Senior Interpretation Planner (Museum Exhibitions)

The British Museum is embarking on an ambitious, long-term Masterplan to reimagine the visitor experience for future generations. We're looking for a Senior Interpretation Planner to help shape this transformation — someone who brings creativity, strategic thinking and audience-focused insight to some of the most significant gallery redevelopment projects in our history. This role offers a unique opportunity to deliver innovative, sector leading special exhibition and displays, working with colleagues across the museum, notably in curatorial departments, 2D and 3D design and Learning and Programmes. You will play a substantive part in the renewal and transformation at the British Museum, working on new displays relating to the Masterplan and redevelopment of the Western Range and bring together innovation storytelling, world leading curation and ambitious design to create memorable and transformative visitor experiences. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with experience writing and developing concepts in the field of museum or heritage interpretation and museum design, where people and audiences remain the center of your focus.

Key areas of responsibility include Interpretive Planning and Management, which involves developing ambitious, sector-leading interpretation plans for major gallery projects and museum-wide initiatives. You will shape the conceptual, narrative and intellectual structure of allocated displays, work with curatorial and design teams to ensure compelling content and strong visitor-centred storytelling, and define briefs for digital media, interactives and special graphics. People Management responsibilities include line-managing Interpretation Managers, supporting their development and day-to-day work, managing freelance editors, researchers and contracted specialists. You will also contribute to Museum-wide interpretation strategy and deputise for the Head of Interpretation when required.

About you: You should have 8–10 years' experience in writing and developing concepts in the field of museum or heritage interpretation and museum design. A strong track record in interpretive planning and editorial work is essential. Experience using visitor research and evaluation to shape content with an awareness of sector leading projects in the UK and overseas is also required. Ideally, you will have experience of working with a wide range of public, including young people and community groups and working on major capital projects. Confidence presenting to and influencing senior stakeholders, exceptional storytelling and writing skills, and the ability to translate complex ideas into meaningful, accessible narratives are crucial. You must have proven ability to own and manage multiple high-profile projects in fast-paced environments and possess strong interpersonal, diplomatic and influencing skills. The ability to lead, motivate and inspire creative teams is also necessary.

Benefits: At the British Museum, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. That's why we've designed a benefits package that goes beyond the ordinary. Our full list of benefits includes free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access, 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years), peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community, learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications, Employee Assistance Programme available 24/7 for counselling, wellbeing support and more, enhanced parental leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave, support for carers through Employers for Carers, and Civil Service Pension Scheme with a secure, inflation-linked defined benefit. Interest-free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans are also available.