Collection Manager: Loans and Display

Collection Manager: Loans and Display
Full-time 41 hours per week (1 hour paid lunch)

Permanent contract

5 days on-site with potential future hybrid working

London-based with occasional travel to our Reading and Wiltshire sites
£33,469
Application deadline: 12pm 19th January 2026



About the role:

The British Museum is hiring a Collection Manager to work in their Collection Care department. This role will lead a team of Assistant Collection Managers within the Collection Directorate, ensuring the effective delivery of museum projects and the daily care of the collection. A key focus will be on preparing objects for display and loans, including mount making, handling, installation and packing.

Key areas of responsibility:

* Manage and develop a team of Assistant Collection Managers, providing guidance, support, and proactive performance management.
* Collaborate with Senior Collection Managers to plan and deliver museum activities, focusing on resource allocation and leading specific projects.
* Work closely with other Collection Managers to ensure cohesive planning and operations across loans and display teams.
* Contribute to developing and implementing best practice standards for object handling, care, documentation, and loans.
* Coordinate training initiatives, manage workshop spaces and equipment, and provide expert advice on technical standards for cross-museum projects.

About you:

We are looking for someone with a strong background in object handling and installation within a museum or similar environment. Skilled in managing and motivating teams, you combine excellent organisational abilities with a proactive approach to planning and delivering complex projects. Your attention to detail and commitment to best practice ensure the highest standards of care for collections.

Benefits:

* Be a part of a world-renowned institution, where history, culture and innovation come together!
* Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) plus 2.5 privilege days and bank holidays.
* Exceptional Pension: Secure your future with one of the UK's most generous defined benefit schemes - guaranteed income for life.
* Cultural Perks: Free tickets to exhibitions, plus complimentary and discounted entry to leading museums and galleries worldwide.
* Financial Support: Interest-free travel loans and rental deposit loans.
* Wellbeing: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and wellbeing support.
* Everyday Extras: Paid 1-hour lunch break, subsidised staff canteen, and discounts in our gift shop.

Our values:

Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered. These are:

* Care Deeply
* Embrace the Unknown
* Spark Curiosity
* Value Many Voices



Additional details:

If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of to support you with your application, please provide details

*Unfortunately, for this role we are unable to offer Sponsorship to applicants*

The Museum also adheres to the HMG Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) for pre-employment screening of Civil Servants.

Museum Website: https://www.aplitrak.com/?adid=cm9yeS5idXJucy43NTg2My4xMTE5M0Bicml0aXNobXVzZXVtLmFwbGl0cmFrLmNvbQ