Executive Level 2

**Role purpose**

As the Head of Exhibitions, you will drive the strategic vision and operational execution of the Museum’s exhibition programs in both domestic and international spheres. Your leadership will position our exhibitions as dynamic platforms for cultural exchange, education, audience engagement and revenue generation.

In this pivotal role, you will expand the Museum’s influence by leading the creation and management of exhibitions. You will create an environment in which collaboration and innovation are supported and encouraged. Your strategic expertise and business acumen will be crucial in developing a comprehensive exhibition and gallery masterplan that aligns with the Museum’s broader initiatives.

You will oversee a dedicated team focusing on three core areas: forging partnerships, developing touring exhibitions and managing on-site activations at Acton, including both permanent and temporary galleries. By leveraging innovative curation, strategic alliances, and effective management, you will maintain the Museum’s position at the forefront of the cultural sector.

This role demands exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, coupled with proactive initiative, sound judgment and the ability to set and anticipate agendas. Continuous assessment and enhancement of exhibition strategies will be key to enriching visitor experiences and maintaining the Museum’s competitive edge.

**Key accountabilities**
- Lead and manage the Exhibitions team to deliver high-quality outputs to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
- Develop and implement business models and strategies to maximise return on investment for exhibition activities, including securing external funding opportunities.
- Develop, implement, and review financial management and budget strategies and plans as they relate to exhibition development and installation, ensuring compliance with the Museum’s financial performance models and identifying opportunities for cost efficiencies in the delivery of exhibition programs and permanent galleries.
- Lead the development and implementation of an exhibition masterplan that establishes a cohesive and compelling exhibitions program across our temporary and permanent exhibition activities and that draws on and amplifies the Museum’s core narrative.
- Oversee the management of the domestic touring, international touring, and Acton exhibition programs.
- Identify, negotiate, and secure partnerships that enhance the Museum’s reputation, revenue and visitation, both domestically and internationally.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders across various business units to leverage opportunities and resources for exhibition development and promotion.
- Represent the Museum in cultural forums, conferences, and negotiations, advocating for the Museum’s interests and enhancing its global profile.

**Skills, experience, and qualifications**

Essential:

- Proven leadership and management skills, with experience successfully managing, mentoring, and coaching a diverse team of professional staff.
- Significant experience in planning and managing the delivery of exhibitions and other public programs, events or activities in a museum or associated context.
- Highly developed financial management and business acumen, including procurement and supplier management.
- Sound working knowledge of exhibition design, audience engagement and methods of exhibition programming in museums.
- Proven experience in building, developing, delivering, and sustaining complex projects, preferably within a cultural environment.
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience in cultural diplomacy activities and international relations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, liaison, and negotiation skills, with the ability to represent the Museum effectively in diverse contexts.
- Ability to think laterally and solve problems creatively, demonstrating highly developed project leadership.
- Knowledge of First Nations cultures and traditions, with sensitivity to the cultural protocols and practices of First Nations peoples.
- Demonstrated performance in delivering reputational and financial results in previous roles.

Desirable:

- An established network and relationships within the cultural sector nationally and internationally.
- Demonstrated digital literacy and experience in leveraging digital platforms to enhance exhibition experiences and expand audience reach.

**Eligibility**
- be an Australian citizen
- undergo pre-employment checks, including a police record check
- hold or be eligible to hold a security clearance at the level specified in the position description.

The Museum is committed to ensuring a child-safe and child-friendly environment. All employees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to, and support for, these principles, in theory and practice.

**To apply**

**Applicants must include a response to the essential and desirable Skills, experience and qualifications defined