The Wallace Collection

Director of Collections and Research

Job Reference EBJOA
Closing Date Monday 24 Jul 2023

The Wallace Collection is an internationally outstanding collection containing unsurpassed masterpieces of paintings, sculpture, furniture, arms and armour, and porcelain. Built over the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, it is one of the finest and most celebrated collections in the world. Donated to the British Nation in 1897 and opened to the public in June 1900, the museum is internationally famous for its collection of French eighteenth-century art, Arms and Armour, and for its Old Master paintings.

The Wallace Collection is preparing to embark upon a capital transformation project, and against this backdrop, now seeks candidates for the role of Director of Collections and Research. Reporting to the Director, this person will be responsible for managing the Curatorial, Conservation/ Collection Care and Exhibitions teams as well as the Library and Archive. Leading by example, the role will foster excellence amongst their team and support collegiate relationships between departments across the institution. The Director of Collections and Research will also assist and advise in every stage of the capital transformation project – from conception to implementation – ensuring that the Collection’s strategic aims are reflected in the plans through world-class display. The role will contribute to the Collection’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, and help ensure positive and proactive outcomes from the group’s recommendations.

The ideal candidate will have an excellent knowledge of and extensive experience in the museum sector, particularly on an administrative and operational side, as well as in contributing to strategy. They will have an international reputation in their field and have experience in leadership of key Collections functions. They will also bring a collegiate, flexible and pragmatic leadership style and a commitment to driving change and ensuring continued improvement, as the post holder will be required to shape this role proactively as the position and departments develop.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to The Wallace Collection on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference EBJOA. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Monday 24th July 2023.

Built over the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, it is one of the finest and most celebrated collections in the world.