Property Curator

Job Description

Summary We are looking for a thoughtful and creative individual to set the curatorial direction for Kedlestons future.Kedleston Hall is one of Europes most complete 18th-Century estates. Its landscape and buildings were designed by world-famous architect Robert Adam and house some of the most significant collections in the National Trusts care including internationallyimportant paintings, sculptures, textiles, furniture, architectural drawings, books and archival collections. What its like to work here Exciting times lie ahead as we look at new ways of curating our collections to ensure our interpretation and programming is dynamic and relevant to the diverse communities on our doorstep.Kedleston Hall is a Neo-classical show palace surrounded by 8,000 acres of spectacular parkland. Welcoming over 220,000 visitors per year we aim to create wonder through celebrating art and design, from exploring the art and culture of our unique collectionof objects from across the Asian continent to unpacking the influence of 18th-Century design on our world today.Click here for more information about this location What youll be doing Kedleston is starting an important journey to improve standards of curation and programming including a major project to re-interpret a museum collection housing over 1,000 objects from across South-East Asia.Reporting directly to the General Manager, with professional support from internal specialists, youll develop a curatorial vision and long-term plan for the hall, garden and park. Youll lead the team responsible for developing and improving collectionscare and management. Youll work to enhance the relevance of our hall and collections, demonstrating public benefit through high-quality and innovative presentation, research, interpretation and programming.You will lead for a full and honest exploration of Kedlestons history and collections working with academics, partners, local diaspora communities and source communities to ensure historic accuracy and representation work hand in hand.Championing the historic significance and understandingof the whole property youll improve our knowledge of the collection through managing a programme of research.Working with other property leadership team members, youll grow support for the property and its conservation work, including hosting specialist visits and fundraising events. Who were looking for We value lived experience as well as formal knowledge and skills, and welcome applicants able to demonstrate the following:

• In-depth understanding and experience of working with historic collections and properties 
• Good experience of collections management and care, and understanding of taking an informed and holistic approach to conservation management
• Experience of team leadership, with a strong understanding of how to work collaboratively
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences
• Capability to undertake, lead on, interpret, and respond to external and internal research, intelligence, and analysis
• Enthusiasm, knowledge and inspiration as well as a practical, pragmatic and sensible approach to problem solving
• Relevant formal academic / professional / vocational qualifications in Art History, Museum Studies and related fields

The package The National Trust has the motto For everyone, for ever at its heart. Were working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. Its important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audienceswe serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say were for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Free parking at most locations

• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

Click here to find out moreabout the benefits we offer to support you.