Exhibition Production Manager

Description:

The Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal (MAC) is looking for an Exhibition Production Manager to join its conservation and artistic programming team. The role is based in the museum's temporary space at Place Ville Marie, in the heart of downtown Montreal, as part of a transformation project. As an exhibition production manager, you will be responsible for planning and supervising all technical activities related to exhibition installations, ensuring smooth execution during setup, and overseeing daily operations within the department. The role requires close collaboration with different sectors of the museum and ensuring the maintenance of exhibitions.

Key Responsibilities:

Exhibition and Event Set-Up:

• Act as an advisor to various departments regarding the planning and management of exhibition projects and cultural activities.

• Plan and organize exhibition setups and cultural activities in collaboration with the museum's various departments.

• Propose schedules for exhibitions and assess the resources required (equipment, materials, personnel).

• Maintain and update operation calendars.

• Obtain quotes and order materials and supplies for the department’s activities.

• Communicate with suppliers, transporters, and museum services.

• Develop construction plans and specifications for each exhibition project.

• Evaluate techniques and propose solutions to issues related to presenting and installing artworks.

• Communicate with artists, designers, and other stakeholders to plan and execute exhibitions.

• Supervise exhibition setup staff to meet project goals.

• Lead the team during exhibition setups/breakdowns and related cultural activities.

• Collaborate with the audiovisual team to ensure smooth exhibition setup.

• Work with archive, collection, and exhibition staff to assess the technical aspects of circulating and installing exhibitions and artworks outside the museum.

• Ensure the proper maintenance of exhibition spaces in collaboration with the conservator during the exhibition period.

Ongoing Operations:

• Assist with managing the department's budget, staff, and equipment.

• Ensure the availability of spaces, equipment, and personnel for the execution of projects.

• Identify training needs for department employees.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety practices within the department.

• Manage equipment maintenance programs and inventory.

• Participate in the creation of guidelines and procedures for the department.

• Ensure the return of materials, equipment, and supplies when possible.

• Perform other tasks as requested by the director.

Required Profile:

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

• A technical degree in museology is a plus.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in exhibition management and installation in a museum environment.

• 2 to 5 years of experience in staff supervision.

Skills and Competencies:

• Knowledge of museological practices and techniques related to exhibition production and setup.

• Strong understanding of construction techniques.

• Experience in project management and resource evaluation.

• Proficient with design software (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Adobe Photoshop) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.).

• Fluency in spoken and written French; proficiency in English is required for communication with non-French-speaking artists.

• Knowledge of contemporary art practices and the museum field.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize.

• Ability to work independently, with initiative, rigor, and attention to detail.

• Excellent teamwork and customer service skills.

Employment Conditions:

• Type of Position: Permanent, full-time (35 hours per week, Monday to Friday).

• Salary: Between 54,186 CAD and 102,765 CAD annually.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Flexible work hours promoting work-life balance.

  • Employee-centric management focused on well-being and experience.

  • Multiple training workshops available throughout the year.

  • Free access to exhibitions and cultural activities at the MAC and with partners.

  • Sustainable mobility initiatives (discounts on BIXI, proximity to metro, parking, and more).

  • Eligibility for the government employee pension plan (RREGOP).

  • Employee assistance program (EAP).

  • Health benefits after 30 days of employment.

  • 4 weeks of vacation per year after 1 year of service.

  • 10 sick days annually (5 of which can be used as mobile leave).

  • Free coffee and social events.