Job

Director of Curatorial Affairs

Deadline
Sep 9, 2026
Location
New Haven, CT, USA
Application fee
Free
Reward / Stipend
$170K–$200K salary + Yale benefits
Who is this for
Senior museum professionals, PhD preferred

Summary

Overview

The Yale Center for British Art (YCBA) seeks a Director of Curatorial Affairs, a senior executive leadership role responsible for shaping curatorial vision, exhibition strategy, and collections development. Reporting to the Paul Mellon Director, this full-time on-site position oversees curatorial, conservation, interpretation, and publications departments, driving the museum’s long-range exhibition calendar, scholarly output, and public engagement within a world-class university museum.

What selected participants may receive

  • Senior executive leadership position at an internationally recognized museum
  • Annual salary of $170,000–$200,000
  • Full Yale University employee benefits package (healthcare, pension, wellness programs)
  • Leadership over a major curatorial division with approximately 20 staff members
  • Professional influence across global museum and academic networks

Eligibility

  • Advanced academic qualification (PhD preferred) in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field
  • Minimum 8+ years of senior experience in museum or cultural institutions
  • Proven leadership in curatorial practice, collections, or exhibition development
  • Strong record of scholarly publications and exhibitions
  • Experience managing large institutional teams and budgets
  • Ability to build international cultural partnerships
  • Strong communication and interpersonal leadership skills
  • Experience in fundraising and donor relations (preferred)
  • The position is open to highly qualified international candidates with equivalent experience

Fees

  • Application fee: None
  • Other costs: Not specified

Key dates

  • Application Deadline: Rolling / until position is filled
  • Review Start Date: Immediate
  • Interview Period: Ongoing after initial screening
  • Start Date: To be negotiated upon appointment

Application materials

  • Cover Letter (aligned with YCBA mission and curatorial vision)
  • Updated CV / Résumé
  • Evidence of curatorial leadership experience
  • Portfolio of exhibitions or scholarly work (if applicable)
  • Professional references (as requested later in the process)

Additional notes

  • This is an on-site, full-time executive leadership role.
  • The museum is located in a landmark Louis I. Kahn building in New Haven, Connecticut.
  • All positions at YCBA are in person.
  • Yale University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • The search is managed in partnership with ZRG Aspen Leadership Group.