Salisbury Museum is a thriving independent museum and charity based in The King’s House, a grade I listed building in Salisbury Cathedral Close. We were founded in 1860 and have been an important part of the fabric of the local community ever since. The main strength of the museum lies in our archaeology collections, which are designated of national significance by the Arts Council.
The new chair will join the museum at an exciting time. Over recent years we have been implementing a masterplan to transform The King’s House. Central to this has been the need to update our displays, improve our facilities and put the museum on a firm financial footing. The first stage of this was the opening of the Wessex Gallery of archaeology in 2014. The second stage, known as the “Past Forward project” was completed this month, and on the 13th of July 2024 the museum was re-opened with new galleries dedicated to local history, ceramics and natural history. Past Forward was predominantly supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and its completion paves the way for future projects to begin.
Alongside the masterplan the museum has developed an ambitious temporary exhibition programme. This was kicked off in 2011 with the Constable and Salisbury exhibition and was followed by other blockbusters such as Turner’s Wessex and Terry Pratchett: HisWorld. These exhibitions have enabled the museum to punch above its weight drawing in new audiences and publicity on a national scale.
We are looking for a new chair who will build on the successes of both the masterplan and our programming. With the opening of the new galleries it is a good time for us to reflect on the current position of the museum. The new chair will lead the trustees in taking an active role in reviewing the museum’s business plan and help to fundraise for both capital redevelopment and exhibitions. The new chair will need to bring inspirational leadership qualities, an extensive network of contacts, advocacy skills and be the ‘face’ of the museum alongside the Director. An understanding of the local context in which the museum works will be essential.
If you think you have the skills and experience to lead our Board contact Charisma. Charisma Charity Recruitment | Job – Chair of Trustees – The Salisbury Museum (charismarecruitment.co.uk)
