Manager of Collections & Exhibitions

Grounds For Sculpture•Hamilton Township, NJ

9d•$65,000•Onsite

About The Position

Grounds For Sculpture (GFS) is at the beginning of a long path toward building a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive (EDI) institution. We are looking for individuals, at all levels of the institution, who are interested in joining us on this journey of intentionality and public accountability. This path broadens our workforce (board, staff, volunteers), expands our artist selection and acquisition practice as well as strengthens our internal and external communication systems, networks and norms. Role Overview The Manager of Collections & Exhibitions will provide strong leadership in management of the collection and in support of GFS' ongoing exhibition projects. Successful candidates will be creative problem solvers with broad knowledge of and experience in art handling, material knowledge and fabrication, and in best practices pertaining to collections and exhibitions management. Familiarity with contemporary sculpture is preferred. Must have a passion for and experience working with contemporary art and artists in a museum setting. The Manager of Collections & Exhibitions contributes to the development and implementation of institutional policies and procedures that support responsible, ethical, and inclusive collections management practices. The position supports cross-departmental collaboration and promotes a culture of accountability, transparency, and shared responsibility in the care and understanding of contemporary art. They must navigate shifting priorities with professionalism and a commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences. Reports to the Director of Collections & Exhibitions and works in collaboration with the Curator, Preparator, and Assistant Manager of Collections & Exhibitions. This is an onsite position working primarily M-F 9am-5pm. Some flexibility required for occasional availability outside these hours with advanced notice.

Requirements

Strong organizational and planning skills; able to manage multiple priorities and adapt to shifting deadlines with professionalism and attention to detail.
Proficient in collection management systems; experience with MuseumPlus or similar platforms preferred.
Knowledge of legal and ethical standards that govern management of collections, including museum registration methods, collections care standards, and stewardship best practices.
Capable of working independently and collaboratively; able to guide small teams or project-based efforts as needed.
Strong knowledge of contemporary art and fabrication methods, experience supporting artists in the production of new works is preferred.
Committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable work environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences.
Working knowledge of regional, national, and international art shipping procedures
Familiarity with contemporary art practices and experience collaborating directly with artists and lenders.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and respectfully.
Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion, cultural sensitivity, and sound judgment when engaging with artists, donors, and institutional partners.
Must have reliable transportation and will be required to travel semi-frequently to regional off-site installation locations, visit artist studios, or partner organizations.
Bachelor's Degree required plus 2-4 years related experience. Additional years (8) of experience can substitute edcuation.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with contemporary sculpture is preferred.
experience supporting artists in the production of new works is preferred.
experience with MuseumPlus or similar platforms preferred.

Responsibilities

Implement and manage the day to day schedule of seasonal activities drafted in collaboration with the Director of Collections & Exhibitions; Anticipate any roadblocks to success and promptly advise supervisor.
Work closely and respectfully with artists, curators, fabricators, or other contractors regarding the production of new work for the collection or exhibitions to ensure clear communication and that production is on time and on budget; document production of new work for department records.
Arrange for the incoming/outgoing shipment of artwork and supervise loading/unloading to ensure that work is completed safely. Monitor and support safe handling, storage, and display of objects, in alignment with conservation and risk management standards.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date collection records and oversee data integrity within the collections management system. Comply with the Collections Management Policy and advise on potential updates to the policy. Contributes to the development and implementation of policies and procedures that support ethical, inclusive, and transparent collections stewardship.
Assist supervisor with organization and documentation related to annual collection inventory.
Schedule and manage seasonal conservation activities, providing guidance and work schedules to department staff, volunteers, and outside contractors. Participate in the seasonal cleaning and care of the collection.
Advise on ethical or logistical issues pertaining to potential acquisitions and deaccessions. Process paperwork for new acquisitions and accession new works into the collection. Prepare documentation regarding deaccessioned work and process in accordance with the Collections Management Policy
Routinely inspect indoor exhibition areas and review daily notes from Guest Services. Advise Preparator on any gallery touchup, lighting issues, or additional cleaning required. Train Guest Services staff on security or opening/closing procedures for new exhibitions and be the point person for any ongoing communication to hear concerns.
Coordinate new outdoor installations or other related work with Director of Facility and Grounds and the Director of Horticulture, creating a plan to minimize risk/impact to the horticulture collection or underground utilities.
With assistance from Assistant Manager of Collections & Exhibitions, coordinate and draft incoming and outgoing condition reports for all works in the changing exhibitions, collection, and new outdoor installations.
Conduct vendor and material/supply research; includes contacting vendors for estimates, completing credit applications and purchase orders, scheduling deliveries of materials with follow up as needed.
Foster a respectful, communicative, and collaborative working environment that values diverse perspectives and professional growth. Support cross-departmental initiatives that advance access, accountability, and equity.
Stay current with industry standards and emerging practices in collections care and exhibition management.
Attend and, at times, lead regular meetings with Curatorial department team. Attend monthly full staff meetings.
Perform all other duties as assigned.