We believe diversity of thought and experience creates the most brilliant communities to serve our organisation, and that is why Hauser & Wirth is an equal opportunities employer.
Hauser & Wirth is one of the world’s leading commercial galleries for Modern and Contemporary art, with locations across the UK, USA, Europe and Asia. Our approach and ethos aim to make Hauser & Wirth a place where art can successfully merge with many other subjects of importance to us: architecture, craft, education, community, landscape and food, opening to the door to creative ideas and collaborations. More than an art gallery, our locations become art destinations bringing together art experiences in all their forms.
Based in London, we are seeking an experienced IP Rights Manager to lead image rights clearance across Hauser & Wirth's global business. Working closely with Marketing, Communications, Digital, Publications, Legal & Compliance and content-producing teams worldwide, you will ensure that all third-party imagery is appropriately licensed, documented and used in accordance with copyright requirements.
You will act as the organisation's specialist advisor on image rights, developing efficient clearance processes, maintaining rights records and building strong relationships with artists, estates, photographers, picture libraries and collecting societies worldwide.
Purpose of the Role
Rights Clearance & Licensing
- Manage image rights clearance requests across all Hauser & Wirth departments and locations.
- Assess copyright status and secure licences for use across print, digital, social media, exhibition and editorial channels.
- Negotiate permissions, fees and licence terms with artists, estates, photographers, agencies, museums, picture libraries and collecting societies.
- Advise colleagues on licensing conditions, attribution requirements and usage restrictions.
Stakeholder & Rights Holder Management
- Act as the primary point of contact for rights holders and licensing organisations.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, estates, picture libraries (Bridgeman Images, Getty Images, Art Resource) and collecting societies (DACS, ARS and ProLitteris) and other relevant organisations.
- Manage licence records, invoicing, renewals and rights obligations.
Governance, Policy & Training
- Develop and maintain image rights policies and clearance procedures.
- Deliver training and guidance on copyright, attribution and compliant image sourcing.
- Ensure accurate credit lines and copyright notices across all published materials.
Digital Asset & Rights Management
- Oversee image rights information within the gallery's image database.
- Maintain accurate metadata, usage rights information and licence expiry records.
- Work with Digital Assets team to ensure rights information is embedded throughout asset workflows.
Skills, Knowledge & Experience
Experience
- Minimum 5 years' experience in image rights, copyright, permissions or picture research.
- Experience negotiating licences and permissions with a range of rights holders.
- Experience working with digital asset management systems and rights databases.
- Experience operating in a fast-paced environment with multiple competing deadlines.
- Experience within the arts, publishing, cultural or creative sectors desirable.
Knowledge & Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of international copyright and image rights principles.
- Knowledge of rights clearance practices across digital, print, editorial and exhibition contexts.
- Experience maintaining image metadata and rights documentation.
- Proficiency with DAM systems and rights management tools.
Personal Attributes
- Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills.
- Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
- Able to prioritise effectively under pressure.
- Confident working independently and making informed decisions.
- Additional language skills, particularly German, French, Italian or Spanish, are advantageous.
Intellectual Property Rights Manager employer: Hauser & Wirth
Hauser & Wirth is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that thrives on creativity and innovation. As a Graphic Designer in our London gallery, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to high-profile art campaigns while working alongside passionate professionals in the contemporary art scene. We prioritise employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and encourage a strong sense of community, making it a rewarding place for those who are eager to make a meaningful impact in the art world.
