Director of Exhibitions

Job Title

Director of Exhibitions

Department: Collections and Exhibitions

Section: Contents

Unit: Exhibitions

Reporting to: Senior Director of Collections and Exhibitions

Job Purpose

The Director of Exhibitions is responsible for the conception, planning, and delivery of a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions that brings global content and contemporary relevance to the Institution. This includes developing long-term strategies for exhibition programming, inspiring curators, and guest curators to propose original ideas, and ensuring projects are delivered to the highest international standards of scholarship, design, and visitor engagement. The role involves collaboration with a wide range of international institutions and partners to bring outstanding exhibitions to Riyadh. A deep understanding of audience needs, narrative techniques, and exhibition design is essential, along with the ability to activate synergies with other institutions.

Roles and Responsibilities

Strategy and Planning

• Develop and implement strategic plans for exhibitions that align with the institution’s mission.
• Integrate cultural trends and visitor insights into exhibition planning.

Budget Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor the Exhibition’s budget in collaboration with the Finance Department.
• Advocate for funding and secure additional resources to support Exhibition initiatives, preparing grant applications and reports as needed in collaboration with Advancement.
• Policies, Processes, and Procedures
• Ensure compliance with the institutions’ standards and ethical guidelines for exhibition development and artifact handling.
• Maintain procedural documentation for exhibition processes.

Functional Accountabilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design of innovative exhibitions that highlight the institution's collection and themes of cultural significance.
• Manage all phases of exhibition development, including budgeting, scheduling, procurement, and installation, ensuring adherence to established timelines and budgets.
• Collaborate with artists, historians, and educational experts to curate exhibitions that enhance audience engagement and educational opportunities.
• Promote diversity and inclusivity in all exhibition aspects to attract a wider audience and foster community relationships.
• Ensure the conduction of research to inform the narrative and educational components of exhibitions, integrating contemporary issues and historical context.
• Oversee the preparatory work required for exhibition openings, including installation logistics and associated programming.
• Collaborate with the Communication and Marketing Department to develop and implement marketing strategies to effectively promote exhibitions, working closely with the marketing and communications teams.
• Analyze evaluations of the exhibitions program through visitor surveys and feedback mechanisms, using data to improve future planning and performance.
• Ensure the facilitation of training sessions for the institution’s staff and volunteers on exhibit-related themes and community engagement techniques.

Stakeholder Management

• Coordinate with internal teams, artists, scholars, and community partners to curate exhibitions.
• Act as liaison between the institution and external contributors.

People Management

• Live by the institution’s values, ethical standards, and governance.
• Manage and support team members in performing their tasks in line with established policies and procedures.
• Guide, mentor, and develop the Exhibitions team to ensure continuous growth and achievement of functional objectives.
• Set clear performance goals, provide regular feedback, and support professional development through coaching and formal evaluations.
• Delegate authority appropriately to empower team members and encourage accountability.
• Contribute to workforce planning, recruitment, and performance management while promoting employee engagement and motivation.
• Foster a high-performance, inclusive, and collaborative work culture aligned with the institution’s values.
• Promote innovation and contribute to a positive, inspiring, and diverse workplace.
• Maintain high personal standards and ensure excellence across the section.

Job Qualifications and Requirements

Knowledge and Experience

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in exhibition curation and management.
• Strong background in curatorial practice and community engagement.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in art history, Museum Studies, or related field (master’s degree strongly preferred).
• Relevant certifications in curatorial or museum operations are advantageous.

Personal capabilities and qualifications

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with proficiency in articulating complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, capable of leading cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving skills, with an ability to adapt to changing circumstances in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in digital tools and software related to exhibition design and project management.
• Deep understanding of museum practices, ethics, and standards, particularly in relation to artifacts and public engagement.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, managing relationships with stakeholders while driving initiatives forward.
• Strong attention to detail, ensuring high quality in all aspects of exhibition development and operation.
• Ability to analyze complex data and trends to inform decision-making and strategic planning initiatives.