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- Tasks: Manage a diverse collection and curate exciting exhibitions across four attractions.
- Company: Join a vibrant Heritage Service in the heart of Guildford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Lead innovative projects while preserving cultural heritage and engaging with the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in collections management and team leadership is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 41110 - 48519 £ per year.
We are looking for a confident and experienced Collections and Exhibitions Manager to join our Heritage Service as maternity cover. The role is responsible for our collection of over 100,000 objects and our exhibitions and activities programme across our four attractions; Guildford Museum, Castle, Guildhall and Guildford House.
The successful candidate will be able to work proactively, flexibly and efficiently to support our small team delivering curated exhibitions, collections care and development, loans in/out whilst maintaining all relevant industry standards.
In addition, the role is responsible for the relocation of our off-site stores which will happen in the summer of 2026. This encompasses rationalisation and disposal of objects according to our own, and industry, policies, processes and standards, as well as all logistics to move the majority of our collection of objects to our new stores.
The Collections and Exhibitions Manager will be directly responsible for two direct reports, and have suitable experience in managing and supporting a small team.
Our ideal candidate will have a friendly attitude, the ability to work flexibly across sites and workstreams, and be able to successfully manage our stores relocation, working with council colleagues to do so.
Appointment Type Fixed Term Position Full Time/Part Time Full-time Contract length 10-12 months Job Category Culture and Heritage Services Hours 37 Location Guildford Museum, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3SX Salary Min Grade 6 – £41,110 Salary Max Grade 6 – £48,519
About Guildford
Guildford is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, shopping and culture set in beautiful countryside that includes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guildford is a thriving market town and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night time economy.
We are an equal opportunity and Disability Confident employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment.
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Collections & Exhibitions Manager employer: Guildford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Guildford Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Collections & Exhibitions Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the heritage and museum sector, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for collections management and exhibitions. Share your ideas on how you could enhance their programme and make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its current exhibitions. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially regarding collections care and team management. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our exciting projects in Guildford.
We think you need these skills to ace Collections & Exhibitions Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Heritage: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for culture and heritage shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission and how you can contribute to our exhibitions and collections.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; tell us about specific projects you've managed or challenges you've overcome. We love details that show how you’ve successfully handled collections and exhibitions in the past.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for this role. Highlight your skills in managing teams and logistics, especially regarding collections care and relocation, as these are key aspects of the job we’re offering.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with our Heritage Service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guildford Borough Council
✨Know Your Collections
Familiarise yourself with the collection of over 100,000 objects. Understand the significance of key pieces and be ready to discuss how you would approach their care and development. This shows your passion and preparedness for the role.
✨Exhibition Experience Matters
Be prepared to share specific examples of exhibitions you've managed or contributed to. Highlight your ability to curate engaging displays and how you’ve worked with teams to deliver successful projects. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience in a similar environment.
✨Team Management Skills
Since you'll be managing two direct reports, think about your leadership style and be ready to discuss how you support and develop your team. Share examples of how you've successfully led a small team in the past, focusing on collaboration and flexibility.
✨Logistics and Planning Know-How
With the upcoming relocation of off-site stores, show that you understand the logistics involved. Discuss any relevant experience you have with collections management, rationalisation, and disposal processes, as well as how you would ensure compliance with industry standards during this transition.
