Job title Gallery Assistant
Contract 9 day fortnight, alternate 5 day/4 day working weeks (Subject to a 3 month probation period)
Salary £30,000 per annum, pro-rata
Location Margate, Kent
Reporting to Associate Director and Directors
Based at our 10,000-square-foot Margate HQ, this is an exciting opportunity to become part of the operations at Carl Freedman Gallery. We are seeking a proactive individual to support our ambitious program of large-scale solo presentations and curated exhibitions. The Gallery Assistant will support the wider Gallery team and facilitate the essential operations that allow our gallery and sibling business, Counter Editions, to thrive.
Gallery Operations and Administration:
Daily Management: Assist with the daily running of the Gallery. Assisting with variety of general office administration.
Database Oversight: Manage data entry and ensure all art movements are meticulously recorded in the Artlogic database.
Communication Assistance: Respond to press requests and manage all exhibition mail-outs and mailing lists.
Visitor Experience: Field calls and confidently provide information about exhibitions and artists to visitors.
Exhibition and Event Support:
Event Coordination: Help oversee private views and gallery events. Ordering necessary supplies for events and coordinating with Front of House teams to ensure smooth execution.
Exhibition Administration: Produce supportive exhibition materials.
Art Fair Assistance: Provide administrative and practical assistance for domestic and international art fairs.
Digital Asset Management: Perform basic image archiving and document gallery activities for promotional use.
Building Management and Logistics Support:
Facility Oversight: Helping keep all areas of the building inside and out tidy and clean. Liaise with contractors for repairs, improvements, and services such as cleaning and waste removal.
Storage Management: Work with on-site techs to maintain storage areas, ensuring they remain tidy and organised.
General Administration: Manage inward post and deliveries and perform general running jobs as needed. Maintaining office and store-room supplies.
Essential Skills and Experience:
Proven administrative experience within a contemporary art gallery or comparable cultural organisation is essential. A strong understanding of professional gallery operations, office systems, and administrative culture is required.
Demonstrable business and organisational experience, with the ability to manage administrative processes efficiently, prioritise workload, and support the smooth running of a busy gallery environment.
A clear commitment to working in gallery administration as a long-term professional path, rather than as a secondary role alongside another primary career or practice.
Show knowledge of and/or a commitment to the Margate creative community.
Excellent command of English with strong written and verbal communication skills.
A meticulous eye for detail and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Proficient at using Macs.
A helpful, enthusiastic disposition. Must have a flexible approach to a variety of practical and administrative tasks.
Candidates must be based locally – remote working will not be possible for this role.
Desired Skills and Experience:
Computer literacy: proficient at using Excel, Word, Email apps, as well as work management platforms such as Trello. Must have an aptitude to learn additional and new programs where needed.
Experience in using Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop and InDesign) (highly desirable but not essential).
Experience with database management, specifically Artlogic (highly desirable but not essential).
Art handling experience.
Valid driver's license.
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Benefits:
Working Pattern: A flexible 9 day fortnight work schedule, providing a balanced schedule within Margate's creative hub.
Relocation Allowance: Financial support available for the right candidate moving to the Margate area to join the team.
Retention Bonus: A dedicated retention bonus scheme to reward long-term commitment and performance.
Annual Pay Review: Potential for an annual salary review based on performance and contribution to the business.
Unique Industry Access: Rare, hands-on involvement in two leading fine art businesses – Carl Freedman Gallery and Counter Editions.