I landed a career changing position by calling a friend that was leaving a great job. I would have ended my career in this wonderful place had I not been enticed to go to the "big school world." I would say that if you are truly interested, "you can't make the shots that you don't shoot." I think that most older directors will understand what you are asking because they know the game REALLY well by this point. Just be really nice when you're asking. A couple of compliments about what they've done in small talk before asking would be a great idea. Best of luck.