Director of Curatorial Affairs

MITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

DIRECTOR OF CURATORIAL AFFAIRS

The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, (NPG) seeks a creative museum leader with expertise in art history at the doctoral / Ph.D. level or equivalent masters-level with a minimum of 10 years of active curatorial practice and management-level museum experience.

Our ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the United States—past and present—and a passion for making connections between art and culture. They possess a sense of adventure and creativity with a sophisticated understanding of art, history, curatorial principles and institutional practices. They have a recognized history of championing the principals of DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Access and Inclusion) in their curatorial practice. Applicants must demonstrate experience converting exciting ideas into working programs and inventive exhibitions and building a collection of national significance for future generations. As a member of the Executive Team they should be able to demonstrate their collaborative managerial approach, flexibility, collegiality, and enthusiasm for engaging a diverse community through art and creativity.

Applicants must have superior presentation and public speaking skills, as well as the ability to demonstrate strong leadership presence. They must be able to take a leadership role in promoting the importance of American history, art and culture which requires constant engagement with a variety of stakeholders, including the museum’s Board of Commissioners, Collections Committee, colleagues, press, donors, external partners, as well as the general public.

Candidates must hold themselves and their work to the highest ethical standards. Strategic thinking, financial acumen, organizational effectiveness, and a passion for staff development are fundamental functions of the position. 

This position is open to all U.S. Citizens or U.S. Nationals. Note: Federal employees with permanent status or individuals eligible for special appointing authorities may also apply to Job Announcement #21A-JW-306007-MPA-NPG.

Click or paste the following link in a web browser to apply for the position on USAJobs: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/583742300

Current or former competitive service federal employees may apply for the position on USAJobs by clicking or pasting the following link in a web browser:
https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/583746800

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The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.