,000
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Cell phone stipend
  • Healthcare stipend
  • 17 days of combined paid vacation and sick leave, plus 14 paid holidays


Additional Details

This is a full-time, primarily in-person position which requires schedule flexibility to accommodate evening and weekend hours as needed.


How to Apply

  • Please send the following materials to Employment@preservationdurham.org
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • References