Unit Head of Programmes

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi); Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Programmes Unit Head to enhance public engagement through innovative and inclusive programming. This role involves developing and executing high-quality initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences, from families to researchers. The ideal candidate will lead multidisciplinary teams to create interactive experiences, ensuring alignment with museum standards and fostering community involvement. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of public engagement in a vibrant cultural setting.

Qualifications

• 7+ years experience in public programming and cultural event management.
• Strong background in developing interactive museum experiences.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive public programming strategy.
• Ensure all public programmes are high-quality and engaging.

Skills

Leadership

Public Engagement

Storytelling

Visitor Experience Design

Budgeting

Programme Evaluation

Strategic Planning

Education

Bachelor’s in Museum Studies

Master’s Degree (preferred)

Job description

The Programmes Unit Head is responsible for the development, execution, and oversight of NHMAD’s public engagement programmes, ensuring diverse, dynamic, and inclusive activities that enhance the museum’s impact. This role ensures that NHMAD offers high-quality, audience-driven programming, including educational initiatives, interactive experiences, community programmes and special events that bring the museum’s collections and research to life. Reporting to Learning section head, the Programmes Unit Head collaborates with internal teams and external partners to develop compelling, accessible, and innovative programmes for various visitor demographics, fostering lifelong learning and deepening audience engagement.

Key Responsibilities :

Programme Strategy & Development

• Develop and implement a comprehensive public programming strategy, ensuring alignment with NHMAD’s mission and vision.
• Design and oversee diverse programmes, workshops, talks, and community engagement initiatives to maximise visitor interaction.
• Lead the development of interactive and experience-driven activities within and beyond NHMAD’s galleries.
• Ensure that all programmes are inclusive, accessible, and tailored to different audience segments (families, schools, adults, researchers, etc.).

Educational & Public Engagement Initiatives

• Work closely with the Education, Visitor Engagement, and Research teams to integrate scientific and cultural content into programming.
• Oversee specialist-led sessions, pop-up talks, meet-the-scientist events, and immersive experiences that enhance visitor learning.
• Develop and expand community-led science and initiatives that actively involve the public in NHMAD’s research efforts.

Programme Delivery & Quality Assurance

• Ensure all public programmes are high-quality, engaging, and aligned with international museum standards.
• Implement feedback mechanisms and evaluation strategies to measure programme effectiveness and visitor impact.
• Lead innovation in museum programming by leveraging new technologies, storytelling techniques, and interactive formats.
• Establish and maintain relationships with cultural institutions, educational organisations, and industry leaders to enhance programming opportunities.
• Work with internal NHMAD teams to develop collaborative programming that integrates exhibitions, research, and collections.
• Oversee partnerships with external educators, scientists, and guest speakers to enrich the museum’s programme offerings.

Operational & Resource Management

• Oversee budgeting, staffing, and logistical planning for all NHMAD public programmes.
• Ensure that programming aligns with museum objectives, visitor needs, and resource availability.
• Lead a team of specialists responsible for youth programmes, lifelong learning initiatives, and visitor engagement activities.

Experience & Qualifications :

Education :

• Bachelor’s in Museum Studies, Education, Public Engagement, or a related field. Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience :

• 7+ years of experience in public programming, museum engagement, or cultural event management.
• Strong background in developing interactive museum experiences, public events, and educational initiatives.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing large-scale programming efforts.

Skills :

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent public engagement, storytelling, and visitor experience design skills.
• Ability to integrate scientific, educational, and cultural content into engaging public programmes.
• Proficiency in budgeting, programme evaluation, and strategic planning.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Other

Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos and Museums