At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the care and development of our diverse art collections and engage audiences creatively.
- Company: The New Art Gallery Walsall, committed to diversity and equality.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, training opportunities, and local discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working with opportunities for professional growth and engagement.
- Why this job: Shape how art is experienced and make a real impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in collections management and curating exhibitions required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking an ambitious and experienced Collections professional to lead the care, development and interpretation of our Collections, Archives and Art Library. Reporting to the Head of Exhibitions & Collections, you will play a central role in shaping how our collections are managed, displayed and shared with audiences.
Responsibilities
- Lead on the accessioning, conservation and long‑term care of the Gallery's collections and archives.
- Develop and manage loans, acquisitions and collections policies.
- Curate and deliver exhibitions and displays from the collection.
- Increase public access and engagement through innovative interpretation.
- Build partnerships with artists, donors, communities and sector peers.
- Line‑manage the Collections and Archives Assistant and support wider team development.
- Work from The New Art Gallery Walsall, with some flexibility to work at other locations.
- Include occasional evening and weekend working and public engagement activity.
- Represent the Gallery at events, previews and sector networks.
We want our staff to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve in Walsall, and at The New Art Gallery we are committed to promoting equality and anti‑discriminatory practice. We welcome applications from people of all cultures, races, ethnicities and religions, of different genders, ages, sexual orientations and abilities, and we recognise unique perspectives and contributions.
Qualifications
- Strong experience in collections management within a museum or gallery setting.
- Knowledge of historic, modern and contemporary art.
- Experience of curating exhibitions and developing engaging displays.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage complex projects.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with confidence to work across teams and with partners.
- Creative thinking and the ability to develop innovative approaches to interpretation and audience engagement.
- Experience of managing budgets and resources effectively.
- Fluency in spoken English (as required by the Government’s Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers).
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement (increasing after 5 years).
- Access to the LG Pension scheme.
- Wide range of training opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health support.
- Cycle scheme and car leasing scheme.
- 15% selected membership discount for Walsall Leisure centres and other local discounts.
- The opportunity to work with an important and diverse art collection.
- A leading role in shaping how collections are experienced by audiences.
- Professional development and opportunities to grow your career.
- The chance to contribute to an ambitious Arts Council England funded programme.
Collections Manager in Walsall employer: Walsall Council
At The New Art Gallery Walsall, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and creativity. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through extensive training opportunities and a commitment to employee well-being, including generous leave and health support. Join us in shaping the future of our diverse art collection while engaging with the community in a vibrant and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Collections Manager in Walsall
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the art and collections world! Attend events, previews, and sector networks to meet potential colleagues and partners. Remember, it’s all about who you know as much as what you know!
✨Show Off Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with someone about your experience, let your enthusiasm for collections management shine through! Share your ideas on innovative interpretation and audience engagement – it’ll make you stand out from the crowd.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Projects
Prepare to talk about your past projects and how you’ve managed complex exhibitions or displays. We want to hear about your creative thinking and how you’ve successfully engaged audiences in the past – so have those examples ready!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Collections Manager in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for collections management shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission and how you can contribute to the care and interpretation of our collections.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Collections Manager role. Highlight relevant experience in managing collections, curating exhibitions, and any innovative projects you've led. We love seeing how your unique skills can benefit us!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description. We appreciate a personal touch!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at The New Art Gallery Walsall.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walsall Council
✨Know Your Collections
Dive deep into the specifics of the collections you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with the history, significance, and current state of the Gallery's collections and archives. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Curatorial Skills
Prepare to discuss your past experiences in curating exhibitions and developing engaging displays. Bring examples of your work that highlight your creativity and ability to connect with audiences. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can enhance public access and engagement.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication
Since this role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked across teams or built partnerships in previous roles. Good communication can set you apart!
✨Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
Understand the importance of diversity within the arts sector. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to promoting equality and anti-discriminatory practices in your work. Showing that you value diverse perspectives will resonate well with the Gallery's mission.
