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- Tasks: Lead creative projects that blend science, art, and heritage for engaging visitor experiences.
- Company: Join Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to plant science and conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, wellness support, and discounts on gyms and museums.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global conservation while working in a vibrant, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in natural sciences or related field; experience in science-based interpretation is essential.
- Other info: Interviews start on 26 June; remote work options available based on needs.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Success in this role will bring together science, horticulture, art and heritage for visitors, ensuring that we deliver world-class experiences while building understanding of the importance of plants and fungi to all life on earth. It will drive people to visit the sites physically and virtually, recommend their experience to others, and raise the profile of Kew’s global science and conservation work.
You will be a proven creative talent with the vision, drive and ambition to succeed, combined with an ability to work collaboratively across Kew’s directorates to deliver tangible, high-quality, audience-focused interpretive outputs within set timeframes and budgets. You will be a strong project manager able to juggle multiple work streams.
You will be educated to degree level (or equivalent) in the natural / environmental sciences, horticulture, botany, museum studies or a related discipline, and/or have significant experience of science-based interpretation for diverse audiences. Your work will be grounded in an understanding of cultural heritage interpretation theory as well as visitor evaluation.
Extensive experience developing and delivering a range of interpretation and/or public engagement techniques is essential, as is the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible content.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
About Us: The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Interpretation
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Kew's mission and recent projects. Understanding their focus on plant science and conservation will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to showcase your project management skills. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully managed multiple work streams, especially in a creative or interpretive context.
✨Tip Number 3
Think about how you can translate complex scientific concepts into engaging content. Have examples ready that demonstrate your ability to make science accessible to diverse audiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field of horticulture and museum studies. Engaging with others can provide insights and potentially valuable connections that may help you stand out in the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Interpretation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Head of Interpretation position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these requirements.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your extensive experience in developing interpretation and public engagement techniques. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully translated complex scientific concepts into accessible content for diverse audiences.
Highlight Collaborative Skills: Since the role requires collaboration across various directorates, make sure to mention any past experiences where you worked effectively in a team. Discuss how you contributed to achieving common goals and delivering high-quality outputs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for horticulture, science, and cultural heritage. Explain why you are excited about the opportunity at Kew and how you can contribute to their mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
✨Showcase Your Creative Vision
As a candidate for the Head of Interpretation, it's crucial to demonstrate your creative talent and vision. Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully combined science, art, and heritage to engage diverse audiences.
✨Understand Kew's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Kew's mission and current initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals of protecting plants and fungi, and how you can contribute to raising their profile globally.
✨Highlight Project Management Skills
Since this role requires juggling multiple work streams, be prepared to discuss your project management experience. Share specific examples of how you've managed budgets and timelines while delivering high-quality outputs.
✨Translate Science into Accessible Content
Given the need to make complex scientific concepts accessible, think of ways you've done this in the past. Prepare to discuss techniques you've used to engage various audiences and how you would apply them at Kew.
