Job Description

Collection Manager: Loans and Display
Full-time 41 hours per week (1 hour paid lunch)
Permanent contract
5 days on-site with potential future hybrid working
London-based with occasional travel to our Reading and Wiltshire sites
33,469
Application deadline: 12pm 19th January 2026
About the role:
The British Museum is hiring a Collection Manager to work in their Collection Care department. This role will lead a team of Assistant Collection Managers within the Collection Directorate, ensuring the effective delivery of museum projects and the daily care of the collection. A key focus will be on preparing objects for display and loans, including mount making, handling, installation and packing.
Key areas of responsibility:

• Manage and develop a team of Assistant Collection Managers, providing guidance, support, and proactive performance management.
• Collaborate with Senior Collection Managers to plan and deliver museum activities, focusing on resource allocation and leading specific projects.
• Work closely with other Collection Managers to ensure cohesive planning and operations across loans and display teams.
• Contribute to developing and implementing best practice standards for object handling, care, documentation, and loans.
• Coordinate training initiatives, manage workshop spaces and equipment, and provide expert advice on technical standards for cross-museum projects.

About you:
We are looking for someone with a strong background in object handling and installation within a museum or similar environment. Skilled in managing and motivating teams, you combine excellent organisational abilities with a proactive approach to planning and delivering complex projects. Your attention to detail and commitment to best practice ensure the highest standards of care for collections.
Benefits:

• Be a part of a world-renowned institution, where history, culture and innovation come together!
• Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) plus 2.5 privilege days and bank holidays.
• Exceptional Pension: Secure your future with one of the UK's most generous defined benefit schemes - guaranteed income for life.
• Cultural Perks: Free tickets to exhibitions, plus complimentary and discounted entry to leading museums and galleries worldwide.
• Financial Support: Interest-free travel loans and rental deposit loans.
• Wellbeing: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and wellbeing support.
• Everyday Extras: Paid 1-hour lunch break, subsidised staff canteen, and discounts in our gift shop.

Our values:
Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered. These are:

• Care Deeply
• Embrace the Unknown
• Spark Curiosity
• Value Many Voices

Additional details:
If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of to support you with your application, please provide details
*Unfortunately, for this role we are unable to offer Sponsorship to applicants*
The Museum also adheres to the HMG Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) for pre-employment screening of Civil Servants.
Museum Website:

Skills Required