Temporary Exhibition Consultant
Dacorum Heritage Closing date: Fri, 02 Oct 2026
- Part time
- Under £10K
- Apply now
Fri, 11 Sep 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
This is an exciting opportunity to shape a distinctive exhibition exploring the visual and cultural story of one of Britain's best-known brands. Through original paintings, illustration, graphic design, photography and typography, The Art of Ovaltine will journey decade by decade through Ovaltine advertising, revealing changing ideas about British family life, health, design and everyday living.
Drawing on the richness of the Dacorum Heritage collection, the exhibition will be accessible, visually engaging and thought-provoking, with audiences ranging from families and local residents to heritage audiences, design enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
We have the story, the collection and the historical knowledge - we need your creative expertise to turn them into a compelling exhibition. We will provide the existing concept, collection knowledge and historical context, while the successful consultant will build on this foundation to develop a coherent, memorable and achievable exhibition that makes the most of the available material, space and audience opportunity.
The Project Assistant currently supporting the exhibition is leaving their post, so additional specialist capacity is now needed to maintain momentum and bring the project through to completion. The timeframe is deliberately tight, with preparation needing to begin in October, and we are therefore looking for a consultant who can quickly understand the work undertaken to date, bring fresh ideas and professional expertise, and confidently lead the project towards delivery.
Job Requirements
We are looking for an imaginative, organised and collaborative exhibition professional with experience of developing and delivering exhibitions, visitor experiences or cultural programmes.
You will have:
* Experience turning an existing exhibition concept into an engaging visitor experience.
* Strong exhibition design, interpretation and audience development skills.
* Experience presenting collection material, images and objects effectively and accessibly.
* Excellent project management skills and the ability to work to a fixed budget and timetable.
* Experience planning public programmes, workshops or events.
* Confidence working with staff, volunteers, creative practitioners and external partners.
* Experience of marketing, audience engagement and evaluation.
* Excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
* A practical, hands-on approach to installation and delivery.
Museum, heritage or community experience is desirable.
Job Responsibilities
Working with Dacorum Heritage, the consultant will take The Art of Ovaltine from concept through design, installation, public opening, programming, evaluation and clearance.
Key responsibilities include:
* Refine the exhibition concept, narrative, visitor journey, displays, interpretation, graphics and signage.
* Develop an engaging, accessible and practical design for Berkhamsted Civic Centre Main Hall.
* Advise on presenting collection material, images and objects.
* Work within the agreed budget and timetable.
* Support family and adult workshops, drop-in activities and merchandise.
* Coordinate the pre-view, including visitor welcome, staffing and feedback.
* Advise on staff and volunteer briefings, rotas and cover.
* Provide content for social media, web, press and local networks.
* Support visitor data and feedback collection.
* Produce a concise evaluation report with recommendations.
* Support installation from 14 March and clearance on 10 April 2027.
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Temporary Exhibition Consultant
- Salary: Under £10K
- Hours: Part time
- Artform: Museums
- Role: Curation
- Contract: Contract
- Closing date: Fri, 02 Oct 2026
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Location:
| view on Google MapsEast
Job: Temporary Exhibition Consultant
Job: Temporary Exhibition Consultant
Organisation: Dacorum Heritage
Postcode: HP4 3YL
How to Apply
We would love to hear your ideas. Please send a concise proposal explaining how you would approach The Art of Ovaltine. Clear thinking, relevant insight and a realistic delivery plan matter more to us than elaborate presentation.
Applications should include:
1. A concise proposal outlining your approach and delivery plan.
2. Relevant examples, experience and a current CV or portfolio.
3. Confirmation of availability and ability to deliver for the fixed fee.
4. Any anticipated additional expenses or third-party costs.
Please submit your proposal and supporting information electronically to:
Melissa Linsey
Museum Manager
Dacorum Heritage
Email: [email protected]
Please use the subject line: Application – The Art of Ovaltine Exhibition Consultant
- Contact name: Melissa Linsey
- Contact email: [email protected]
About Dacorum Heritage
Dacorum Heritage is an Accredited Museum caring for more than 132,000 artefacts spanning 6,000 years of local history. Our Museum Store in Berkhamsted welcomes researchers, groups and visitors by appointment.
The collection includes the UK Ovaltine archive (1909–2002): more than 12,000 documents, artworks and objects illustrating the history and advertising of this enduring brand. The exhibition will bring this distinctive collection to a prominent public venue.