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Society for Ethnomusicology Seeks Executive Director

Jobs, Professional Opportunities
the words, mostly in gray, "the Society for Ethnomusicology" in lowercase, with ethnomusicology in a dark red

The Society for Ethnomusicology (SEM) seeks applicants for a full-time Executive Director to work with its Board of Directors and membership in the upcoming years to advance the Society and its programs within the spheres of higher education and public arts and humanities. The Director collaborates with the Board on strategic planning and administers programs and projects in accordance with the Society’s mission and goals.

Primary responsibilities include management of the Society’s core program areas (annual conference, publications, and prizes); internal and external communications; personnel; finances; fundraising; and special projects in support of ethnomusicology. In addition, the Director represents and advocates the Society and the field of ethnomusicology through the American Council of Learned Societies, the National Humanities Alliance, and other national and international organizations.

With approximately 1700 members, SEM is the largest ethnomusicological organization in the world. Its Business Office is based on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, and includes the Director, a full-time Program Specialist, and a part-time Graduate Assistant. The Director position is a full-time, 12-month appointment that includes the benefits package provided to Indiana University faculty. The Director is an Indiana University employee, classified as a research scholar, but reports to the SEM Board. The new Director is expected to begin work on or shortly after June 3, 2024.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in ethnomusicology or a related field (Ph.D. preferred).
  • 5+ years of non-profit administrative experience, including leadership experience.

Specific Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of current issues and trends in ethnomusicology.
  • Knowledge of current issues and trends in scholarly publishing (publishing experience preferred).
    Strong leadership skills, including the ability to mobilize volunteer service.
    Excellent communication skills, including writing, editing, public speaking, and diplomatic handling of SEM business.
  • Experience in managing conferences and publications, including the negotiation and administration of contracts.
  • Experience in financial planning/management and fundraising, including grant writing and administration.
    Ability to engage and respond to the diverse perspectives and goals of SEM’s members and partners.
    Commitment to SEM’s mission and values.

Applications:

Send cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for three references to Executive Director Search Committee, c/o [email protected]. Review of applications will begin by December 2023 and continue until the position is filled. For more information about the position, contact Stephen Stuempfle (current Executive Director) at [email protected] or (812) 855-8779.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual qualifications. Indiana University prohibits discrimination based on age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.

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