At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the care and access of a diverse collection of prints and drawings.
- Company: Join the British Museum, a historic institution with a commitment to accessibility.
- Benefits: Enjoy free exhibition entry, 25 days leave, and discounts at local partners.
- Other info: Be part of a transformative journey in one of the world's leading museums.
- Why this job: Work hands-on with iconic artworks and contribute to exciting exhibitions.
- Qualifications: Organised, practical, and passionate about collections care and public engagement.
The predicted salary is between 29642 - 29642 € per year.
This is a hands-on opportunity to work in the British Museum's Prints and Drawings Department, supporting the care, access and movement of a collection that covers the period from 1400 to today. As Assistant Collection Manager, you will help ensure works on paper are safely stored, documented, displayed and made accessible for study, loans and exhibitions. The role combines study room supervision, loans and display work, storage projects and some courier activity in a dynamic museum environment.
About you
You are practical, organised and keen to work closely with artworks, with a strong interest in collections care and access. You understand the importance of careful handling, accurate documentation and best practice when working with works on paper. A confident team player and clear communicator, you are comfortable engaging with curators, researchers and the public, and remain calm and professional in busy environments. Whether you bring prior museum experience or are developing your career in collections management, you are motivated by working with a collection that bridges historic and contemporary art.
Key areas of responsibility
- Supply and supervise objects for the Study Room, providing a welcoming and professional service to researchers and visitors.
- Support the movement, packing, installation and display of works on paper for galleries, storage, loans and exhibitions.
- Assist with loans and touring exhibitions, including acting as a UK or international courier.
- Monitor the security and condition of objects in storage, transit and on display, always following best practice.
- Maintain accurate collection documentation, including location tracking, condition reports and photography.
- Support collections audits, mountmaking, and wider Care & Access projects across the department.
The Masterplan
The British Museum is undertaking its biggest transformation since its founding nearly 300 years ago. This physical and intellectual transformation includes large scale building and gallery transformation, new ways of connecting with audiences and different ways of working. As we look towards this exciting future, we remain guided by the words of our founder Hans Sloane - who dreamed of a museum connecting all arts and sciences, which would be accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Benefits
- Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years).
- Discounts at onsite catering, Museum shops and local Bloomsbury partners.
- Social and wellbeing perks including Staff parties, social clubs, CSSC sports and leisure, and support from the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship.
- Peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community.
- Learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications.
- Employee Assistance Programme available 24/7 for counselling, wellbeing support and more.
- Eyecare vouchers for VDU tests and contributions toward glasses.
- Enhanced parental leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- Support for carers through Employers for Carers.
- Civil Service Pension Scheme with a secure, inflation-linked defined benefit.
- Interest-free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans.
Our Values
Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered: Care Deeply, Embrace the Unknown, Spark Curiosity, Value Many Voices. These are a core part of how we recruit. Throughout the application, interview and selection process, we look for examples of how candidates demonstrate these behaviours in their own work and experiences. We encourage you to familiarise yourself with our values and reflect them in your application.
If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of to support you with your application, please provide details. *Unfortunately, for this role we are unable to offer Sponsorship to applicants.* The Museum also adheres to the HMG Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) for pre-employment screening of Civil Servants.
Assistant Collection Manager: Care and Access (Prints and Drawings) - London employer: THE BRITISH MUSEUM
The British Museum is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and fosters professional growth. With generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, free exhibition access, and extensive learning opportunities, employees are supported in their personal and professional development while engaging with a world-renowned collection in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Collection Manager: Care and Access (Prints and Drawings) - London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the British Museum and its collections inside out! Familiarise yourself with the Prints and Drawings Department, the artists featured, and the types of works on paper they handle. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend museum events, exhibitions, or talks related to prints and drawings. Engaging with curators and fellow art enthusiasts can open doors and give you insider tips on the application process. Plus, it’s a great way to show your passion for the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As an Assistant Collection Manager, you'll need to interact with researchers and the public. Role-play common scenarios or questions you might face in the job. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t forget to highlight how your values align with ours in your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Collection Manager: Care and Access (Prints and Drawings) - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Collections:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for collections care and access. Share any experiences or interests that connect you to the world of prints and drawings, and how you can contribute to our mission at the British Museum.
Be Organised and Clear:We love a well-structured application! Make sure your CV and cover letter are easy to read and clearly outline your relevant skills and experiences. Highlight your organisational abilities and attention to detail, as these are key in this role.
Reflect Our Values:Take a moment to familiarise yourself with our values: Care Deeply, Embrace the Unknown, Spark Curiosity, and Value Many Voices. We want to see how you embody these in your work and experiences, so weave them into your application where possible.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits there.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE BRITISH MUSEUM
✨Know Your Collection
Familiarise yourself with the Prints and Drawings collection, especially key artists like Michelangelo and contemporary figures like Andy Warhol. Being able to discuss specific works or exhibitions will show your genuine interest and knowledge in the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Practical Skills
Prepare examples of how you've handled artworks or managed collections in the past. Whether it's about careful handling or accurate documentation, showcasing your practical experience will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with Their Values
The British Museum values care, curiosity, and inclusivity. Think of instances from your past where you embodied these values. Sharing these stories will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the museum's future plans. Inquire about their upcoming exhibitions or how they envision the transformation of the museum. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in the institution's mission.
