At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage exciting exhibitions and ensure a welcoming gallery experience for all visitors.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, health support, and perks like gym discounts and childcare allowances.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative cultural experiences that engage diverse audiences and promote public engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and a passion for cultural production is essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
This is a full time, fixed term role (18 months) on Crick’s terms & conditions.
About us
The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world‑class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure, cutting‑edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high‑quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.
About the role
We are seeking a highly organised and collaborative Exhibitions Project Manager & Gallery Operations Manager to play a central role in delivering exceptional public‑facing cultural experiences at the Francis Crick Institute. This is a unique hybrid role that combines the day‑to‑day operations of a busy gallery and exhibition café with project management support for an ambitious exhibitions programme.
In the gallery operations aspect of the role, you will ensure the space is welcoming, inclusive, and safe for all visitors, supporting a high‑quality front‑of‑house experience. You will coordinate closely with internal teams to ensure the smooth running of daily activities, maintaining clear communication across stakeholders and supporting the effective delivery of services within the gallery and café. You will work closely with colleagues and partners, helping to align priorities and resolve operational challenges as they arise.
Alongside this, you will support the exhibitions programme through hands‑on project management and administration. This includes coordinating schedules and programmes, supporting budget tracking, and producing key documentation such as meeting minutes, reports, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including senior leadership. You will also assist with contract administration, drafting and processing agreements with contractors, managing invoices, and maintaining accurate and accessible project records. Attention to detail and strong organisational skills are essential, as you will ensure critical information is available when needed and that projects progress efficiently through their key milestones.
We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in cultural production and public engagement, who is comfortable working in a front‑facing environment and understands how to create spaces that are accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. You will bring a solid understanding of project management principles, with the ability to apply them flexibly within creative contexts. Experience working in agile or iterative creative environments will be valuable, as will the ability to navigate complex projects involving multiple stakeholders. You will be a proactive problem solver, able to identify blockers, work collaboratively to resolve them, and keep projects moving forward while meeting fixed deadlines and key milestones.
What you will be doing
- Exhibition project management
- Project manage the development and delivery of exhibitions through all stages, from scoping through to project initiation, design, installation, public use, and de‑installation.
- Develop and manage project programmes, ensuring work packages are clearly defined, assigned and delivered.
- Manage calendars to coordinate project meetings and/or reviews with stakeholders.
- Create and circulate agendas for meetings and disseminate minutes/key notes and actions.
- Manage the exhibition budget, including forecasting, cost planning, and timely and accurate reporting.
- Gallery operations
- Oversee day‑to‑day gallery and gallery host management, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive visitor experience.
- Monitor exhibition stock and exhibits, gallery and café equipment, ensuring inventories are up to date and any non‑functional elements are repaired/replaced when necessary.
- Lead on exhibition and gallery storage management, conducting regular audits and rationalisation to ensure efficient organisation and/or responsible disposal of equipment and materials.
- Manage the gallery budget, including forecasting, cost planning, and timely and accurate reporting.
- Work with internal Crick operations teams to maintain and/or provide access to gallery spaces and operational systems.
About you
- Demonable experience of project managing exhibitions in a cultural organisation (museum, gallery, heritage, arts, science or discovery centres) of any size.
- Demonable experience of use of standard project management processes, controls and documentation on any project.
- Demonable experience of fiscal management, covering budget management, financial tracking, procurement and cost control.
- Demonable experience of commissioning and working with a wide variety of creative contractors, such as designers, interactive developers and media producers.
- Demonable knowledge or experience of visitor experience and visitor‑facing operations.
- Excellent organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills.
What will you receive?
- Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
- Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
- Health & Well‑being: 24/7 GP consultation services; Occupational health services and mental health support programs; Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
- Work‑Life Balance: Back‑up care for dependents; Childcare support allowance; Annual leave purchase options; Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.
- Perks: Discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, and shopping discounts; Subsidised on‑site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances.
Exhibitions Project Manager & Gallery Operations Manager employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and creativity in the heart of biomedical research. With generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and comprehensive health and well-being support, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The institute's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that all staff feel valued and supported, making it an ideal place for those passionate about cultural production and public engagement.
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Exhibitions Project Manager & Gallery Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the exhibitions and gallery scene. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your project management experience and how you've successfully navigated complex projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and organisational skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the Francis Crick Institute and its exhibitions programme. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your background aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re all about!
We think you need these skills to ace Exhibitions Project Manager & Gallery Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Exhibitions Project Manager & Gallery Operations Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in project management and gallery operations, and show us how your skills align with our mission at the Crick.
Show Your Passion:We love candidates who are genuinely interested in cultural production and public engagement. Use your application to express your enthusiasm for creating inclusive and engaging spaces for diverse audiences. Let us see your personality shine through!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Make sure to include all the key information about your experience and skills without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Exhibitions Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the exhibitions that the Francis Crick Institute has hosted. Familiarise yourself with their themes, objectives, and any notable collaborations. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of past projects you've managed, especially in cultural settings. Highlight your ability to coordinate schedules, manage budgets, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of instances where you've faced challenges in project management or gallery operations. Be ready to discuss how you identified blockers and worked collaboratively to resolve them. This will illustrate your proactive approach and adaptability in dynamic environments.
✨Engage with Their Culture
The Crick values collaboration and creativity, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this culture. Share your thoughts on creating inclusive and engaging spaces for diverse audiences, and express your enthusiasm for working in a team-oriented environment.
