Rose Island Lighthouse & Fort Hamilton Trust announced Monday the launch of a regional search for a new executive director as the organization prepares for a landmark 2026 season marking both its 40th anniversary and the United States Semiquincentennial.
The full-time position offers an annual salary of $70,000 to $75,000 and is suited to mid-career nonprofit professionals or fundraising professionals looking to move into leadership, according to the job description.
Major initiatives are already underway for the anniversary year, including infrastructure improvements, expanded educational and public programming, and enhancements to the visitor experience.
To support the organization during the transition, the trust has engaged Heather Ruhsam of Seaworthy Consulting to serve as interim executive partner through the first quarter of 2026.
“This is a defining moment for Rose Island,” said Ryan Patrick Kelley, board president. “As we look ahead to our 40th anniversary and the nation’s Semiquincentennial, we are focused on building the right leadership and infrastructure needed to support Rose Island for decades to come.”
The executive director serves as the organization’s primary fundraiser, administrator and board partner. The role is supported by an island steward and office administrator who handle day-to-day island operations.
Candidates should have four to seven years of experience in nonprofit leadership or management, demonstrated success in fundraising and donor engagement, and experience supervising staff and managing organizational budgets.
The trust is also in the final days of its end-of-year appeal supporting ongoing operations and investments ahead of the 2026 season.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to careers@roseisland.org. The desired start date is February or early March.