Abilene Preservation League: Executive Director

The Abilene Preservation League (APL) is seeking a dynamic and passionate Executive Director to lead our organization in its mission to preserve and promote Abilene's rich historical heritage. The Executive Director will provide visionary leadership, oversee operations, raise funds, and engage with the community to enhance APL’s impact and presence.

Who Are We? The Abilene Preservation League (APL) is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to preserving and promoting the rich historical heritage of Abilene, Texas. We engage the community through educational programs, events, and initiatives that highlight the significance of our local history. Our mission is to foster appreciation for historic preservation and advocate for protecting Abilene's unique architectural and cultural resources. With a passionate board and active volunteers, APL strives to be a leader in historic preservation, ensuring that our community's history is celebrated and preserved for future generations. You can learn more about our current projects at https://abilenepreservation.org/.

Where are we going? The Abilene Preservation League (APL) envisions a vibrant community where the rich historical heritage of Abilene is not only preserved but celebrated and integrated into the daily lives of its residents. We aim to partner with community leaders, fostering initiatives promoting historic preservation and citizen engagement. By fostering a deeper appreciation for our local history, APL seeks to inspire future generations to value and protect the unique architectural and cultural resources that define our city. We aim to create a lasting impact through educational programs, community events, and strategic partnerships that enhance the visibility and significance of Abilene's historical treasures. Together, we will ensure that the stories of our past continue to resonate and shape the future of our community.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure resources for the organization’s mission and programs. Includes oversight of fundraising events.
• Provide visionary leadership to the organization, fostering collaboration and a shared sense of purpose among staff, board members, and stakeholders.
• Manage workflow and small staff. Create and oversee the annual budget.
• Engage with and mobilize the board of directors to advance strategic goals and increase organizational impact.
• Serve as a passionate advocate for historic preservation, ensuring APL’s programs reflect its mission and goals.
• Build and nurture relationships with diverse community members, donors, and partners to strengthen APL’s presence and reputation.
• Oversee organizational operations, including financial management, program development, and team leadership.
• Identify opportunities for positive change and implement strategies to achieve sustainable growth and progress.

Qualifications & Characteristics

• Proven experience in nonprofit leadership, with a strong track record in fundraising and resource development. Grant writing experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise or passion for historic preservation, understanding preservation practices and initiatives, or willingness to learn.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire teams, board members, and the community.
• Strong communication skills, capable of navigating interactions with diverse personalities and stakeholders.
• A local connection to Abilene and active community involvement are strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, leadership, business, or other applicable field.

• A strategic thinker who can identify challenges and opportunities, creating actionable plans to move the organization forward. 
• Skilled in facilitating board engagement and utilizing board strengths to achieve organizational goals.
• Comfortable in varying working conditions, including site visits to underdeveloped properties, and willingness to adhere to safety protocols. 
• Demonstrates adaptability and enthusiasm for driving positive organizational change.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and vision for the role to president@abilenepreservation.org. Please include three names of individuals with email addresses for professional references. No letters of recommendation are required; we will follow up with references. The APL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Location: Abilene, Texas, must work on-site; limited work-from-home hours are permitted as needed.