Curator / Programming Manager

Job Summary

Job Description

Hestercombe is a small but ambitious visitor attraction near Taunton, Somerset. Over the past 30 years, the 50 acre site has been largely restored, and offers close to 100,000 visitors per year a chance to learn, explore and relax in its four period gardens.

The Curator/Programming Manager will work with a small and busy team on the realisation of projects inspired by Hestercombe’s Collections, Archives and Landscapes. As a member of the Collection and Creative team, the Curator/Programming Manager will contribute ideas to creating an ambitious programme of temporary exhibitions and commissions, including the production of materials to accompany these events.

The postholder will be expected to liaise with other internal departments and with the wider museum, archive and creative/heritage sector. The Curator/Programming Manager will effectively work with creatives, lenders and institutions. The role will include the organisation of transport and insurance; registrarial duties; and the production of supporting materials.

We are passionate about bringing the voices of families, young people and communities into the heart of what we do now and in the future.

For a full list of responsibilities, please see the https://www.hestercombe.com/uploads/pdf/Job-Description-Curator-Programming-Manager.pdf – Curator/Programme Manager job description or visit our website to find out more.

Job Requirements

• Highly-organised self-starter with the ability to work flexibly, be highly motivated and organised
• Excellent organisation skills and impeccable attention to detail Must have relevant experience of curatorial practice/programming within a relevant setting
• Experience of museum/arts administration
• Experience with the care and handling of objects and art works, including condition reporting and packing procedures
• Proven computer skills with experience of Microsoft Office applications including Word, Powerpoint and Excel
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently, remaining calm under pressure, and to quickly find your feet in a fast-paced work environment
• An understanding and interest in the museum and creative sector.
• Able to design and develop resources and tools, presentations, display materials, questionnaires, topic guides and /or practical activities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Job Responsibilities

PRINCIPAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide support to the Creative and Collections Departments, from the research and development stage of a project through to its realisation.
• Liaise with all Hestercombe departments including Marketing & Communications, Estates, Operations and Finance to secure the smooth flow of information.
• Research and prepare loan documentation, administer loan requests and ensure loan conditions are fulfilled.
• Compile condition and packing reports to museum standard, keeping records of movement and conditions of works and liaise with conservators and couriers when necessary.
• Organise exhibition related transport, which includes updating shipping lists, obtaining estimates of costs, and monitoring customs documentation, liaising with shippers and Curators.
• Coordinate the insurance of objects and works of art.