Kaiārahi Whakaaturanga Toi Exhibitions Manager (Toi) - Rapid Progression

Wheako Pōneke Experience Wellington is seeking interest for the role of Kaiārahi Whakaaturanga Toi | Exhibitions Manager (Toi).

Ko wai mātou | Who are we

As a multidisciplinary organisation we punch above our weight, working together with and for Wellington to create remarkable experiences that generate vitality, strengthening the city we love.  We offer incredible audience experiences across our six sites; City Gallery Wellington, Capital E, Wellington Museum, Space Place, Cable Car Museum and Nairn Street Cottage. 

Te tūranga | The role

City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi is currently looking for an experienced Exhibitions Manager to support the gallery team through dedicated logistical planning and exhibitions and operations management. This role plays an integral part of the team, contributing to the delivery of a programme that supports international and Aotearoa New Zealand artists through the presentation of innovative and bold contemporary art exhibitions of national significance.

Ideally, you will have a minimum of 3 years demonstrable experience of working in an art gallery or museum context. This will include a working knowledge of a contemporary art gallery and managing complex multi-media installations. You will have previous relevant experience in an Art Gallery, project and budget management experience, and be an excellent team player.

You will bring strong interpersonal and communication skills, be experienced and comfortable leading teams and working with artists and external practitioners to deliver engaging, thought provoking and cutting-edge contemporary art experiences. City Gallery is part of a unique coterie of arts and cultural institutions that form Wheako Pōneke Experience Wellington, where you will enjoy unrivalled mahi tahi and have access to a diverse arts and cultural network. City Gallery has a reputation for challenging and innovative exhibitions, presenting New Zealand artists alongside major international figures.

City Gallery is going through some challenging times due to building works and is committed to bringing exceptional exhibitions to Wellington in different venues before returning ‘home’ in 2026. This presents an unrivalled time for innovation, collaboration and invites a person who can see the dynamic opportunities that changing times present.

In the role, you’ll ensure exhibition-critical paths are developed and met as well as activities relating to registration, freight, collection, despatch and touring of artworks, technical support activities, leading project installation and deinstallation, engagement and management of technical contractors and working with artists and their collaborators.

Join the team at City Gallery Wellington and make a key contribution to an organisation that has placed Wellington and New Zealand firmly on the international cultural map. We welcome applications from experienced candidates with a relevant tertiary qualification and working knowledge of international gallery practice.

 
Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako | The essential skills and experience for the role

• 3 years minimum practical experience in a similar role successfully leading complex projects and exhibitions with multiple stakeholders in the GLAM sector, including high value international exhibitions.
• Thorough understanding of contemporary and international gallery and museum practice for safe handling, presentation and display of art and cultural objects as well as a sound knowledge of exhibition design and construction, audio-visual technologies, installation, and other aspects of care and display.
• Experience working with artists, subject specialists and technicians on development and delivery of specific displays.
• Energy, creativity, and resourcefulness with a commitment to achieving our strategic outcomes and gain and to keep the confidence of stakeholders.
• Effective written and oral communication skills including public speaking and desirably, with some capability in Te reo Māori.
• Demonstrated task and project management skills with familiarity of project planning software.
• Experience managing exhibition insurance, logistics and tours with knowledge of New Zealand Government legislation, policy and developments in the arts and cultural sector, such as Indemnity for Touring Exhibitions scheme.
• Working knowledge of management functions (financial, staff management, planning, budgeting and reporting).
• Excellent written and oral communications skill, ideally with some Te Reo, and the ability to inspire confidence in stakeholder including collectors, exhibit lenders, artists, and museum colleagues.
• You’re committed to te ao Maori and use of te reo.
• Working knowledge of international gallery and museum standards and practices relating to the physical care of works of art and other cultural / heritage items.
• You’re passionate about art, science, history, museums, or community building – sometimes all of these and more.


Experience Wellington embraces flexible working and offers generous leave provisions in, wellbeing and bereavement leave. Other benefits include free te reo Māori lessons and access to EAP services.
 
If you want to work with like-minded community builders, passionate about art and culture we would love to hear from you.  To join our team, please submit your CV, a cover letter and complete our online application form for our consideration.  For further information on the role please contact [email protected]. 
 
Applications close Friday, 24 May 2024. Applications will be shortlisted as they come in.

Applicants for these positions require the eligibility to work in New Zealand, have current NZ citizenship, residency or a valid work visa. For advice on obtaining a New Zealand work or residence visa visit www.immigration.govt.nz