Summary

At a time when people value nature and heritage more than ever, we're looking for a Collections and House Manager to join us at Castle Ward, to bring the history and significance of our collections and places into even greater focus. Are you excited by the challenge of balancing excellent conservation and presentation standards with an inspiring visitor experience? We're looking for someone who is passionate about delivering all of this.

Accommodation is provided to the postholder for the proper or better performance of his or her duties in accordance with Trust criteria and HMRC rules

What it's like to work here

You’ll be based at Castle Ward, and as part of a forward thinking and dynamic leadership team, you'll help to shape and deliver the strategic vision within this Portfolio. Committed to excellent conservation care and the meaningful provision of access to our historic assets, you'll lead the House Team to achieve best practice in conservation and access. The house and collection have undergone a period of revisioning and revitalisation. You'll lead the house team to continue this work, inspiring and advocating for positive change.

This is an operational role and will be part of the key rep cover on a rotational basis which comes with beautiful live in accommodation - a stunning apartment on the top floor of the mansion with breath-taking views over Strangford Lough (for the proper or better performance of your duties in accordance with Trust criteria and HMRC rules).

What you'll be doing

You'll have a holistic approach to understanding the collections, based on a sound knowledge in collections management and conservation. As part of the property leadership team, you’ll support the General Manager to develop and bring to life the vision for Castle Ward. You’ll work collaboratively to ensure the property and its important collections are able to connect with new audiences in an innovative way. You’ll lead on great presentation and engaging interpretation for a range of audiences.

For more information about the property please visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward

Who we're looking for

We'd love to hear from you if you have:

• An understanding of collections care and conservation and experience of managing historic collections and properties, including an awareness of Museum Accreditation standards.

• As an inspirational leader, you’ll know how to get the best out of your team, motivating them and developing them, as well as managing volunteers.

• The ability to work collaboratively with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

• Strong skills in advocacy and building partnerships with regional colleagues and partners; You can lead for innovative, inclusive, and accessible histories and interpretation.

• You understand the needs of a wide range of different audiences, to deliver creative, accessible, and layered content to reveal the meanings of collections and places to meet these needs.

• Experienced in the management of relevant compliance, health and safety and emergency procedures.

• Good business planning, organisational skills, proven knowledge of visitor experience.

• Experience in the management and setting of budgets and excellent verbal and communication skills.