Once one of the most important Tudor houses in Hampshire, over its 500+ years of history The Vyne has evolved with dramatic additions and losses. Owned by taste makers whose valued connoisseurship made a lasting impact, The Vyne remained at the forefront of fashion throughout its history. This vibrant and significant collection - both portable and architectural – is testimony to the people who have shaped the property and is key to unlocking the rich layers at The Vyne. When making decisions about The Vyne’s future, generations of owners carefully considered and researched these collections. We're looking for a thoughtful and creative leader to continue and move forward their work. Perhaps some of the greatest parts of the story and significance are yet to be discovered.

This is a fixed term contract due to end when the previous employee returns from maternity leave.  At this point we cannot confirm exactly how long this contract will last, but it is unlikely to be more than 12 months.

Interviews: 19 June 2023.

From Tudor beginnings to a family home, throughout The Vyne’s life there has been a running thread of re-use. Staircases became attic beams and fireplaces and ceilings have swapped rooms. Over the centuries generations have repaired and respected The Vyne. We have recently built a reputation for our conservation work, the scale of the projects and the quality of the visitor engagement. 

Exciting times lie ahead as we look at new ways of conserving and curating our collections, to ensure our interpretation and programming is dynamic and relevant to a diverse audience.

The Vyne has a rural location, please think about how you’d be able to get here for work, before you apply for this job.

Click here for more information about this location

Reporting directly to the General Manager, with professional support from internal specialists, you’ll develop a curatorial vision and long-term plan for the mansion, gardens and estate. You’ll lead the team responsible for developing and improving collections care and management. You’ll work to enhance the relevance of our interiors and collections, demonstrating public benefit through high-quality and innovative presentation, research, interpretation and programming.

You'll strive for a full and honest exploration of The Vyne’s history and collections working with academics, partners, local communities and source communities to ensure historic accuracy and representation work hand in hand.

Championing the historic significance and understanding of the whole property you’ll improve our knowledge of the collection through managing a programme of research.

Working with other property leadership team members, you’ll grow support for the property and its conservation work, including hosting specialist visits and fundraising events.

We value lived experience as well as formal knowledge and skills, and welcome applicants able to demonstrate the following:

• In-depth understanding and experience of working with historic collections and properties
• Good experience of collections management and care, and knowledge of how to take an informed and broad approach to conservation management
• Experience of team leadership, with a strong understanding of how to work collaboratively and develop talent within the team
• Ability to connect with a wide range of audiences
• Capability to undertake, lead on, interpret, and respond to external and internal research, intelligence, and analysis
• Passion, knowledge and inspiration as well as a practical, pragmatic and sensible approach to problem solving
• Relevant formal academic / professional / vocational qualifications in Art History, Museum Studies and related fields

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Tax free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most locations

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.