Independence Historical Trust (the Trust) is entering its next chapter with a just-completed signature restoration, sound finances, and a Board in active expansion. Founded in 1972 as the first Friends organization in the history of the National Park Service, the Trust is the official philanthropic partner of Independence National Historical Park, home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and more than 54 historic acres. Over five decades, it has acquired more than 1,000 artifacts for the Park's collections, funded the rehabilitation of historic buildings and landscapes, and delivered free public programming, culminating in the First Bank of the United States reopening on July 1, 2026, following a $43M restoration. The incoming President & CEO will build on this history and standing to lead the Trust through a period of deliberate growth as the nation looks ahead to the 250th anniversary of the Constitution in 2037.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive who pairs fundraising results with political judgment and who is comfortable closing a major gift, partnering with the Park Superintendent, testifying before public officials, and walking the Park with a supporter. This is an opportunity to lead a lean organization with an outsized footprint and convert a generational moment of visibility into durable institutional strength for the places where our nation’s founding ideals were first articulated.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range is $180,000-$220,000. The range provided is an estimate and will be evaluated on an individual basis, taking into consideration the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and education.
Independence Historical Trust offers a competitive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, fully matched to 3% and half matched to 5%
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee
- 10 paid vacation days, 10 sick days, and 2 personal days annually
- Professional development support for programs, seminars, workshops, and coursework that build job-related skills
- $50 monthly cell phone reimbursement
Location
The President & CEO works from the Trust's offices in historic Philadelphia, adjacent to Independence National Historical Park. This position is not eligible for remote work. The role requires consistent presence in the Park and the surrounding historic district, flexibility to attend evening and weekend events, including donor events, the annual gala, public programming, and civic and commemorative occasions, and occasional regional and national travel.
Start Date
Early 2027
To Apply
Select "Apply Here" below. Applications should include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications that match the position criteria and what you will bring to the role.
Interested and qualified candidates should apply by November 22, 2026 for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.
For More Information
For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Andrew Leider, Potrero Group Managing Director and Search Lead, at aleider@potrerogroup.com.
More information about Independence Historical Trust can be found at inht.org.
