Royal Historical Society of Victoria
Executive Director
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join the Royal Historical Society of Victoria as Executive Director.
- Shape RHSV’s future directon
- Champion history and community
- Situated in an iconic heritage-listed building, Art Deco Drill Hall
- Melbourne CBD, Full time or 0.8
The Royal Historical Society of Victoria (RHSV) is a vibrant, community-driven organisation and the state’s largest historical society dedicated to collecting, preserving and promoting Victoria’s rich and diverse histories. Entirely supported by its over 1250 members and philanthropic contributions, RHSV is a trusted cultural institution with a proud legacy and an exciting future. From its impactful programs like History Month and the Victorian Community History Awards, to its welcoming headquarters in the 1938 heritage-listed Art Deco Drill Hall in Melbourne’s CBD, RHSV operates an active hub where people can enjoy the collection, book shop, library and range of engaging activities.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a strategically minded Executive Director to guide RHSV into its next phase. RHSV is poised for evolution and seeks a leader who understands the unique nature of member-based, heritage-focused institutions as well as bring clarity, innovation and vision to its future. Reporting to the President, the Executive Director will build upon the Society’s strong foundation, shape their strategic direction, strengthen and forge new philanthropic relationships; and expand its visibility and impact in an evolving landscape.
Additionally, the Executive Director will have oversight of the day-to-day management of the Society’s operations and the leadership of its salaried and volunteer staff; and a willingness to bring a hands-on approach and readiness to support daily activities as needed.
About YOU
- Proven leadership and management experience in not-for-profit, membership-based or cultural organisations
- Ability to lead a small team and collaborate effectively with a large, engaged volunteer base
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to set challenging and achievable goals
- An inspirational leadership style that fosters collaboration across staff, volunteers and councillors
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to build partnerships and raise organisational visibility
- Bring a sound understanding of digital technologies and their role in enhancing the stewardship, accessibility and engagement of historical collections; and an innovative approach that strengthens mission delivery and broadens community reach
- Experience working with boards, councils and NFP governance bodies, with a strong record of achievement
- Tertiary qualifications in any discipline; and preferably, experience in museums, libraries, archives, or cultural institutions
- A genuine passion for history, heritage and community engagement
Gembridge Australia champions diversity and is committed to building an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation and genders.
APPLY NOW if you a thoughtful and visionary leader with a passion for history and community, plus ready to guide an organisation with heart and heritage into its next chapter.
Gembridge is proud to partner with Royal Historical Society of Victoria.
For a confidential discussion, contact Michelle Varcoe or Jenni D’Orival at Gembridge on 1300 313 413 or apply@gembridge.com.au
