Seasoned Museum Executive Jennifer Caballero Appointed Executive Director of Pasadena-Based California Association of Museums

Jennifer Caballero has been selected as the new Executive Director of the Pasadena-based California Association of Museums (CAM), according to an announcement made by the Association earlier this month. Caballero, who assumed the position on February 17, 2023, was chosen following an executive search process led by Arts Consulting Group.

Caballero is stepping into the role of Executive Director at the CAM upon completing her tenure as the association’s Interim Executive Director. Previously, she was the President of the CAM’s Board of Directors.

The California Association of Museums (CAM) is a professional community of individuals and organizations that aims to create a brighter future for museums and their communities. CAM’s institutional members are located throughout California and include historical societies, cultural centers, art museums, botanical gardens, science centers, tribal museums, zoos, aquariums, and children’s museums. The organization’s mission is to lead California museums and advance the museum community.

Caballero has extensive experience in the arts and culture sector, having served in various senior capacities across the industry. Her work has centered around strategic marketing, advertising, media relations, community outreach, sponsorship negotiation, and audience research.

She served as Marketing Director for Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena in 2006.

Caballero most recently served as Marketing Director at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, California, where she identified promotional opportunities, developed and executed multi-channeled marketing campaigns, and supervised strategic partnerships, including media sponsorships. She has also served as the President of Executive Team at SoCal Museums, where she spearheaded the initiative that evolved the group from an informal quarterly gathering of colleagues into a federally recognized 501(c)(6) organization.

In making the announcement, Chair of the Search Committee Solimar Salas said, “We are confident that Jennifer will capitalize on CAM’s strengths and lead the organization to new heights as the museum field continues to reshuffle post-pandemic. She demonstrated her abilities as Interim Director, in particular, strongly advocating on behalf of California museums in Sacramento. The Board of Directors and I are confident that as the Executive Director, Jennifer will take bold new steps to further the work of CAM.”

“I’m excited to become CAM’s next permanent leader, to direct our staff and large group of dedicated volunteers to achieve the goals that CAM has set forth, as well as look ahead to chart a course for CAM to expand in terms of relevance and access for new audiences and enhanced brand recognition,” said Caballero.

According to ACG Vice President Geoff Chang, “Jennifer is a collaborative and people-orientated leader who will guide the CAM with a deep commitment to its mission to support the success of California museums and their communities.”