Operations Manager

Natural History Museum; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cultural institution in London is seeking an experienced professional to lead procurement for exhibitions and manage major projects. The ideal candidate will possess strong contract management skills and financial acumen while excelling in communication and project management. This role offers a hybrid working model, competitive benefits, and a commitment to inclusivity. Join us in transforming how millions experience science and nature.

Benefits

27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays

Defined contribution pension scheme

Season ticket and bicycle loans

Life insurance

Free exhibition admissions

Staff discounts

Qualifications

• Experience in contract and exhibition management.
• Strong financial acumen for budget management.
• Proven ability in communication and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead procurement for exhibition supplies and transport.
• Manage significant projects including decommissioning activities.
• Represent the Museum to suppliers and clients.

Skills

Contract and exhibition management

Financial acumen

Outstanding communication skills

Project management

Meticulous organisation

Job description

Overview

At the Natural History Museum, we are transforming how millions experience science, nature and our shared planet. As a global centre of scientific excellence, our Global Touring department delivers exhibitions to partners worldwide and reached 2 million visitors in the past year.

Responsibilities

• Lead procurement for exhibition suppliers and transport, ensuring venue requirements are met.
• Manage a broad range of significant projects, including major decommissioning activity.
• Represent the Museum to domestic and international suppliers and clients, delivering process improvements.
• Support the Senior Operations Manager in developing operational procedures.

Qualifications

• Contract and exhibition management experience with contract negotiation and relationship building.
• Financial acumen – effective budget management and insurance requirement oversight.
• Outstanding communication and project management skills, including leading major exhibition decommissioning.
• Meticulous organisation, sharp detail and composure under pressure.

What we offer

• 27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent).
• Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution 4‑10%).
• Season ticket, bicycle and rental loan.
• Life insurance.
• Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across London and the UK.
• Staff discount at our Museum shops and cafes.

Diversity and inclusion matter to us

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Hybrid working model

The role requires regular weekly on‑site attendance, with a hybrid working pattern agreed with your manager.