The Director of Decolonizing Initiatives at the San Diego Museum of Man (SDMoM) initiates, tracks, and coordinates decolonization initiatives at the Museum. Primary function of this role is to support decolonizing practice in the departments of Exhibits, Cultural Resources, Operations, Education and Public Engagement, Marketing & Communications, Development, and Administration. Initial focus for this role will be leading a decolonization strategic planning process for the Museum, and supporting decolonization initiatives related to Kumeyaay sovereignty in relationship to the Museum.

This position reports to the Deputy Director and works closely with the Museum’s Directors, Executive Management Team, and Board of Trustees.

Responsibilities:

• Relationship-building with descendant Indigenous communities to support consultation around the disposition of cultural resources, access, and development of exhibits and programs.
• Direct the development and implementation of broad decolonization initiatives at SDMoM.
• Direct contract cultural competency and equity and inclusion trainers who work with the Museum.
• Project management of Museum-wide decolonization initiatives such as IMLS grant-funded activities and strategic planning.
• Lead the Museum’s Decolonization Working Group.
• Attend Kumeyaay and other indigenous organization meetings as needed.
• With Cultural Resource and Education staff, support the planning and implementation of annual Kumeyaay Community Access.
• Work with the Cultural Resources Managers for decolonization and NAGPRA to remain informed about current and future repatriations and consultations.
• Maintain records on the outreach, notification, and consultation process with Indigenous communities.
• Prepare quarterly progress reports on decolonization initiatives for Museum and Community use.

Qualifications:

• Minimum five years of work experience in community outreach, organizing, coalition-building, and/or relationship-building (at least three of those within a museum context).
• Knowledge of Museum practices, structures, and history.
• Minimum five years of experience in project management.
• Knowledge of, and experience working with, Indigenous/Native communities.p and support as required.
• Knowledge of and experience with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act preferred.
• Experience in managing complex, sensitive, or confidential projects including a demonstrated ability to listen and deal empathetically with a wide range of people and groups.
• Strong interpersonal, and communications skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.
• Proficient technology skills, including word processing, Excel, and reporting programs.
• Willingness to work on a team and embrace shifts in priorities on a regular basis