Manager/Senior Manager, Curatorial Programmes

Singapore Art Museum; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading art institution in Singapore is seeking a Manager/Senior Manager for Curatorial Programmes. The role involves developing and executing engaging curatorial programmes, managing projects, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Ideal candidates have 5-9 years of experience, a degree in art or related fields, and excellent communication skills. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead projects that connect contemporary art with diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 to 9 years of relevant work experience in public-facing programmes.
• Up-to-date knowledge of global contemporary art.
• Proficiency in additional languages is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development for curatorial programmes.
• Manage project lifecycle and stakeholder communication.
• Analyze programme effectiveness and mentor junior staff.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Excellent communication

Cultural sensitivity

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in art or curatorial studies

Job description

Singapore Art Museum opened in 1996 as the first art museum in Singapore. Also known as SAM, we present contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective for artists, art lovers and the art curious in multiple venues across the island, including a new venue in the historic port area of Tanjong Pagar.

SAM is building one of the world's most important public collections of Southeast Asian contemporary art, with the aim of connecting the art and the artists to the public and future generations through exhibitions and programmes. SAM is working towards a humane and sustainable future by committing to responsible practices within its processes.

For more information, visit www.singaporeartmuseum.sg.

Designation : Manager/Senior Manager, Curatorial Programmes

Responsibilities

Curatorial Programme & Resource Development

• Conceptualise and lead the research, development and implementation of engaging and creative curatorial programmes and resources for diverse adult audiences, with a specific focus on the arts and culturally engaged segment.
• Forge and maintain strong relationships with contemporary artists, artist communities, cultural institutions, academia, and creative partners to enhance programming.
• Stay current on emerging trends in artistic practices and community sentiment to inform programme direction and relevance.
• Collaborate seamlessly with internal teams to align programmes with ongoing exhibitions and permanent collections.

Programme Execution and Project Management

• Own the end-to-end project management lifecycle, including meticulous budget allocation, scheduling, resource management, and risk mitigation.
• Ensure flawless programme delivery by adhering to strict deadlines and budgets while fostering transparent communication among all stakeholders.
• Provide essential logistical and administrative leadership, managing programme implementation and coordinating with internal departments (Estates & Security, AVL, Events Management, Visitor Experience) and curators for smooth execution.
• Partner strategically with the Marketing & Communications team to develop compelling public-facing content for programme promotion, publicity materials, and social media campaigns.
• Proactively manage and delegate key operational aspects of programmes, including ticketing, registration, attendance tracking, feedback collection, and database maintenance.

Analysis and Team Management

• Conduct data-driven analysis of programme effectiveness, using audience feedback and surveys to generate insights and continuously improve participant experiences.
• Maintain and archive comprehensive programme documentation for record-keeping, adapting materials for various internal and external platforms.
• Curate and maintain a robust database of programme contributors, speakers, and facilitators.
• Mentor and guide interns and junior staff, fostering their professional development within the team.
• Organise and undertake various ad-hoc assignments and tasks, offering support and assistance to other team members as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Knowledge

• Possess a bachelor's degree in art, curatorial studies, or an adjacent field.
• Demonstrate strong, up-to-date knowledge of the global contemporary art landscape, including key figures, significant developments, and current discourse.
• Hold a robust interest in the arts, demonstrated by an established professional network within the local, regional, and/or global arts and culture community.

Experience & Programme Delivery

• Minimum of 5 to 9 years of relevant work experience with a proven track record in developing content for and/or curating public-facing programmes.
• Demonstrated expertise in the successful planning and execution of engaging, conceptually rigorous art and culture programmes (e.g., talks, lectures, panel discussions, artist workshops, performances).
• Proven ability to be highly organised, resourceful, and capable of managing multiple complex projects concurrently, consistently demonstrating initiative and ownership.

Key Competencies

• Possess excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills. Must be able to communicate effectively and with nuance when engaging diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrate the maturity and composure required to remain highly productive and effective while managing competing priorities and tight deadlines.
• Exhibit strong cultural sensitivity and empathy when working with diverse communities and partners.
• Highly proficient in spoken and written English. Proficiency in a second language is a distinct advantage.
• Must be available to work on some evenings and weekends as required for programme delivery and events.