Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial Gallery Director to assist in setting up and running a multifaceted art gallery in the heart of the City of London. The Gallery Director will be responsible for strategic planning, artistic direction, and operational management. This role requires a unique blend of business acumen, curatorial expertise, and a passion for art.
This role offers significant autonomy, allowing the candidate to express themselves as a partner and actively contribute. The successful candidate will be expected to make key decisions, with the potential to gain more autonomy as they drive profit and success. The gallery is slated for a New Year launch, with promotional activities beginning beforehand.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic and Directional (Collaborative with Owner)
- Decide on the design and layout of the gallery space.
- Determine the use of each floor including the roof terrace.
- Develop the gallery’s name, profile, and logo.
- Formulate a business model including audience and customer base, how premise is to be used, types of art, price points, rental and commission structure.
Artistic
- Develop and maintain a consistent, adventurous, and honest artistic vision.
- Build and nurture relationships within the art world.
- Identify and promote artists for exhibitions.
- Curate exhibitions representing specific artists and community groups.
- Organize and curate shows for diverse art forms including fine art, crafts, silver, ceramics, glass, and sculpture.
Operational
- Lead marketing, social media, and digital marketing efforts.
- Manage communications and public relations.
- Build and maintain customer relations for both rental and self-curated shows.
- Develop relationships with corporate clients for private viewings and events.
- Oversee bookings and scheduling.
- Set up and manage exhibitions and events.
- Drive sales and revenue generation.
Qualifications and Experience
- Proven experience managing an art gallery or a similar cultural space.
- Strong understanding of business models, financial planning, and revenue generation in the art world.
- Experience in curating exhibitions and building relationships with artists.
- Demonstrated success in marketing and PR, particularly within the arts sector.
- Extensive network within the art community, including artists, collectors, and other galleries.
- Ability to lead a team, delegate tasks, and manage multiple projects.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Problem-solving skills and adaptability to changing circumstances.
Requirements
- Passionate about art and its various forms.
- Strategic thinker with a creative and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Strong design and aesthetic sense.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Excellent interpersonal and networking skills.
Job Title: Gallery Director
Location: City of London, EC4
Reports To: Owner
Contract: open to either a project-based or permanent full-time contract
Salary: from £50k base – Potential for equity and/or profit-sharing