Director

at  Museum of Cambridge

JOB DESCRIPTION

Outlined below are the primary areas of responsibility; however, the Director’s overarching duty is to lead the Museum to achieving its organisational objectives.
Over the next five-to-ten years, this will be focused on leading the major upcoming phase of the Museum’s redevelopment.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR AN INSPIRING DIRECTOR TO TAKE ON A CAREER-DEFINING ROLE AT THE MUSEUM OF CAMBRIDGE.

Job Title: Director
Hours per week: 37.5 (1 FTE).
The Board welcomes applications from those who wish to work part time (minimum 22 hours) or from two individuals proposing a job-share.
This role will involve some out-of-hours work including evenings and weekends. Responsible to Board of Trustees
Responsible for: A team of between four and eight paid staff and a team of around 60 volunteers, plus additional contractors and freelancers.
Contract: Permanent.
The probation period will last for nine months from the first day of employment.
Salary: £42,000-£45,000 dependent on experience, with an additional 3% employer contribution to pension.

INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE OF DIRECTOR AT THE MUSEUM OF CAMBRIDGE

The Museum of Cambridge offers a unique opportunity for an inspirational leader to shape the future of one of the city’s most valued cultural institutions. Located in the heart of Cambridge, we are an independent museum committed to exploring and celebrating the rich stories and histories of Cambridgeshire.
This prestigious role comes at a pivotal moment for the Museum, as we embark on a transformative phase of redevelopment. Following the launch of our ambitious five-year strategy in 2022, we are setting our sights on a much needed redevelopment of the Museum; one option for this may include a relocation.
This redevelopment will not only reimagine our physical space but also enable us to repurpose our collections and expand our role as a dynamic hub for social history. This transformative project will be delivered in collaboration with key partners, including Cambridge City Council, and a broad network of charitable and corporate organisations.
As Director, you will hold overall responsibility for the strategic and financial leadership of the Museum, guiding it through this exciting chapter. Central to your role will be leading the redevelopment project while serving as the Museum’s public face—building relationships, managing partnerships, and championing our work to secure vital support and funding.
You will also lead and inspire a team of talented staff and dedicated volunteers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Beyond operational leadership, you will guide the Museum’s mission to become a world-class cultural destination, enriching the lives of residents, visitors, and scholars alike.
Our ideal candidate is someone who shares our core values: inclusivity, creativity, courage, and responsibility. You will bring a proven track record of strategic leadership, project management including change management, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for heritage, arts, and community engagement.
This is a rare and significant opportunity to play a transformative role in shaping the future of a museum that is at the heart of Cambridge’s cultural life, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

9. ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

9.1. To be a key holder and act as Duty Manager, contributing to the safe and successful opening of the Museum.
9.2. Any other duties that can be reasonably required and are compatible with the nature of this job description.