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The Director of Recognition plays a pivotal role in advancing the mission of the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) by working with the EVP of Selection & Recognition to lead recognition programs, cultivating meaningful relationships with NIHF Inductees, and driving strategic program growth. This individual will collaborate across departments to produce compelling storytelling content, oversee key events and museum operations, and serve as a public-facing representative of NIHF to media and external stakeholders. This position is based in North Canton, Ohio. A relocation stipend will be made available for national candidates.

Key Responsibilities:

Recognition & Inductee Engagement

+ Partner with the EVP, Selection & Recognition to gain comprehensive knowledge of NIHF’s recognition processes and build strong relationships with Inductees and associates.

+ Serve as the liaison to NIHF Inductees, fostering ongoing engagement and representing the organization both from the office and at Inductee on-site locations.

+ Track, evaluate, and improve the effectiveness of Inductee visits, including induction and filming visits, Camp Invention visits, and special projects.

+ Integrate into Inductee engagement throughout the year through Camp Invention visit planning; Ohio visits; CIC outreach; Induction outreach; additional opportunities throughout the year to integrate with various departments.

+ Coordinate with internal teams, including the Video team, to plan and execute Inductee visits and related filming.

+ Conduct oral history-style interviews with Inductees, both virtually and in person.

+ Develop expertise in invention, intellectual property, and innovation, with a focus on areas relevant to Inductees.

+ Supervise Recognition staff and ensure successful execution of individual responsibilities.

+ Build Inductee and organization knowledge to represent NIHF externally to a variety of audiences.

Selection Process Oversight

+ Take on a leadership role in the annual Selection process, including candidate identification, research planning, meeting preparation, and on-site facilitation.

+ Manage and maintain the NIHF Selection Board and annually establish a Selection Committee.

+ Manage NIHF Researcher.

Program & Event Leadership

+ Oversee the Collegiate Inventors Competition (CIC), ensuring high-quality entries and finalist experiences.

+ Integrate Inductees into CIC programming and collaborate with the USPTO on ongoing initiatives and events.

+ Manage team that plans and executes all NIHF events, including Induction, CIC, and internal events.

Museum Oversight

+ Direct museum content development, exhibit planning, and installation.

+ Manage daily museum operations, including retail and NIHF’s presence on the USPTO campus.

+ Manage NIHF internal archives and artifact acquisition process.

+ Manage museum full-time staffer.

Strategic Collaboration & Budget Management

+ Build strong cross-functional relationships with Creative, Video, Fundraising, Marketing, and Education teams to integrate Inductee stories into NIHF programming.

+ Oversee budgets for Selection & Recognition, Events, and Museum operations.

+ Continuously assess and improve processes through strategic thinking, documentation, and creative problem-solving.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

+ Proven leadership and decision-making capabilities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

+ Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

+ Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and organizational abilities.

+ Ability to thrive in and manage complex schedules and balance organizational and Inductee needs.

+ Skilled in relationship-building with internal and external stakeholders.

+ Comfortable with professional travel and remote project execution.

+ High attention to detail, accuracy, and time management.

+ Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Dropbox, Trello, and Salesforce.

Credentials and Experience:

+ Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, history, communications, marketing, or a related field.

+ Minimum of 7 years of experience in communications, public relations, alumni relations, or a similar field. Museum and/or Hall of Fame and/or Alumni Relations experience is preferred and will be given special consideration.

+ Demonstrated success in project management, team leadership, and budget oversight.

Travel Requirements:

+ Up to 30% national travel per year.

Why Join the National Inventors Hall of Fame?

+ Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy top-tier medical, dental, vision, and insurance plans, along with flexible spending accounts to help pay for any out-of-pocket medical expenses.

+ Company-Paid Benefits: NIHF contributes 100% to provide life and disability coverages.

+ Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match and 100% vesting upon initial contribution, ensuring your financial stability and growth.

+ Generous Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end closure from December 24th through January 1st to recharge.

+ Additional Support: Access Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Supplemental Income plans for extra peace of mind.

+ Pet-Friendly Perks: Protect your furry friends with our pet insurance plans.

+ Stay Fit and Healthy: Utilize our on-site workout facility to maintain your physical well-being.

+ Flexible Work Arrangements: Enjoy alternate workday scheduling and the option for hybrid remote work after 90 days, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

+ Thriving Work Environment: Be part of a great team environment with ample opportunities for growth and a culture that prioritizes professional development.