The American Center of Oriental Research (ACOR) seeks a Director to lead a wide-ranging research program that orchestrates extensive partnerships with U.S. and Jordanian government agencies, universities, and academics.

Founded in 1968, ACOR has worked at the forefront of international efforts to increase understanding of Jordan past and present and to make Jordan’s cultural heritage a source of economic development. In 2014, ACOR launched the Sustainable Cultural Heritage Through Engagement of Local Communities Project (USAID SCHEP), which helps communities around archaeological sites throughout Jordan to harness their own heritage to create educational and economic opportunities.

ACOR also holds the best library for archaeology and Middle Eastern studies in Jordan, the only place for scholars to access JSTOR, and hostel accommodations for fellows, researchers, and other visitors using its unique resources.

Today ACOR seeks to extend a period of growth that has fostered an atmosphere of openness and accessibility, joint community ventures, and a focus on close mentorship and practical training. ACOR’s planned leadership transition offers an opportunity for the organization to take a fresh look at these initiatives and to extend them in new directions.

The new Director will draw on considerable resources—including government relationships, support from the Board of Trustees, and an active Fellowships Committee–to set ACOR’s strategic course for a next generation of scholars and students devoted to Jordan’s cultural history and to understanding the social and economic issues Jordan faces in the modern world.

The ideal candidate will have:

• At least 10 years of distinguished work experience in: academia, cultural resources management, foreign affairs, business, or non-profit organization management.
• At least 5 years of experience managing staff.
• Ph.D. or equivalent in fields including but not limited to Middle Eastern studies, archaeology, history, art history sociology, political science, or anthropology.
• Familiarity with the principles of archaeological preservation and conservation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and organize staff to achieve and exceed goals.
• Ability to maintain a positive, collegial, and collaborative work environment.
• Strong organizational abilities, including planning, delegating, and assessment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Sophisticated ability to navigate cross-cultural encounters and exchanges.
• Strong interest in making a home in Jordan and working with Jordanians.
• Arabic language skills are highly desirable.