The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (“The MAX”) is seeking a President + CEO to provide dynamic leadership and, in partnership with the board and by managing and leading key staff, to implement a vision and strategic plan for the organization into the future.

The President + CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors and its Committees to refine, develop, and implement a progressive program for The MAX’s revenue generation, fundraising, exhibitions, educational activities, and state-wide outreach. The MAX tells Mississippi’s unparalleled story of greatness through interactive exhibits featuring its native sons’ and daughters’ contributions to art, entertainment, and cultural activity.

The MAX and its 30+ staff welcome families, groups of all ages, and tourists, and hosts a wide range of educational, professional and community offerings. An outdoor performance stage, community meeting and event spaces, and state-of-the-art recording, pottery, and fine arts studios make The MAX not only a thriving hub of arts and community in Meridian but also a statewide, regional, and national resource. This center highlights and celebrates Mississippi’s rich, unparalleled contributions in arts and entertainment.

“The Mississippi story is often misunderstood and unknown. We enlighten and inspire by sharing stories of creative expression to provide opportunity for all generations to reach their full creative potential.”

The Mississippi Legislature authorized The MAX and its mission in 2001. The $4.3 million annual budget for the nonprofit comes from donations, memberships, gate admissions, grants from government and foundations, and a local food and beverage tax. More can be discovered about The MAX at MSArts.org.

About Meridian

Meridian, the Queen City, located 90 miles east of Jackson and 150 miles west of Birmingham, has experienced a modern renaissance anchored by The MAX, the MSU Riley Center, and Mississippi Children’s Museum - Meridian and the newly renovated Threefoot Hotel. Visitors to Meridian can explore historic trails, dine at Mississippi’s oldest restaurant, and enjoy shopping and live music. The city celebrates its status as the birthplace of icons like Jimmie Rodgers, Sela Ward, and David Ruffin, all contributing to the rich tapestry that makes Meridian a hub of arts and culture.

Culturally rich, Meridian offers the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, Mississippi Children’s Museum - Meridian, and a thriving downtown arts scene, including The MAX. Outdoor experiences such as the 3,300-acre Bonita Lakes Park and Okatibbee Lake, complement historical markers and quality healthcare facilities, making Meridian a significant cultural and community hub.

Summary of Responsibilities:

Works in conjunction with the Board and its Committees to develop a sustainable strategic direction and establish initiatives to fulfill the mission of The MAX and increase local, statewide, national, and international awareness and prominence.
Directs The MAX’s operations to include the alignment of revenue opportunities, development, education and public programming, finance, external communications, and staffing.
Manages and leads the staff (full-time year-round and seasonal), volunteers, and consultants.
Works with the Director of Finance to create a strong financial backbone – balanced budgets, sufficient cash reserves, growing endowments, and financial systems that allow for monitoring of financial status.
Works closely with the Director of Development to implement robust fundraising activities and results. Leads and participates in all fundraising and development activities, oversees grant writing, and develops relationships with foundations, corporations, and individual donors.
Serves as spokesperson and chief advocate for The MAX. Establishes strong partnerships in the community and throughout Mississippi. Enhances The MAX’s public image to expand interest and support.
Works closely with the Director of Programs and Communications to create an effective communications plan to raise the profile of The MAX. Oversees and directs the development of marketing initiatives.
Works closely with the Director of Operations to manage, secure, and maintain the property and facilities of The MAX, as well as the objects on loan and held in public trust.
Advocates in the state legislature and on a national level on important issues related to Mississippi’s creative legacy and artistic and cultural resources on the local, regional, national, and international levels.

Desired Leadership Attributes:

Leadership

Fundraising Ability

Passion for Mission

Credibility

Judgment

Interpersonal Skills

Communications

Strategic Thinking

Results-Driven Mindset

Demonstrated Success in Community Networking

Financial Management Expertise

Human Resources Management Experience

Steward of Positive Organizational Culture

Required Qualifications:

Education | Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.

Experience | Ideal candidate has 10 years of experience in museums, historic sites, business or nonprofit organizations with a cultural focus, with at least 10 years at an executive or senior managerial level.

Leadership | Ability to provide strong leadership, vision, and strategic direction.

Strategic Planning | Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans with the board of directors.

Knowledge | Demonstrated business knowledge of standards and best practices for museums, nonprofits, or similar organizations, along with a history of involvement in relevant professional organizations.

Fundraising | Strong track record of success in fundraising and audience development.

Communication | Demonstrated excellence in writing and public speaking.

Partnership Building | Proven ability to work cooperatively with the board of directors, facilitating their engagement and sharing of skills and expertise in pursuit of THE MAX’s mission.

Management | Competence in managing museum operations, including supervising and successfully working with museum staff, volunteers, and diverse public constituencies.

Budget Management | Evidence of success in developing, managing, and growing an annual operating budget.

Business Skills | Strong business management skills.

Organizational Skills | Excellent planning, time management, and decision-making abilities.

Flexibility | Willingness to travel and work a variable schedule, including weekends and evenings, when needed.

Compensation | Salary commensurate with experience, along with a competitive benefits package.

How to Apply

The MAX has retained Kinetic Staffing, a Mississippi-based executive recruiting firm, as the exclusive search consultant for this position. Resumes (Word or PDF preferred) with a list of 3 references (at least one professional reference) may be sent in confidence to themaxceo@kineticstaffing.com to the attention of Alan Lange, CEO. Candidates will be considered on a rolling basis and those interested are encouraged to apply immediately. References will not be contacted without prior permission of the applicant.

The MAX follows equal employment guidelines and employs personnel without regard to race, creed, color, class, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability (as prescribed by the Americans with Disabilities Act), veteran status or marital status.

Kinetic Staffing, LLC

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