At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of National Museums NI and enhance public engagement.
- Company: National Museums NI, a vital public institution with a rich cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and the chance to shape the future of museums.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equality and innovation in the cultural sector.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in how museums connect with communities and audiences.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in senior management with expertise in financial and corporate governance.
The predicted salary is between 88268 - 97070 € per year.
Salary: £88,268 – £97,070
National Museums NI is a public institution working for the benefit of all. We hold our collections in trust for current and future generations, ensuring they remain accessible, relevant and meaningful. Almost one million people visit our four museums each year, and through loans, research, community engagement and digital programmes we reach an even wider audience. Our museums are Here for Good—playing a vital role at the heart of society.
In recent years, we have delivered an ambitious transformation programme focused on maximising public value, re‑examining the role of museums today, and reshaping how we connect with audiences, partners and stakeholders. To realise our long‑term ambitions, we have secured £75 million in capital investment to enhance our sites and collections stores, improve access, transform the visitor experience and strengthen public value. This includes the Reawakening project at the Ulster Folk Museum, the Journey Ahead project at the Ulster American Folk Park, and major upgrades to our collections storage facilities.
We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to join our Executive Leadership Team and help deliver our 2025–2030 Corporate Strategy. The COO will ensure the organisation operates efficiently and effectively, providing strong leadership, robust financial management and high standards of corporate governance. The role also oversees key corporate support services including estates, HR and organisational development, digital and ICT, and plays a central part in shaping organisational direction.
To apply you are required to be able to demonstrate at least 5 years’ experience in a senior management role with significant experience in financial management and corporate governance as well as change management and leading business support services.
For further detail on the remit and requirements for the role please visit Clarendon Executive website to download the candidate briefing pack including the application form. For a confidential discussion please contact Claire McKee. Application is by submission of completed application form by 10am, Monday 8 June 2026.
National Museums NI is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Chief Operating Officer , National Museums NI in Belfast employer: Clarendon Executive
National Museums NI is an exceptional employer dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape and making a meaningful impact on society. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and significant investment in enhancing our facilities, we offer a unique opportunity for professionals to lead transformative initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences. Join us in shaping the future of our museums while enjoying a supportive environment that values innovation and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer , National Museums NI in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation inside out. Understand their mission, recent projects, and challenges they face. This will help us tailor our responses and show we’re genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We want to ensure we present ourselves as the best fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows our enthusiasm for the role and keeps us on their radar. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why we’re the right choice!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer , National Museums NI in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and what National Museums NI is all about. Dive into their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to highlight your achievements and skills. Remember, we want to see your strengths without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Showcase Relevant Experience:Make sure to highlight your senior management experience, especially in financial management and corporate governance. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and how you've successfully managed change in previous roles. We love a good story that shows your impact!
Check Your Work:Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough once-over. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and ensure all sections are complete. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a COO role. And don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clarendon Executive
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand National Museums NI's mission and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their transformation programme and how it aligns with their 2025–2030 Corporate Strategy. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your leadership skills, particularly in financial management and corporate governance. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led change management initiatives and improved business support services.
✨Engage with Their Vision
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to enhancing public value. Discuss ideas on how to improve visitor experiences and community engagement, showing that you’re not just a fit for the role but also passionate about their mission.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the challenges facing museums today. Inquire about their plans for the Reawakening project or how they measure success in their community engagement efforts. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the organisation's future.
