University of East Anglia
Museum Transition Manager
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Museum Transition Manager
Museum Transition Manager
The Sainsbury Centre Ref: SC5003 Starting salary: £31,236–£37,694 per annum (dependent on skills and experience)
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Museum Transition Manager to join The Sainsbury Centre’s team as we approach our 50th anniversary.
As part of our milestone celebrations, we are embarking on a major capital project to refurbish, future-proof, and enhance our Grade II listed building. This multi-phase transformation includes:
- Architectural and infrastructure upgrades
- Visitor experience enhancements
- Consolidation of the museum’s innovative legacy for the next 50 years
During the construction phase, the Sainsbury Centre will deliver an alternative programme of activity to ensure the continuation of our unique approach, showcasing our collection, expanding audience engagement, and raising our profile.
This role is critical in supporting the parallel delivery of both projects. You will:
- Ensure operational continuity and customer experience across temporary closure.
- Oversee pre-closure planning, mobilisation, and logistics, including running the Museum Without Walls programme.
- Represent the Sainsbury Centre in external stakeholder engagements and advocate for institutional needs.
You will work with a diverse team across internal departments such as curatorial, collections, learning, conservation, technical, front of house, and media, as well as external partners, to deliver seamless outcomes.
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Key Responsibilities
Project and Logistics Coordination
- Manage complex, multi-disciplinary activities arising from the refurbishment and alternative programming.
- Coordinate time-sensitive and cost-efficient transitions from existing operations to reopening.
- Ensure the smooth execution of ‘Museum Without Walls’, including collection transport and loan logistics.
Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
- Act as a spokesperson for the Sainsbury Centre in key forums, representing the institutional vision.
- Liaise effectively with internal teams (Directorate, curators, contractors) and external partners.
- Advocate for the needs of the museum in cross-departmental planning.
Operational Leadership
- Maintain business continuity and facilitate smooth transitions (closure → temporary exhibitions → reopening).
- Apply strategic, hands-on problem-solving during high-pressure periods.
- Support the role-out of new systems and modified workflows post-refurbishment.
Requirements
Experience and Skillset
- Industry-specific experience: Proven track record in museum, heritage, or cultural project delivery.
- Project coordination: Ability to manage interdependent phases of a major project while balancing strategic and operational demands.
- Multi-team collaboration: Experience working with curatorial, marketing, and technical teams across phasing.
- Stakeholder relations: Expertise in managing external communications and internal advocacy.
- Adaptability: Thrives in dynamic environments, making decisions under uncertainty with a clear focus on outcomes.
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Soft Skills
- Highly organisation-led approach with strong leadership in complex transitions.
- Excellent communication skills (internal and external-facing).
- Proven ability to anticipate challenges and drive solutions in fast-moving scenarios.
Additional Details
- Post type: Full-time, fixed-term contract (17 August 2026 – 31 July 2028)
- Closing date: 3 July 2026
Benefits
The Sainsbury Centre offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 39 days annual leave (inclusive of Bank Holidays and University Customary days).
- Sound salary progression from £31,236 to £37,694 with annual increments.
- At the University of East Anglia (UEA), we hold an Athena Swan Silver Award, reflecting our commitment to advancing gender equality.
For more information on our benefits and culture, visit [The Sainsbury Centre’s website](insert website).
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