Head of Engagement & Interpretation

Summary: Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Museum's interpretative framework, approaches, and standards through a range of interpretive strategies including print, digital, hands-on, and guided experiences for the Museum's collections and exhibitions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leads the collaborative process with curators and other relevant stakeholders to establish, implement, and evaluate interpretive goals and plans for exhibitions and installations.
• Convenes the Museum's cross-functional Interpretive Materials Group (IMG) to envision and discuss innovative, inclusive interpretive strategies to engage visitors.
• Oversees the development, review, and refinement of all interpretive content, including the allocation of projects between the Head of Engagement & Interpretation, Associate Educator, Interpretation, and interns and fellows who seek interpretive experiences.
• Works closely with curators and colleagues in Graphic Design, Installation and Exhibition Design, User Experience, Exhibitions, Art Preparation and Installation, Registration, Conservation, Information Technology, DEAI, Marketing and Communications, and other areas on the development and implementation of print, digital, and hands-on interpretation approaches.
• Stays abreast of and models current best practices and trends in art museum interpretation, mentors Engagement and Interpretation staff in their development, and serves as an advocate for the interpretive wants and needs of museum audiences.
• Proactively works to identify topics of potential sensitivity for audiences and convenes internal and external stakeholder conversations to determine the best interpretive approach.
• Initiates and maintains interpretive collaborations with external partners.
• Guides Engagement & Interpretation staff in the recruitment, selection, training, assessment, and management of volunteers who facilitate live, in-gallery interpretation through guided tours and other in-person interpretive experiences.
• Works to cultivate and maintain productive relationships with the Museum's volunteer docents and guides.
• Participates on cross-departmental teams to address wayfinding improvements, campus and content accessibility, and assessment of visitor amenities such as gallery seating, maps, signage, and other resources.
• Oversees the Interpretation budget and supervises staff.
• Works with colleagues in Exhibitions, Design, Development, Marketing and Communications, Visitor Services, and other areas on the development of project and funding proposals and reports, and to develop communications associated with the promotion of Interpretation-related projects and initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications: Master's degree in art history, art education, museum studies, or related discipline with demonstrated command of global art historical content; at least 5 years relevant experience leading and facilitating interpretive content strategy and communication across multiple outlets; superior ability as a compelling writer and sensitive content editor who can work effectively with curators, educators, designers, artists, community partners, and others to develop engaging and inclusive interpretive content; understanding of current best practices in audience engagement, interpretation, and gallery teaching; excellent communication, presentation, facilitation, project and time management skills; ability to effectively convene multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously; staff supervision and budget experience; experience recruiting and managing volunteers. Or, an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experiences.

Additional Details:

Status: Regular, Full-Time. Benefits eligible on first day of employment.

Hiring Range: $72,448-90,560 annually

Application Deadline: May 22, 2024

The Saint Louis Art Museum is committed to building a diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from candidates of color.

The Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience, without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.