President & CEO [Space Center Houston, TX]

Space Center Houston (SCH) is a nonprofit space museum with a premier learning environment that uses space exploration to inspire wonder and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Center is the cornerstone of the nonprofit 501(c)(3) Manned Space Flight Education Foundation’s science education mission and offers rare exhibits, attractions, educational presentations and hands-on activities that tell the story of NASA’s human space flight program from its beginnings to the challenges and opportunities of today. It is Houston’s first and only Smithsonian Affiliate and has the largest collection of space artifacts in the American Southwest.

SCH is also the Official Visitor Center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC), and is a separate nonprofit entity that raises its own funding to operate the center. The Center’s 184,296-square-foot education complex welcomes more than 800,000 visitors annually, including more than 100,000 teachers and children who participate in its science education programs. Through longtime partnerships with JSC and the Smithsonian Institution visitors from around the world enjoy opportunities to view more than 400 space artifacts and changing exhibits related to America’s achievements in space as well as tour JSC facilities including Mission Control and astronaut training areas.  With the opening of SCA 905 and the replica Shuttle Independence in January 2016, the largest exhibit to open since the Center was established, SCH stands on the precipice of continued expansion and growth of its exhibits and programming that will advance its role as a national leader in space and science education.

The President & CEO has overall responsibility for maintaining and enhancing a positive and respected internal and external image of the Center and Foundation, serving as SCH’s principal representative to key external stakeholders with the goal of expanding the organization’s donors, relationships, partnerships and networks.  The role is accountable to the Board of Directors for achieving the mission of SCH and the Manned Space Flight Education Foundation through the overall leadership of the organization in pursuit of its ambitious goals.  S/he serves as President of the Board of Directors and works collaboratively with the Board to achieve the Center’s mission and also serves as the key liaison between SCH and the JSC.

SCH seeks an innovative and visionary leader, someone who demonstrates a passion for engaging others in a lifelong learning agenda while delivering a quality experience that is financially sustainable through solid program, marketing, fundraising and business practices.  A high level of experience in building and sustaining community and partnerships is necessary.  We seek a dynamic, energetic communicator. The ideal candidate will show evidence of successful fundraising leadership that includes the acquisition of major gifts and grants various funding sources.  Particularly helpful would be a background of launching innovative, ground-breaking programs that have resulted in long term funding and/or stable revenue streams.

We seek a person who can demonstrate proven ability in developing sustainable financial and operating strategies within a nonprofit, business or public organization.  This includes competencies in selecting and directing senior leaders, financial and program analysis, and earned income enhancement.  Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of senior management experience is required.  Demonstrable leadership experience in state and national professional associations concerned with education, science or related professions would be valued.  Previous experience working with, or serving on, a nonprofit Board and knowledge of board governance is important.

To apply, please send a current resume and letter of introduction to Kittleman & Associates, LLC at resumes@kittleman.net. For more information about Space Center Houston please visit www.spacecenter.org