Chief Curator: Visionary Leader for Collection & Exhibitions

SupportFinity™; Waterville (ME); On-site; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Colby College Museum of Art in Waterville, Maine seeks a Chief Curator to lead curatorial strategy, develop the collection, and guide a small, high-performing team. The role combines creative vision with practical leadership to advance exhibitions, research, and public programs across a richly diverse collection.

The Chief Curator will partner with the Museum Director, oversee a multiyear exhibition program, and collaborate with internal teams and external partners.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field; knowledge of American art history is essential.
• At least seven years of experience in the arts, culture, and/or education; five years in progressive leadership in curatorial practice.
• Strong scholarship, relationships with artists, exhibition making, and collections.

Responsibilities

• Advise the director, model institutional values and mission alignment, lead special projects, and communicate Colby College’s and the Colby Museum’s priorities to staff and stakeholders.
• Define and implement a curatorial vision grounded in the Museum’s context and contemporary life, ensuring relevance and engagement.
• Manage and mentor staff with clarity and purpose, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Build and maintain relationships with artists, collectors, dealers, and donors to support exhibitions and acquisitions.
• Develop and refine processes for curatorial work and collaborate on budgets and contracts.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Mentoring staff

Budget management

Public speaking

Education

Master’s degree

Job description

The Colby College Museum of Art in Waterville, Maine seeks a Chief Curator to lead curatorial strategy, develop the collection, and guide a small, high-performing team. The role combines creative vision with practical leadership to advance exhibitions, research, and public programs across a richly diverse collection.

The Chief Curator will partner with the Museum Director, oversee a multiyear exhibition program, and collaborate with internal teams and external partners.