Public Engagement Section Head // Major Science Institution

Job description

Role Purpose:

The Public Engagement Section Head is responsible for leading the development and implementation of engaging programs, exhibitions, and digital experiences at the Museum.

This role oversees the creation of innovative, visitor-focused initiatives that connect diverse audiences with the museums collections, exhibitions, and educational offerings.

The Public Engagement Section Head works closely with the Director of Visitor Experience and other museum departments to ensure alignment with Museum's mission and strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Exhibition Development & Oversight:

• Lead the planning and delivery of permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions, ensuring content is engaging, inclusive, and aligned with the museums mission.
• Collaborate with curators, designers, and educators to create exhibitions that effectively communicate scientific narratives and inspire visitors.
• Ensure exhibitions incorporate innovative storytelling, interactive technologies, and accessibility features to cater to diverse audiences.

Programs & Publications:

• Oversee the development and delivery of educational programs and publications, including workshops, lectures, and printed materials, to enhance visitor engagement and learning.
• Collaborate with the Education Team to ensure programs align with audience needs and reflect the museums scientific and cultural priorities.
• Manage the production of high-quality publications, including exhibition guides, research outputs, and educational materials.

Digital Experiences:

• Lead the integration of digital technologies into public engagement initiatives, including AR/VR, interactive displays, and online learning platforms.
• Oversee the development of digital content that enhances visitor engagement both on-site and online.
• Ensure digital initiatives are aligned with global best practices in museum engagement and are accessible to all audiences.

Visitor Engagement & Inclusion:

• Develop and implement strategies to engage diverse audiences, ensuring programs and exhibitions are inclusive and culturally relevant.
• Collaborate with the Accessibility and Inclusion Unit to ensure all initiatives meet accessibility standards and reflect the Museum's commitment to diversity.
• Gather and analyze visitor feedback to inform future engagement initiatives and improve audience satisfaction.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead and mentor the Public Engagement team, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation.
• Provide professional development opportunities to team members, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality engagement initiatives.
• Coordinate with other museum sections to ensure alignment and effective collaboration on cross-departmental projects.

Budget & Resource Management:

• Develop and manage budgets for public engagement initiatives, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Identify funding opportunities and collaborate with relevant teams to secure support for public engagement projects.

Evaluation & Continuous Improvement:

• Implement evaluation processes to measure the impact and effectiveness of public engagement initiatives.
• Use data and feedback to refine programs, exhibitions, and digital experiences, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation.

Experience & Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelors degree in Museum Studies, Education, Cultural Studies, or a related field.
• A Masters degree is preferred.

Experience:

• 7+ years of leadership experience in public engagement, exhibition development, or educational programming, preferably within a museum or cultural institution.
• Proven experience managing multidisciplinary teams and delivering large-scale engagement projects.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in digital technologies and platforms used in public engagement and exhibitions.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of Arabic or additional languages is an advantage.

Required Skill Profession

Other General