Museum Operations Expert // Heritage & Culture Museum

About the Museum

The Museum is a landmark cultural institution in Saudi Arabia dedicated to preserving and showcasing the Kingdom's history, heritage, and authentic identity. Through innovative storytelling, engaging visitor journeys, and immersive experiences, the landmark aims to strengthen cultural understanding, safeguard heritage, and contribute to the region's evolving cultural landscape. Currently in its development and pre-opening phase, this presents a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping the operational foundations of a destination that will have lasting cultural impact.

Job Description

The Museum Operations Expert for our heritage museum is a unique role that combines modern business logistics with the stewardship of history. Unlike a standard gallery, our operations focus heavily on historic preservation site-specific security, and managing the delicate balance between high-volume public access and the protection of irreplaceable cultural assets. You will ensure the museum's building, landscapes, and daily functions are managed to the highest professional standards.

Reports To: Strategy Management Office

Role Main Mission: A seamless, safe, and memorable heritage experience

The Museum Operations Balance Framework

To create a cohesive environment, the role acts as the "center of gravity" between two often-competing forces: 

1. Front of House (The Visitor Journey): Focuses on hospitality, engagement, storytelling, and comfort. 

2. Back of House (The Heritage Stewardship): Focuses on preservation, security, infrastructure, and safety.

Key Responsibilities 

1. Strategic Leadership & Planning 

• Develop museum's operations strategy and readiness assessment plan.
• Develop visitors' experience strategy for the museum. 
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to improve institutional efficiency. 
• Oversee the annual operational budget, including long-term capital improvement projects. 
• Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to the museum's strategic roadmap. 

2. Heritage Facility & Site Stewardship 

• Oversee the maintenance of historic structures and grounds, ensuring all repairs align with preservation standards and local heritage codes. 
• Manage specialized HVAC and climate-control systems essential for the stabilization of archival materials and organic artifacts. 
• Coordinate with conservation specialists to ensure that facilities work does not compromise the integrity of the historic site.

3. Risk Management & Collection Security 

• Develop security protocols tailored to historic layouts (e.g., non-standard exits, multi-building campuses). 
• Serve as the primary liaison for insurance providers regarding Fine Arts & Heritage coverage and risk assessment. 
• Maintain the museum's Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Recovery plans, with a focus on "salvage priorities" for the permanent collection. 

4. Public Engagement & Event Operations 

• Oversee the "Front of House" team to provide an immersive, educational, and welcoming experience. 
• Manage the operational logistics for educational tours, historical reenactments, and community festivals. 
• Coordinate the use of the site for private rentals (weddings, corporate events) while ensuring strict protection of the heritage environment. 

5. Sustainability & Growth 

• Identify and implement "green" operational practices that are compatible with historic architecture. 
• Manage vendor contracts for specialized services, such as heritage-appropriate landscaping or traditional masonry. 
• Oversee the museum's retail/gift shop operations, ensuring merchandise reflects the museum's historical mission.