Head of Exhibitions – maternity cover

In November 2016, the Design Museum opened the doors to its spectacular new home in Kensington. The museum’s temporary exhibitions programme is the central focus of its activities with an influential and engaging programme of paid-for temporary exhibitions and alongside its free permanent display. The exhibitions include monographs and thematic exhibitions on every aspect of contemporary design and architecture. The museum is aiming to attract in excess of 600,000 visitors to these exhibitions each year. The Head of Exhibitions is responsible for delivering this exciting exhibition programme.

Job scope

The role is responsible for delivering the exhibitions programme, working in conjunction with the Chief Curator who provides leadership on creative content, championing accessible and audience-led interpretive approaches. Other key responsibilities include oversight of the touring exhibitions strategy ensuring maximum income from this programme, championing the Design Museum nationally and internationally in partnership with the Development Team, developing key partnerships for exhibitions. Line management of the touring and project management teams, including a senior gallery technician and overall responsibility for management of the exhibitions team budget.

The person

Working with colleagues across the museum to ensure that all museum exhibitions are planned and delivered efficiently, to the highest possible curatorial standard, and are delivered on time and to budget. Extensive experience of managing all aspects of temporary exhibitions, and a proven record of working to international museum standards, and experience of contractual negotiations. Passionate about design or art history, you will have a sound knowledge of interpretation methodologies and audience needs in the context of museum exhibitions. The role will suit someone looking for an exciting opportunity in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

In addition to 25 days annual leave and 8 days bank holidays the museum offers access to a defined contribution pension scheme, season ticket loan, childcare voucher scheme, cycle to work scheme, free entry for friends and family to the museum, a variety of staff discounts including the museum shop and restaurant and free entry to a wide number of galleries and museums in London.

For further information and to apply, please visit: https://designmuseum.org/about-the-museum/work-at-the-museum