Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and visionary Art Department Manager to oversee the strategic development, acquisition, preservation, and management of a prestigious art collection. This leadership role requires a deep understanding of art curation, client relations, and the international art market. As the Art Department Manager, you will be responsible for guiding a team, managing art acquisitions, and ensuring the collection’s alignment with the client’s vision and global standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Vision & Policy Development:

• Develop and execute a strategic plan for the growth and management of the art collection.
• Formulate policies for acquisitions, conservation, loans, and security in line with international standards.
• Make informed decisions regarding acquisitions and investments, keeping up with art market trends.
• Negotiate contracts for acquisitions and strategic partnerships while maintaining governance frameworks.

Client & Stakeholder Relations:

• Provide expert advice on collection development and enhancement.
• Build relationships with global galleries, museums, auction houses, and collectors.
• Represent the client at art fairs, exhibitions, and other industry events.
• Manage communication regarding acquisitions, conservation efforts, and exhibition opportunities.

Acquisitions:

• Advise Clients on artwork purchases, including bidding strategies and terms.
• Recommend acquisitions based on client preferences and market analysis.
• Oversee all transaction details and ensure adherence to acquisition policies.

Governance & Risk Management:

• Ensure transparency in financial and asset management processes.
• Conduct risk assessments for insurance, acquisitions, and transportation.
• Approve conservation initiatives and ensure best practices in preservation.

Inventory, Databases, and Cataloging:

• Manage procedures for tracking and documenting art inventory.
• Maintain customized art databases, catalogs, and backups.
• Generate reports for clients, insurance, and legal purposes.

Storage, Archives, and Organization:

• Optimize art storage and collaborate with warehouse teams to plan for future needs.
• Oversee storage maintenance to protect artworks from environmental damage.
• Facilitate access to the collection for clients and authorized parties.

Logistics and Art Handling:

• Oversee transportation logistics for both domestic and international shipments.
• Ensure compliance with transport and storage requirements.

Conservation:

• Engage conservators for maintaining and restoring artworks.
• Prioritize and advise clients on conservation projects and associated costs.

Research and Provenance:

• Research the provenance and market value of artworks.
• Document findings for client and legal purposes.

Art Installation and Relocation:

• Manage the relocation and installation of artworks to enhance their impact.
• Work with designers, curators, and event planners on installations.
• Oversee safe handling and transportation during relocation.

Loans and Disposition Management:

• Evaluate loan opportunities and negotiate terms for artwork safety.
• Coordinate valuations, dispositions (auction/private sale), and manage logistics.
• Develop strategies for disposition that align with client preferences.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead and mentor a team of art professionals.
• Foster collaboration and professional development among team members.
• Ensure compliance with policies and organizational goals.

Innovation & Digital Integration:

• Lead digitization efforts and enhance cataloging through technology.
• Collaborate with IT to implement advanced software for collection management.

Budget & Administration:

• Develop and manage an annual budget for acquisitions and operational costs.
• Oversee the documentation process with the Legal Department.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Direct Manager.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in art collection management, acquisitions, and conservation.
• Proven leadership with experience managing high-performing teams.
• Established network in the global art community.
• Expertise in provenance research, market analysis, and legal compliance.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and client relations skills.
• Proficiency in collection management software and digital tools.
• Ability to manage budgets and ensure financial accountability.

Working Conditions:

• Occasional domestic and international travel for art events and client meetings.
• Evening and weekend work may be required for auctions, installations, and events.
• Ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.