Vice President of Business Development & Marketing

The Linda Hall Library, located in Kansas City, MO, is a renowned institution originating in 1946, and is one of the world’s leading independent science and technology research libraries. Through our collections, public programs, exhibitions, and research initiatives we bring science and history alive. Today, we’re redefining what Linda Hall Library can offer to the world by reimagining how we connect with our community and how we make our collections more accessible and visible. The library’s grounds are maintained as an urban arboretum where science and nature intertwine, inviting the public to wander, reflect and learn. Our vision is to enhance the library as not only a place for learning, but also a place for gathering for both private and public events; to see the library as a living, breathing place where tradition and innovation meet whether you’re an academic, lifelong learner or anyone with a curiosity about the world.  

As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Vice President (VP) of Business Development & Marketing will lead the library’s strategy for earned revenue, marketing, and communications; developing and implementing creative, commercially sound initiatives that reflect the library’s mission. Areas of focus include retail, rentals, merchandising, events, marketing strategy, brand positioning, communications, and external partnerships. The role balances strategic vision with hands-on execution, with a focus on audience growth, public visibility, and long-term profitability.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Business Development department including creation of bold new business development initiatives and the strategic transformation of the library’s marketing and communications functions.
• Align the marketing strategy with business development goals to support public engagement, brand visibility, and the library’s earned revenue objectives.
• Build and drive profitable income streams from concept to launch through data-informed strategies across retail, events, venue rentals, services, and digital initiatives; including pricing and booking systems to full event execution and client experience.
• Launch and manage the library’s retail outlet, including merchandising, operations, and customer engagement strategies.
• Apply customer segmentation and market expertise to recognize opportunities and experiment with new ideas and use data, segmentation, and KPIs to guide decision-making, measure success, and refine marketing approaches.
• Collaborate across teams and with external partners to ensure seamless execution and alignment with institutional goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, entrepreneurship, or related field required.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience, with significant commercial or entrepreneurial experience, including accomplishments in building and transforming businesses and revenue units from scratch.
• Demonstrated success in leading data-informed marketing and revenue strategies and the ability to evaluate return on investment using appropriate tools. 
• Experience working at the executive level and in partnership with board or senior leadership.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to engage effectively internally and externally with a collaborative and respectful style.   
• Supremely creative, entrepreneurial, well organized, and adaptable.   
• Experience with Salesforce, Pardot and Splash tools helpful.
• Background in cultural, non-profit or mission-driven organizations, and/or prior experience in startups, incubators, or complex revenue portfolios is highly desired.
• Ability to travel (5-10%) to attend conferences, partner institutions and merchandise buying trips.

Benefits & Workplace

Linda Hall Library is embarking on a pivotal phase in its history offering a significant spirit of innovation and collaboration and the opportunity to make a difference as a leader. The library is committed to fostering a culture of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion and creates a space where all individuals feel valued and respected. They offer a highly competitive compensation and benefits package including a generous PTO Plan, strong 403(b) match, and a paid parental leave program.  Professional Development is supported through training, conferences, and professional memberships. The role is based in a traditional office environment with flexibility of up to one remote workday per week. Presence at key events, board meetings, and public engagements can be required in the evenings and weekends. Linda Hall Library is in the cultural heart of the city, within walking distance of Kansas City’s leading museums, parks, and top local restaurants and shopping destinations.

OMNI is honored to be retained in this search. We appreciate your referrals to professionals who may have an interest in this outstanding opportunity. Formal interest accepted through the OMNI Executive Career Portal. Please direct all inquiries to:

OMNI Human Resource Solutions

Ann Cripe, Senior Search Consultant – acripe@omnihrm.com

OMNI and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers.