Senior Regional Director

Description:

World Monuments Fund (WMF), the leading global organization dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, is seeking a Senior Regional Director – USA + Canada to join its New York-based team. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead, manage, and expand a dynamic portfolio of heritage conservation projects across North America with an emphasis on community-led approaches.

As a pivotal member of the Programs Department, reporting to the Senior Director of Field Projects, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing both ongoing and new projects, with a focus on aligning initiatives with WMF’s global strategic priorities—such as climate resilience and responsible tourism.

This role also encompasses active involvement in WMF’s flagship initiatives like the World Monuments Watch and Bridge to Crafts Careers (B2CC). The ideal applicant will bring strong knowledge of architectural history, outstanding communication skills, and demonstrated leadership in preservation project execution and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a robust portfolio of cultural heritage projects throughout the United States and Canada, focusing especially on the East Coast and New York City.

• Engage communities and local stakeholders in preservation initiatives reflecting WMF’s mission.

• Oversee project planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting, ensuring adherence to deadlines and donor requirements.

• Manage documentation processes including contracts, procurement, and financial oversight.

• Support the expansion of the Bridge to Crafts Careers (B2CC) program to multiple U.S. cities in collaboration with training partners and social service organizations.

• Develop and manage programs related to the USA Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary).

• Actively contribute to the World Monuments Watch, advocating for strong project nominations from North America.

• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with community organizations, preservation professionals, donors, and government agencies.

• Represent WMF in conferences, workshops, and public forums, promoting North American heritage projects and global preservation efforts.

• Contribute to internal and external reports and publications as needed.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Graduate degree in Historic Preservation, Cultural Resource Management, or a closely related discipline.

Experience:

• 7–10 years of professional experience managing cultural heritage or preservation projects.

• Strong familiarity with American architectural styles, vernacular design, and the preservation policy landscape at all government levels in the U.S.

• Experience producing historic structure reports, conservation management plans, and protected status nominations.

• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, especially with community-based projects.

Technical Proficiency:

• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Familiarity with platforms such as GIS, CAD, or Arches.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• Highly organized and capable of managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in international and cross-cultural environments.

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel regularly throughout the U.S. and Canada.

• Additional language proficiency is a plus but not required.

Reports To:

Senior Director of Field Projects

Salary & Benefits:

• Annual Salary Range: $100,000 to $125,000

• Monthly Equivalent: $8,333 to $10,416

• Benefits Include:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance

  • Retirement plans

  • Paid leave and professional development opportunities