The Association for Art History leads the collective effort in the UK to advance the study and professional practice of art history. Since 1974 the Association for Art History has championed art history and visual culture and supported those engaged with those subjects. Through our programmes, networks, membership, grants and publications, we celebrate and promote the value of art history and visual culture today. We bring people together to share knowledge and inspire new ideas, supporting a broad and diverse art history community. Together, we shape the future for art history.
Central to our objective is to deliver a series of programmes that serves the needs and interests of our communities and helps to encourage further engagement with the Association. We strive to increase our utility to our key constituents and continue to raise the profile of our subject, stressing its value in helping us to better understand the world around us and advocating for its importance in a well-rounded education.
About the role
The Head of Programmes conceptualises and organises the implementation of the Association for Art History’s programmes and initiatives which further our mission and serve our intended audiences. These include those in higher education, teachers at all levels of education, curators, art market professionals and anyone interested in deepening their interest in art and visual culture through art history. Principal among our offerings are a large-scale annual academic conference and an art history festival for a more general audience. Other programmes include research-based symposia and lectures as well as professional development opportunities for university students, early-career researchers and teachers. In addition, the Head of Programmes will lead on programmes/initiatives to help the Association mark and celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2024.
This is a senior role within the Association, providing the opportunity to shape our programmatic offer, play an integral role in our strategy and policy work and collaborate with our dedicated team of eight. The Head of Programmes will also liaise with our Board of Trustees, committee members and with a number of constituents and stakeholders within the field of art history nationally and internationally.
Who should apply
Candidates for this post should have five years’ of programming experience in the visual arts area or a closely related field. This can have been gained in the university, museums and galleries or education sectors. An educational background of art history or visual culture is important in this post as is a genuine desire to reach all of our various audiences.
A flexibility to work at various levels within the organisation including strategy, management and implementation is essential in a team of our size. Knowledge of fundraising schemes and direct experience with contributing to applications for programme funding is desirable.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary as is a demonstrable interest in the mission and aspirations of the Association.
Job and application particulars
To apply for this post please send a CV and cover letter outlining your interest and pertinent skills and experience by an email via the button below.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal circumstances. As part of our organisational efforts to promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in our Association and subject field, may we also encourage you to please fill out a voluntary and anonymised equalities monitoring form when submitting your application.
