Head of External Relations

Manchester Museum is looking for a values-driven Head of External Relations.

This new senior role calls for someone brimming with the energy, creativity and imagination to provide leadership in the key areas of development, data, policy and communications. Driven by an unparalleled commitment to building understanding between cultures and a more sustainable world, we’re aiming to become the most inclusive, imaginative and caring museum you’ll ever visit. Our talented team has done a fantastic job in shaping the first phase of the Museum’s transformation and the Head of External Relations will play a key role as we take our next steps. We’re looking for someone who’s empathic, in tune with the needs of diverse audiences and equipped to lead change.

Our Head of External Relations will help us to achieve this by:

• Shaping the narrative: by creating our strategy for stakeholder engagement and supporting priority areas of policy development
• Showing our value: by providing strategic oversight and leadership in relation to our supporters; including our two major external funders (Arts Council and Research England)
• Forging powerful connections: building relationships with key stakeholders, policymakers, funders, and other relevant organisations to champion our work and impact.
• Unlocking new funding streams: leading and guiding the development team to secure resources to fulfil our ambitious goals.
• Maximising the potential of The Top Floor: alongside the Head of Civic Engagement and Education, you will lead and support the development and evaluation of The Top Floor; our Environmental Action and Social Justice hub, driving further external relationships and impact.
• Living our values: as a member of the museum leadership team, you will deputise for the Director and play a role in the shared management of the Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) Manchester Museums Partnership (Manchester Museum, the Whitworth, and Manchester City Galleries). You will embed environmental sustainability, care, and inclusion in your every decision and interaction.

As you enter the museum you will see the words “Where Everyone Belongs” and that commitment starts with our recruitment. The following job description is detailed; however, this supports both the seniority of the role and our bold ambition; but don’t let that phase you. If your values align to ours and you feel able to confidently take on this exciting role, then please keep reading!

We embrace diversity and unique voices so please come as you are, bring your passion and join us!

Interviews are planed to take place on 25 April 2024.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Judith Fabian

Email: Judith.fabian@manchester.ac.uk

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Further particulars including job description and person specification are available on the University of Manchester website - click on the 'Apply' button above to find out more.

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