Director

Employer: The American Museum and Gardens

Location: Bath (onsite at Claverton Manor estate)

Salary: £100,000–£112,000, dependent on experience

Closing date: Monday, 20th October

Job Ref: GSe122344

Description

The American Museum & Gardens is entering a bold new chapter - one defined by growth, transformation, and transatlantic engagement. As the only museum of Americana outside the United States, the Museum offers a unique platform for cultural exchange, storytelling, and public engagement. We are seeking a visionary Director to lead this next phase, shaping a future-ready institution that deepens its relevance, expands its reach, and enhances its impact across UK and US audiences.

Set in 120 acres of historic parkland just outside the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, American Museum & Gardens combines the tranquillity of the countryside with the cultural vibrancy of the city. It is a destination for families, learners, and explorers - offering immersive exhibitions, beautiful gardens, and a rich programme of events.

The Role

This is a rare opportunity for a bold, strategic leader to guide a Museum of huge opportunity and significance. You’ll work closely with the Board of Trustees and lead a talented team to:

Shape and deliver ambitious strategic and business plans that support cultural relevance and financial sustainability

Drive commercial innovation through growing income through ticketing, retail, events, and partnerships

Lead fundraising and capital development initiatives, including strengthening transatlantic ties

Champion the Museum’s mission and values by deepening engagement and expanding reach across diverse audiences

Act as a visible ambassador - building influential relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders locally, nationally, and internationally

Inspire and empower staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth

About You

We’re looking for a strategic thinker and compelling advocate with:

Demonstrable experience in organisational leadership, ideally within a museum, cultural institution, or visitor attraction

Strong financial and commercial acumen, with an entrepreneurial mindset

A track record in fundraising and stakeholder engagement across UK and US contexts

Excellent communication skills and the ability to lead change with credibility and sensitivity

Passion for American history and culture, and a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Willingness to travel regularly within the UK and to the US

You can find out lots more information about this opportunity by navigating the details in the microsite using the tabs at the top of the page.

To view the full job description and person specification, please scroll to the bottom of the page, tick to agree to the privacy policy, then click 'Continue to full details'.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.

Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.

Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.

Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.