Preservation Project Manager

Historical Preservation Project Manager, Tidewater & Big Bend Foundation / Cumberland Estate

The Historic Preservation Project Manager will lead day-to-day operations and support the continued development of Cumberland Estate and its nonprofit sister organization, the Tidewater & Big Bend Foundation. Together, these organizations steward a rapidly growing 6,300+ acre enterprise dedicated to land and building conservation, historic restoration, farming, and upland bird hunting.

We are seeking a seasoned professional with a proven record of stewarding historic properties, delivering complex projects on schedule, building and managing skilled teams of craftsmen, and balancing mission-driven work with operational excellence. In addition to its preservation and educational mission, the organization operates a hospitality business that includes guest accommodations, hunting activities, private events, and business conferences.

A central objective of this role is to bring rural structures and traditions of Tidewater Virginia to life, spanning the colonial period through the late 19th century—akin to Colonial Williamsburg, reimagined in a rural setting.

The Project Manager is responsible for coordinating multiple projects simultaneously to deliver high-quality work that adheres to defined scopes and deadlines. The ideal candidate will have knowledge and experience with historic building methods, materials, and familiarity with gardens, art, and furnishings. Working knowledge of building mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems is essential. This position reports directly to the Executive Director of the Tidewater & Big Bend Foundation / Cumberland Estate.

• Understand complex historic project scopes and requirements.
• Review architectural, landscaping, and art/furnishing plans.
• Conduct historic research, including review of primary documents, archaeology (when available), and archival records.
• Organize and manage multiple work streams, identifying bottlenecks, dependencies, and risks.
• Inspect projects to ensure quality and compliance with plans and standards.
• Engage directly with contractors to communicate project requirements and expectations.
• Lead contractor selection processes and manage project bidding.
• Collaborate closely with historic designers and craftsmen to develop furnishing plans, repair antique furniture and artifacts, and support related logistics.
• Document project progress through photographs and written reports.
• Maintain accurate checklists, schedules, and reporting for all project processes.
• Monitor historic structures for ongoing maintenance needs and emerging issues.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience working with historic structures, art, furnishings, and artifacts.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience leading projects.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies.
• Working knowledge of contracts and construction processes.
• Demonstrated passion for historic preservation in Tidewater Virginia.
• Coursework in history, architectural history, decorative arts, or landscape architecture is a plus.