Head of Interpretation and Collections

About the role

Black Country Living Museum is seeking a Head of Interpretation and Collections to lead the Interpretation and Collections teams. You will drive inclusive, creative, audience‑focused interpretation while overseeing the care and accessibility of the museum's collections.

Key responsibilities

• Lead cross‑departmental teams to deliver inclusive, participatory interpretation interventions supporting collections access.
• Develop sustainable solutions for collections care and costume development.
• Shape a strategic collecting policy to guide acquisitions, disposals, site developments and public programmes.
• Create a new interpretation strategy centred on audiences, inclusivity and access.
• Produce high‑quality, historically accurate research and content for living interpretation, publications, exhibitions, learning programmes, online content and events.

Required profile

• Proven experience delivering interpretation and collections care in a physical museum environment.
• Extensive background developing interpretative content for diverse audiences using creative, inclusive storytelling.
• Collaborative work ethic with strong influencing and negotiation abilities.
• Experience managing external relationships and partnership working.
• People‑management experience.
• Creative and pragmatic thinker.

Required skills

What we offer

• Unique working environment in a 29‑acre open‑air museum.
• Opportunities to learn new skills.
• Competitive rewards and benefits.
• Supportive and inclusive work culture.
• Positive approach to work‑life balance.