Property Curator

We're looking for a thoughtful and creative leader to set the curatorial direction for the future of one of the National Trust’s most significant Mansion Properties.

It’s hard not to fall in love with Oxburgh Estate, when you catch your first glimpse of the imposing brick manor house reflected in the tranquil moat. Despite its fortified appearance, Oxburgh Estate was built as a family home. It was completed in 1482 for Sir Edmund Bedingfeld and their ancestors have lived here ever since, surviving Civil War, periods of near dereliction and, in the 20th century, the threat of demolition.

What it's like to work here:This romantic 15th century manor house has the ‘wow’ factor. With its castle-like exterior and panoramic views, Oxburgh Estate's team love working in this beautiful environment.

You’ll line manage the Collections & House Manager and will be part of the Property Leadership Team helping to deliver our ambitions for the future of Oxburgh Estate.

Exciting times lie ahead as we look at new ways of curating our collections, to ensure our interpretation and programming is dynamic and relevant to a diverse audience.

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What you'll be doing:Reporting directly to the General Manager, with professional support from internal specialists, you’ll develop a curatorial vision and long-term plan for the hall, garden and parkland. You’ll lead the team responsible for developing and improving collections care and management. You’ll work to enhance the relevance of our hall and collections, demonstrating public benefit through high-quality and innovative presentation, research, interpretation and programming.

You'll strive for a full and honest exploration of Oxburgh's history and collections working with academics, partners, local communities and source communities to ensure historic accuracy and representation work hand in hand.

Championing the historic significance and understanding of the whole property you’ll improve our knowledge of the collection through managing a programme of research.

Working with other property leadership team members, you’ll grow support for the property and its conservation work, including hosting specialist visits and fundraising events.

Who we're looking forWe value lived experience as well as formal knowledge and skills, and welcome applicants able to demonstrate the following:

- In-depth understanding and experience of working with historic collections and properties
- Good experience of collections management and care, and knowledge of how to take an informed and broad approach to conservation management
- Experience of team leadership, with a strong understanding of how to work collaboratively
- Ability to connect with a wide range of audiences
- Capability to undertake, lead on, interpret, and respond to external and internal research, intelligence, and analysis
- Passion, knowledge and inspiration as well as a practical, pragmatic and sensible approach to problem solving
- Relevant formal academic / professional / vocational qualifications in Art History, Museum Studies and related fields

The packageThe National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Tax free childcare scheme
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most locations
- Independent financial advice

Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK
Permanent f/t (37.5 hrs pw)