Careers
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) stands as a beacon of culture and community, nestled just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria in a serene park-like setting. Established in 1951 and housed in both contemporary exhibition spaces and the historic 1889 Spencer mansion, AGGV is not only the largest public art gallery on Vancouver Island but also one of the most significant in Canada, boasting an impressive collection of over 20,000 pieces of visual and decorative arts. As a growing non-profit organization, we are committed to excellence, innovation, diversity, and inclusivity, firmly believing in the power of collaboration to achieve our goals.
Why Join Us?
· Flexible and supportive work environment.
· Opportunity to be part of a team that makes a real impact in the community.
· This position is eligible for Extended Health, Dental, LTD benefits and Municipal Pension Plan
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous peoples, women, people of colour, LGBTQQIP2SA individuals, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. The AGGV is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. If you require any accommodation, please let us know.
Join us at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and be part of a team that values your contribution and believes in your potential to help us achieve our mission.
Director of Visitor Experience and Programs
Location: Victoria, BC
Hours: Full-time permanent position – 35 hours per week, on occasion additional hours are required
Salary Range: $95,000 – $110,000 per year (Exempt Position)
About the Role:
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) is looking for an innovative and dynamic leader to fill the role of Director of Visitor Experience and Programs. As a key member of the senior management team, you will work closely with the Director/CEO to shape and execute the Gallery’s vision and strategic goals. This role is essential in ensuring that visitor experiences and programming are aligned with the AGGV’s mission, delivering exceptional and engaging experiences to all who visit.
In this role, you will lead efforts to enhance the visitor experience across all touchpoints, from the front of house to our innovative public programs. You’ll collaborate with internal teams and external partners to create and implement strategies that connect art with a diverse audience, ensuring that every interaction with the Gallery is meaningful and memorable.
Your leadership will guide a dedicated team in developing programs that not only showcase the Gallery’s unique collections and exhibitions but also foster learning and engagement in ways that resonate with our communities.
Key Responsibilities:
· Visitor Experience & Programs: Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive visitor experience strategy that encompasses all aspects of the Gallery’s public interface, including front-of-house operations, the Gift Shop, Art Rental and Sales, and diverse public programs for adults, youth, families, and schools. Work closely with the Director of Development and Marketing to ensure that the online visitor experience matches the high standards of in-person interactions. Collaborate with curatorial staff to create programs that align with exhibitions and collections, and coordinate with the Facilities Manager to ensure that the Gallery spaces are inclusive, welcoming, and effectively utilized.
· Leadership: As a member of the senior leadership team, participate in setting the annual business plan and budget, ensuring that departmental goals align with the Gallery’s strategic direction. Represent the Gallery in the community and at public events, advocating for the role of visual arts in lifelong learning and community engagement. Support the Director/CEO in Board meetings and contribute to long-term strategic planning. Lead by example in fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, setting clear, results-oriented goals for the department, and ensuring that all initiatives meet their objectives.
· Human Resources: Oversee a large and diverse team, including staff, contractors, interns, and volunteers, ensuring that recruitment, training, delegation, and performance evaluations are conducted in line with the Gallery’s values and human resource procedures. Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the team, fostering a positive work environment that encourages continuous learning and professional growth. Provide coaching and mentoring to staff, ensuring that they are empowered to deliver high-quality visitor services and innovative programs.
· Administration: Work closely with the Director/CEO and other senior managers to ensure that all key initiatives, assignments, and requests for information are addressed in a timely and strategic manner. Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, regulations, and reporting standards. Participate in Board and committee meetings, providing insights and updates on departmental activities and contributing to the overall strategic direction of the Gallery. Manage the budget for the department, as well as special project budgets, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the Gallery’s objectives.
What We’re Looking For:
· MFA or MA in art history, art education, curatorial studies, museum studies, visual art, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of experience and education (minimum bachelor’s degree).
· 5+ years of progressive experience in program development and delivery in a museum or gallery setting.
· Knowledge of current art practices, issues, and scholarship.
· Proven experience in managing a large team in a visitor-centered environment.
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse audiences.
· Experience in department management, including budgeting and organizational skills.
· Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and public engagement strategies.
· Experience or training in diversity, inclusion, and equity initiatives preferred.
· Knowledge of MS Office and ticketing/POS systems.
· Ability to work after hours and on weekends as needed.
· Ability to travel for work as required.
· A Driver’s License is preferred.
· Physical demands may include standing for long periods during events.
Find the full job description HERE
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about making a difference and possess the required qualifications, we would love to hear from you!
Please apply by sending your resume and cover letter to careers@aggv.ca.
We will review applications and engage in conversations with qualified candidates as they apply.
The closing date for this posting is Friday September 20, 2024.
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria sits on the unceded and traditional territory of the Lək̓ʷəŋən -speaking peoples, today known as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. We are grateful to live, play and explore art on these lands.
