Note: This call was translated from German.
Director (m/f/d) – Ludwig Forum for International Art
Organization: City of Aachen – Department of Culture
Location: Aachen, Germany
Application deadline: 23 July, 2025
The City of Aachen is seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to head the Ludwig Forum for International Art, a prominent institution for modern and contemporary art with a strong international profile. This full-time leadership role is available as soon as possible, initially for four years, with the possibility of extension under a fixed-term executive contract (§ 32 TVöD).
About the Institution
The Ludwig Forum is a vibrant interdisciplinary museum housed in a former industrial building. It brings together a significant international art collection, dynamic exhibition spaces, studios, and outdoor areas. It serves as a platform for regional and global artistic dialogue, with a strong emphasis on community engagement, education, and innovative museum practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the museum strategically, artistically, and administratively
- Shape and implement a curatorial vision with international reach and interdisciplinary ambition
- Oversee the collection, with a focus on post-1960 international art, including expansion, research, and education
- Manage audience development, digital strategy, public relations, and programming to enhance the museum’s visibility and accessibility
- Build partnerships with local, national, and international stakeholders—including the Peter and Irene Ludwig Foundation, the global Ludwig Museum network, and cultural institutions in the Euregio
- Collaborate closely with other municipal museums and cultural players
- Develop and lead fundraising and sponsorship strategies
- Promote cultural inclusion, education, and accessibility for diverse audiences
Candidate Profile
We’re looking for someone with:
- A completed master’s degree (or equivalent) in art history, cultural studies, or a related discipline
- Alternatively, comparable qualifications and experience outside public service will also be considered
- Substantial professional and leadership experience in a museum context
- Proven expertise in international contemporary art
- Strong communication, mediation, and networking skills
- Initiative, resilience, and a collaborative leadership style
- Entrepreneurial thinking, strategic and analytical abilities, and budgeting skills
- Willingness to meet the time demands of museum operations
- Experience in dealing with political or institutional stakeholders and in navigating complex negotiations
Desirable Skills
- Fundraising experience and success with sponsorship, exhibition funding, or third-party grants
- An established network in the arts and cultural sector (e.g., museums, foundations, associations)
- Familiarity with the structure and functioning of local government
What We Offer
- A leadership role in one of the region’s largest public employers (6,300 staff)
- Creative freedom and responsibility
- Flexible and family-friendly working conditions (including part-time and remote work options)
- A strong professional development and continuing education program
- Pension benefits and comprehensive health and safety support
- Job ticket for public transport
- 30 vacation days (based on a 5-day work week)
Application & Selection Process
The recruitment process includes a preliminary screening and an assessment center to evaluate leadership, social, and methodological competencies.
Application materials (motivation letter, CV, references, and certificates) may be shared with City Council members upon request. A leadership training course (D 350) is required upon appointment.
We look forward to your complete application, including your motivation, CV, diplomas, and proof of experience.
