The Susan Flint Cooper Director of Cranbrook Institute of Science

Posted on 12/12/24

Cranbrook Institute of Science is Michigan’s premier science and natural history museum situated on the campus of Cranbrook Educational Community. The Institute fosters in its audiences a passion for understanding the world around them and a lifelong love of learning. Through its broadly-based educational programs and partnerships, its permanent and changing exhibits, and its collections and research, the Institute helps develop a scientifically literate public able to succeed in today’s knowledge-based society. Extraordinary, transformational experiences in STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and math) are its primary focus.

The Institute is home to outstanding mineral and earth science collections, a research quality observatory, and the top botany, anthropology, and related life-sciences collections in the Midwest. Its programming enhances scientific curiosity in learners of all ages. Through its focus on STEM programming, the Institute helps all learners develop skills that are essential to succeeding in the 21st century. The Institute’s permanent collection contains objects distributed across nine areas of study: anthropology/archaeology; botany; entomology; herpetology; malacology; mammalogy; ornithology; paleontology; and mineralogy. The collections are particularly strong in objects that relate to Michigan, the Great Lakes, and the Midwest.

The Susan Flint Cooper Director of Cranbrook Institute of Science is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and administration of the Institute. This role involves overseeing educational programs, research initiatives, world-class exhibitions and programming, and community outreach efforts. The Director works closely with staff, volunteers, and the community to promote scientific literacy and foster a passion for science. As a member of Cranbrook Educational Community’s senior leadership, the Director is integral in building and strengthening the unique, place-based, interdisciplinary educational experience that Cranbrook Educational Community provides.

The Director’s Key Responsibilities include:

• Leadership and Strategy: Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Institute, aligning with the mission and goals of the Cranbrook Educational Community.
• Program Development: Oversee the creation and execution of innovative educational programs, exhibitions, and public events that engage diverse audiences.
• Research and Scholarship: Support and promote scientific research initiatives, ensuring the Institute remains at the forefront of scientific discovery and education.
• Fundraising and Development: Lead fundraising efforts, including grant prospecting, donor relations, and partnership development to secure financial support for the Institute’s programs and initiatives.
• Community Engagement: Foster strong relationships with on-campus, local, national, and international communities, enhancing the Institute’s visibility and impact.
• Operational Management: Ensure effective management of the Institute’s resources, including budgeting, staffing, and facilities maintenance.
• Advocacy and Representation: Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Institute, representing its interests to the public, media, and other stakeholders.

Director’s Qualifications:

• Advanced degree, doctorate preferred, in a scientific discipline, museum studies, education, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a leadership role within a scientific, educational, or cultural institution.
• Proven record of developing and designing contemporary exhibits and programming.
• Proven record of successful fundraising and development efforts.
• Strong strategic planning and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for science education and public engagement.

Cranbrook welcomes applicants for the Institute Director’s position and anticipates the successful candidate to commence their tenure July 1, 2025. Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and benefits that include medical, dental, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and retirement programs with employer contribution. We also offer generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays, employee discounts, and a unique environment in an educational setting that values collaboration. 

Compensation: $220k - $230k based on experience  

Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae or résumé and a cover letter detailing interest in the position and relevant experience. Click here to see a more detailed description of the position and to apply: The Susan Flint Cooper, Director of the Cranbrook Institute of Science | Cranbrook Employment Opportunities