Head Registrar – The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Institution: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Deadline: April 30, 2026
Location: New York, NY, USA
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is seeking a Head Registrar to lead a team of 30+ staff managing the logistics, care, and movement of over 1.5 million objects across its collection, temporary exhibitions, touring programs, acquisitions, and loans. This senior leadership role ensures best practices in collection management, risk assessment, and international art logistics while overseeing budgeting, staffing, and policy development.
Role Highlights
-
Lead and mentor a large, diverse team including Exhibitions Registrars, Collection Registrars, Logistics, and Risk Management staff
-
Oversee domestic and international loans, acquisitions, and exhibition logistics
-
Advise on legal and regulatory matters including international art law, customs, and cultural property
-
Manage budgets, supplier relationships, and departmental planning
-
Contribute to strategic planning and sustainability initiatives
Requirements
-
Bachelor’s degree required; master’s in Museum Studies, Museum Administration, or related field preferred
-
15+ years of leadership experience in a major museum, auction house, or collection
-
Deep expertise in collection and exhibition management, international art law, and art logistics
-
Strong negotiation, management, and communication skills
-
Some domestic or international travel required
Compensation & Benefits
-
Salary range: $210,000 – $240,000 per year
-
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance
-
Retirement plans with employer matching
-
Paid leave including 13 Museum holidays
-
Commuter benefits, staff discounts, subsidized cafeteria
-
Professional development support
