Kansas State University

National search for director of the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art

Submitted by Office of the President

A search committee appointed by Kevin Nalette, interim chief of staff and director of community relations, has begun the national search for the director of the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art at Kansas State University. The university has engaged with the services of Academic Career and Executive Search, or ACES, an executive search firm, to support the search committee with the process.

The director will lead the staff, set programmatic priorities and oversee all operations and activities of the Beach Museum of Art. The director will provide leadership, vision and direction for the museum's development initiatives, and will lead the museum in the creation of workplace and programmatic diversity, equity and inclusion. The ideal candidates will cultivate and maintain relationships with university and community constituents, donors and Friends group, as well as lead the museum's strategic plan update to coincide with updates to the university's strategic plan. The director will serve as the curatorial authority on the university’s collections, ensure a balance of cultural relevance, diversity and value for the university’s constituents, and directs and participates in community engagement and media interaction.

The successful candidate will be a persuasive, resourceful, and energetic leader, able to inspire and empower the board, staff and other key stakeholders to advance the mission of the museum. Demonstrated financial acumen, strong analytical abilities, as well as experience with strategic planning and developing a visionary path for an organization are also crucial to long-term success.

Inquiries, nominations and applications will be treated confidentially. For full consideration, application materials must be received by Sept. 9. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita or resume. Application materials should be submitted using ACES’ candidate portal.

The search is being assisted by ACES search consultants Jennifer Muller, Elisa Org and Ann Costantino. Matt Sanderson, professor of sociology, anthropology and social work and professor of geography and geospatial sciences, and Michael Goss, member of the museum’s advisory council, serve as the search committee co-chairs.

Inquires, nominations and questions should be sent to Jennifer Muller at Jennifer@ACESrch.com or call 860-740-2600.

The full position description, including required qualifications, may be found on the president’s website.

Campus interviews will take place in the middle of the fall semester, with an anticipated appointment beginning later in the fall.