Public Programmes Operations Lead

Who you are

• We are looking for an experienced cultural sector professional with a strong track record of delivering ambitious creative programmes within the museum, cultural, or heritage sector. Y
• . You will bring expertise in programme planning, budgeting, risk management, and team leadership, alongside a sound understanding of the operational and technical requirements of exhibitions, events, and public engagement. An excellent communicator and relationship builder, you will be confident influencing and presenting at all levels, while managing complex priorities with resilience and professionalism
• You will be committed to access, diversity, and inclusive practice, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams, inspire others, and adopt a practical, hands-on approach to delivering exceptional audience experience
• Experience managing ambitious creative programmes in a museum, culture, or heritage setting
• Programme management expertise with experience in planning, scheduling, risk and budget management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with expertise in presenting, advocating and facilitating across various levels of governance
• Experience of leading a team, using strong management skills

What the job involves

• You will be leading the Public Programme Operations team within the Curatorial and Public Programmes department, reporting to the Head of Exhibitions, Design & Planning
• The Public Programme Operations team is a group of technical and operational experts and support staff who help to deliver Wellcome Collection’s renowned programme of exhibitions and events
• The team helps to ensure administrative and planning processes across the programme are effective, and also ensures the practical and technical aspects of our work are of the highest standard
• In this role you will manage the operational and technical aspects of Wellcome Collection’s exhibitions and engagement programme, developing effective systems, processes, and team capabilities to support the planning, delivery, and ongoing success of exhibitions, displays, events, and public engagement activities
• You will line manage four roles – the Technical Manager, Production Assistant, Engagement Planning Manager and a Public Programmes Officer. You will work closely with the Exhibition Project Management and Design Lead and Head Curator as well as collaborating with colleagues across the organisation
• Lead the development of effective systems, tools, and processes to support successful delivery of the public programme
• Oversee programme planning processes, budgeting, monitoring and reporting, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives, financial controls, and risk management requirements
• Provide leadership for technical and operational teams, ensuring the safe, accessible, and high-quality installation of exhibition and programme content
• Drive cross-team collaboration across programming, content, digital, communications, marketing, and finance teams to support integrated planning and delivery
• Maintain robust governance, compliance, and health and safety standards, developing and implementing policies and procedures that support best practice
• Champion audience-focused planning, evaluation, and continuous improvement across the deparment

The application process

• Closing date: 15th September
• Interview dates: 1st stage w/c 21st September -remote/online
• To apply for this role, please submit an up-to-date CV and answer two application questions to demonstrate that you meet the minimum requirements for the role

Benefits

• Holiday – 25 days’ holiday a year plus bank holidays (and we usually close between Christmas and New Year)
• Pension (defined contribution plan) – you contribute at least 3% and we pay in 15% of your salary
• Income protection – to maintain your income if you have a prolonged illness or disability
• Life assurance – four to six times your basic salary if you’re a member of our pension plan
• Interest-free travel season ticket loan
• Private medical insurance – we pay the cover, you pay the tax (and you can pay to add dependants)
• Gym and fitness classes – free membership to on-site gym and subsidised fitness classes and treatments
• Employee assistance programme – free, independent 24/7 help and advice for work-related issues as well as problems affecting your home life
• Mental health support – our network of mental health first aiders can be a first point of contact, or help while you're receiving professional help
• Health assessments (free and voluntary) – after you’ve been here for one year, then every two years after that
• Occupational health – annual eye tests and flu jabs, as well as job-related vaccinations
• Flexible working – we make every effort to support flexible working, including flexible working hours and remote working (we respect people's different working preferences and the need for a healthy work-life balance)
• Flexi-leave scheme – you can buy or sell up to five days of your holiday entitlement a year
• Staff social club – a range of sports teams and fun events throughout the year
• Volunteering – we give you up to four days' paid leave a year to contribute to our local community
• Give As You Earn – allows you to make tax-free donations to the charities you care about
• Cycle-to-work scheme – we offer at least 25% discount on bikes and cycling equipment and we have secure cycle storage, lockers and showers
• Subsidised restaurant and cafe
• Wellcome Collection discounts – 20% off food, drink and gifts from our cafe, restaurant and shop
• Discounts through Perkbox – shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, phone insurance and gift cards