Job Summary
The Cold War and late twentieth-century conflict team is one of four curatorial teams whose key role is to develop and interpret IWM’s collections that fall within the time period 1949-2000 and provide content for our public programme and outputs. The team looks at the causes and consequences of war as well as its course and conduct, and facilitates and supports access to our collection, for our audiences and colleagues across IWM and the wider heritage sector.
As a curator in the team, you will be involved in the further development of collections material relating to the Cold War, actions related to decolonisation, counterinsurgency, peacekeeping missions, and conflicts that took place in the second half of the twentieth century. You will contribute to the effective stewardship of IWM’s 1949-2000 collection in line with best practice guidelines and be able to identify priorities for review, acquisition and disposal.
You will develop an in-depth understanding of IWM’s collection and will promote its potential for display and interpretation at all IWM branches, and in all areas of the IWM public offer, in order to further understanding of the conflict and the time period, in line with IWM’s strategic objectives. You will apply and develop knowledge and skills for the benefit of our audiences and put forward imaginative ideas for, and contribute to the delivery of, exhibitions, events, publications, digital content (including podcasts, online articles and YouTube videos) and other elements of the public programme. You will contribute to a working culture that is responsive, collaborative and committed, and an environment that welcomes curiosity and creativity.
You will need to work proactively, collaboratively and imaginatively to develop the collection as outlined in IWM’s Collections Development Plan. This will involve actively engaging stakeholders, communities, people with lived experiences and academic experts, representing and collecting stories relating to the Cold War and late twentieth-century conflict. You will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the relevant practical, legal and ethical considerations pertaining to the care, development and interpretation of IWM’s collections relating to the Cold War and late-twentieth century period. Your practical archival and curatorial skills will be accompanied by an appreciation and knowledge of the material culture of this time period, and you will show a willingness to grow and develop this knowledge base further.
You will line manage and mentor assistant curators, apprentices and volunteers, as required, and undertake mandatory training.
Key duties
You will be expected to work independently as well as across different teams in order to contribute to and deliver the priorities of IWM - using your knowledge, skills, talent and potential to the best of your ability.
You will focus at all times on delivering excellent customer service, ensure value for money at all times while being professional, courteous and demonstrating the behaviours and attributes expected of all IWM employees. You will also adhere to all corporate standards, and use corporate systems as directed to ensure consistency of service, brand and operational standards.
You will be expected to work across departments effectively, working with individuals, partners and where appropriate volunteers.
You will identify and implement learning and development needs for both yourself and your team, including volunteers, if appropriate.
For a full list of key duties please see the attached job description.
Please note this role may include working with content of a highly graphic nature which you may find distressing. IWM is working with staff to further develop formal and informal training and support for those encountering sensitive and challenging material.
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