Executive Director

Location: Portsmouth, NH
Type: Full Time – Hybrid
Salary Range: $80,000 – $110,000
Ideal Start Date: September
(Applications reviewed on a rolling basis)

Overview of PCMS
Port City Makerspace (PCMS) is a welcoming and inclusive nonprofit community workshop that provides tools, knowledge, and a collaborative culture to encourage the artist and maker in everyone. Since opening our doors in 2012 and incorporating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2014, we’ve served as a creative and technical hub for the greater New Hampshire Seacoast.

With roughly 300 active monthly members, we offer hands-on learning and open-access workspaces to artists, craftspeople, hobbyists, educators, entrepreneurs, and lifelong learners of all skill levels. Each month, we host dozens of classes and workshops across our ten dedicated shops covering nine disciplines: Wood; Metal; Machine; Auto; Bike; Electronics; CNC; Soft Crafts; and Pottery.
 

Position Overview
Port City Makerspace seeks an experienced and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and sustainability. This is the first full-time executive leadership role at the Makerspace, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of a beloved and fast-growing institution.

The ED will be responsible for strategic leadership, day-to-day operations, fundraising, financial management, and external relations. They will work in close partnership with the Board of Directors, General Manager, volunteers, and the broader community to expand impact and ensure long-term resilience.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Board to set long-term strategy aligned with community needs and organizational capacity.
• Evaluate, refine, and grow programs, partnerships, and operations in service of the Makerspace’s mission.
• Strengthen outreach and partnerships to grow membership and enhance engagement.
• Lead all development efforts, including individual giving, sponsorships, annual appeals, and grant writing.
• Cultivate and solicit 4, 5, and 6-figure gifts from individuals, foundations, and businesses.
• Manage the organization’s annual budget and ensure financial transparency and sustainability.
• Maintain strong communication with the Board and support Board development, planning, and governance.
• Oversee the development and quality of educational programming, including public classes and custom partnerships.
• Direct external communications strategy, including newsletters, social media, the website, and media relations.
• Represent PCMS publicly at events, in the media, and in civic and business forums.
• Supervise and support staff, fostering a collaborative team environment and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Promote a collaborative and inclusive culture that reflects the values of PCMS.
   

Desired Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, education, community development, or a related field.
• Outstanding communication skills and the ability to engage diverse stakeholders with diplomacy, passion, and clarity.
• Demonstrated expertise in financial oversight, budgeting, and revenue strategy for a mission-driven organization.
• Proven success in soliciting and securing 4, 5, and 6-figure gifts from individual donors, foundations, or corporate sponsors.
• Experience leading membership-based, volunteer-driven, or creative/technical communities.
   

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $80,000 – $110,000, commensurate with experience.
• Flexible PTO and holidays.
• Free Port City Makerspace membership and full access to shop spaces.
• Opportunity to lead a passionate community of makers, learners, and educators in a values-driven organization.