The Seacoast Science Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3), science learning center located within Odiorne State Park in Rye, New Hampshire. The Center has existed as a non-profit since 1992 led by its founding president, Wendy Lull. The Center is well-positioned for its future, having a stable financial position, a dedicated professional staff of 17, member and volunteer support, and is governed by a committed board of directors.

Located on New Hampshire’s seacoast, the Center is a regionally respected marine science education organization. The Center remains open throughout the year, and serves 80,000 visitors annually, including approximately 26,000 students. Through programs, exhibits, and marine mammal rescue, the Seacoast Science Center teaches people, from toddlers to grandparents, why a healthy ocean matters, and advances science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. The Center also serves as the Park’s visitor/interpretive center.
Additionally, since 2014, the Center’s Marine Mammal Rescue Team (MMRT) has been authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service to lead New Hampshire’s marine mammal rescue effort. MMRT responds to more than 70 cases per year, mainly involving seals, and in 2016, led a coordinated response by government and non-profit organizations following the beaching of a deceased adult humpback whale.
As an officer of the Seacoast Science Center, the President sets the strategic direction for the institution and is its principal external representative. The President is responsible for developing plans and initiatives to meet the Center’s financial needs and advance its mission. The President is also the management liaison to the Board of Directors and is an ex-officio member of the Board. The President signs all contracts, leases, deeds, mortgages, and other instruments on behalf of the Corporation.

The next President will be offered the opportunity to not only lead the Center and continue its mission, but further its growth and extend its impact. Having recently completed a business plan, the new President will work with the Board of Directors to construct and implement a strategic plan.

Candidate requirements include a history of progressively responsible leadership experience in museums, science education, or placed-based education institutions, and an advanced degree in a related field of study. The ideal candidate must have non-profit management experience, a keen understanding of the Center’s mission, and successful background in cultivation of relationships that result in major gifts, foundation or federal grants, corporate sponsorship or other forms of philanthropic support. The successful candidate must also be an effective advocate for the organization with diverse groups: public, community, corporate, academic, and political. Accordingly, superior verbal and written communication skills are required. The successful candidate must possess the ability to lead groups in outdoor program settings, including moderate hiking on trails and the rocky shore. A willingness to get your hands wet is a must, and the ability to interpret natural science and/or coastal environmental history is preferred.

To nominate a potential candidate, please contact Allan Waterfield ata.waterfield@sscnh.org or (603) 436-8043, ext. 22.

To apply, send a cover letter and resume to: Search Committee, Seacoast Science Center, 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye NH 03870 or email (preferred) toa.waterfield@sscnh.org.

The search committee will start reviewing applications on October 24, 2016.