Main Purpose of job:
Responsibility for assisting Exhibition Managers/Registrars with the delivery of exhibitions at the V&A and at touring venues.
Exhibitions at the V&A shape the museum’s reputation and draw audiences in the UK and internationally, as part of the museum’s substantial touring programme. The Exhibitions Department is responsible for the programming and delivery of the V&A’s world-renowned programme of temporary exhibitions in London and abroad.
As an Exhibitions Assistant you will assist Exhibition Managers/Registrars with the delivery of exhibitions either at V&A sites or touring, working across numerous projects at any one time, depending on scale and complexity. You will work closely with internal and external project teams, liaising with many key stakeholders, including partner venues, lenders, fine art agents and exhibition designers.
This is an excellent opportunity to join the V&A’s vibrant and lively Exhibitions team, contributing to a diverse and exciting programme of exhibitions.
Fixed term contract for 6 months
Part-time (28 hours per week)
Closing date for receipt of applications is midday, 17 January 2022
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with developing, checking, updating and circulating object lists.
- Prepare and monitor schedules to ensure programmes are completed on time and budget.
- Input to Collections Management System for internal V&A loans and external loans.
- Assist with correspondence and administration for incoming loans from private and institutional lenders.
- Raise purchase orders and invoices, track payments and seek best value for money working within the parameters of the budget.
- Liaise with V&A internal departments such as Collections, Technical Services, Conservation, Photography, Security, Development and Press & Marketing.
- Liaise with external suppliers such as designers, transport agents and builder contractors.
- Assist with editing and proof-reading texts, including label copy, information panels, press releases etc.
- Assist with research and collating object and contextual images, using digital hardware and software. On some projects order/commission photographs/images, seek copyright clearance, manage AV/sound assets, record details of photographs, return photographs to owners/archives and libraries.
- Correspond as required with borrowers of V&A touring exhibitions. Assist with practical arrangements for exhibition tours including packing, transportation, installation and courier schedules.
Assist with the installation and dismantling of temporary exhibitions at the V&A and as a courier at venues in the UK or overseas. Be committed to health and safety and security and ensure familiarity with all of the Museum’s policies and procedures. - The above job description is intended to be an outline of the duties and responsibilities for this role. This is not exhaustive, and it is likely to change over time. You may be expected to undertake other duties that are commensurate with this role
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Job Specific:
- Proven experience of working in a museum, heritage or arts/events-related environment.
- Experience of project-based work with delivery to a specific deadline and budget whilst observing best practice and procedures, combined with an understanding of the principles and skills necessary for good project management.
- A self-motivator who can work equally well individually and as part of a team.
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills with strong attention to detail.
Core Skills:
- Excellent standard of written English and numeracy skills.
- Experience of communicating clearly, with the ability to adapt communication styles and deal diplomatically with a wide range of people at varying levels inside and outside the Museum and from different cultures and backgrounds.
- The ability to use MS Office and other relevant IT systems as appropriate for the role.
- Demonstrates flexibility, positivity and the ability to manage multiple tasks.
Behaviours:
- Respects others’ expertise, time, perspectives and contribution.
- Takes responsibility for delivering on actions, achieving high-standards and learning from mistakes.
- Open to change, new ideas and suggestions; looks for opportunities for improvement and self-development.
- Works with others outside their own department in a collaborative, understanding, and, engaging way.
Desirable:
• Direct experience of working on a temporary exhibition project
• Awareness of and active interest in the V&A’s UK and international profile
• Language skills
• Interest in and ability to travel within the UK and internationally.
