Executive Director

Approaching its centenary anniversary in 2027, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (The Ringling) seeks an executive director endowed with the imagination, experience, and energy to ensure the next 100 years of a beloved dynamic cultural complex. Vibrant, stable, popular, and vast, thanks to a mutually beneficial partnership with Florida State University (FSU), the long-term leadership of Steven High, and the dedication and support of board, staff, and community, The Ringling is positioned for yet greater impact, recognition, and success in its next chapter.

A unique institution on 66 bayfront acres encompassing a renowned art museum and collection, the Circus Museum, the 56-room Ca’ d’Zan mansion, the Historic Asolo Theater, extensive archives, the Tibbals Learning Center, arboreta and botanic gardens, the Executive Director serves as the conductor of a multifaceted enterprise where art, visitor experience, scholarship, education, performance, preservation, fundraising, and community engagement intersect. Success in this role requires the ability to navigate complexity, build alignment among stakeholders with differing perspectives and priorities, and foster collaboration across disciplines and departments. At a positive and pivotal moment in its history, The Ringling seeks a leader who can build upon its extraordinary momentum and assets to chart an ambitious course for the future—preserving and enhancing one of Florida’s greatest cultural treasures while expanding its capacity to educate, entertain, inspire and serve generations to come.

Isaacson, Miller has been retained by Florida State University and The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Foundation, Inc. Inquiries, nominations, and applications may be directed to the firm as indicated below.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent below.

Sean Farrell and Sarah James are leading this search with Berlinda Mojica and Drew Chang.

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.