Associate Director of Collections

About the role

The Director, Conservation plays a pivotal role in the DIA's mission to preserve and enhance the collection. Reporting to the Vice President, Exhibition and Collection Strategies, this individual manages the department, ensuring that all activities align with the museum's strategic goals.

Responsibilities

• Manage the department, determine priorities and goals, and ensure resources support the museum's strategic vision.
• Mentor and develop a team to achieve departmental and divisional functions, including special exhibitions and permanent collection galleries.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure the safe handling and display of artworks, and to monitor environmental conditions.
• Oversee preventive conservation efforts, including HVAC system and air conditioning monitoring, and collaborate on risk assessment and emergency planning.
• Provide technical guidance and support for the care of artworks, and lead public outreach and advocacy activities.
• Support conservation staff in technical research, documentation, and imaging for acquisitions, treatment, and scholarly inquiries.
• Lead fundraising activities, including donor cultivation, endowment-building, and grant-seeking.
• Ensure chemical safety in the department and foster inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in art conservation from a recognized program with ten (10) years of progressive conservation experience.
• Experience with extensive treatment, scientific analysis, research, and process management in conservation.
• Five (5) years of management experience as a section head or equivalent, including supervisory responsibilities.
• Strategic thinking and ability to plan and execute goals.
• Leadership skills and experience leading a team to meet strategic goals.
• Budget management and fiscal responsibility.
• Understanding and sensitivity to handle, store, and display museum-quality artworks.
• Knowledge of analytical techniques, digital photography, and other imaging techniques.
• Experience with collections database software, The Museum System (TMS), and proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple projects.
• Knowledge of museum environments and environmental monitoring systems.
• Ability to make creative and timely decisions aligned with organizational mission and values.
• Engaged listening and ability to build consensus.
• Demonstrated understanding of ethical business conduct and professional practices.
• Ability to recognize and limit liabilities and risks.
• Proficiency in remote work technology and ability to establish professional interactions.