Recruitment Advertisement: Curatorial Director

The Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett-UP) is one of South Africa’s most distinctive art institution, established through a unique partnership between the University of Pretoria and the Arts Centre Foundation. 

Javett-UP is dedicated to advancing historical and contemporary art from Africa and its diasporas through exhibitions, collections, research, education, transdisciplinary learning and public engagement. Bridging artistic practice, public engagement and academic inquiry, the Art Centre creates opportunities for dialogue, creativity, scholarship and new ways of thinking through the arts.

We are seeking an exceptional Curatorial Director to provide artistic, intellectual and cultural leadership for Javett-UP's curatorial programme and to help shape the next chapter of one of South Africa's leading art institutions.

THE ROLE

The Curatorial Director plays a central role in defining the institution's artistic vision and intellectual direction, positioning Javett-UP as a leading voice in contemporary African art and institutional practice.

The Curatorial Director is responsible for developing and delivering an ambitious, research-led curatorial programme that strengthens the Art Centre’s reputation locally, across Africa and internationally. 

Working in partnership with the Chief Executive Officer, the Curatorial Director is responsible for translating Javett-UP's strategic priorities into impactful curatorial initiatives that advance the organisation's mission while maintaining the highest standards of artistic, curatorial excellence through its exhibitions, collections, researchand public programmes.

The role plays an important part in fostering meaningful partnerships with artists, scholars, academics, cultural organisations and international institutions, as well as advancing the Javett-UP’s priorities in teaching, transdisciplinary learning and research while contributing to the Art Centre’s distinct mission as an independent public institution serving diverse audiences and communities.

As a member of the senior leadership team, the Curatorial Director leads and mentors the Curatorial Department, contributes specialist expertise to organisational planning and decision-making, supports fundraising and partnership development, and ensures that curatorial programmes are delivered within approved governance, financial and operational frameworks.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will:

• Provide artistic, intellectual and cultural leadership for Javett-UP's curatorial programme, advancing a distinctive curatorial vision aligned with the organisation's strategic direction.

• Lead the development and delivery of an innovative programme of exhibitions, research, publications and public engagement. 

• Provide strategic leadership for the stewardship, development, interpretation and research of the Centre's collections.

• Strengthen Javett-UP's contribution to the University of Pretoria's teaching, learning, research, transdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement priorities. 

• Foster collaborative relationships with artists, academics, collectors, cultural organisations, funding partners and local and international institutions. 

• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing Curatorial Department. 

• Ensure responsible stewardship of departmental resources through effective planning, budgeting and project oversight. 

• Contribute to organisational strategy by providing curatorial expertise, supporting fundraising initiatives and advancing the long-term sustainability of Javett-UP.

• Represent Javett-UP nationally and internationally, strengthening its profile, partnerships and reputation. 

REQUIREMENTS

The ideal candidate should be an accomplished curator and strategic leader with a strong record of exhibition development, artistic leadership, institutional collaboration and public engagement.

Minimum Requirements

• A postgraduate qualification (Master's degree or higher) in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, Fine Arts or a related discipline. 

• Extensive senior-level curatorial experience within an art museum, gallery, art centre or comparable cultural institution. 

• A demonstrated track record of curating significant exhibitions and leading curatorial projects that foster public engagement, dialogue and knowledge exchange.

• Experience leading professional teams and managing complex projects and budgets. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• The ability to build and maintain productive relationships with artists, lenders, donors, academic partners and other stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to build international institutional partnerships and contribute to global conversations on the art of Africa.

  
  

Desirable Attributes

• A demonstrated record of scholarly research and publications. 

• Experience working within or in partnership with a university museum or higher education institution. 

• Experience securing funding, developing partnerships or contributing to sustainability initiatives. 

• Experience working across disciplines and collaborating with researchers, academics or other knowledge partners. 

• A commitment to collaboration, innovation, transdisciplinary practice and public engagement. 

• Experience presenting at conferences or participating in international curatorial networks.

  
  

WHY JOIN JAVETT-UP?

This position presents an opportunity to shape the artistic direction of one of Africa's leading art centres in a new phase of its development and to work at the intersection of 

contemporary curatorial practice, collections stewardship, artistic collaboration, academic scholarship and public engagement.

The successful candidate will join an ambitious organisation committed to expanding knowledge, fostering critical dialogue, building meaningful partnerships and creating lasting impact through the art of Africa and its culturally significant collections.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Application Closing Date: 14 August 2026

Expected Start Date: 1 September 2026 (or by mutual agreement)

Applications should include:

• A comprehensive curriculum vitae. 

• An expression of interest, cover letter outlining the applicant's suitability for the role. 

• Contact details of three professional referees who may be contacted.

• Copies of relevant qualifications. 

  
  

Applications should be submitted to: [email protected]

Email Subject: Name & Surname – Application: Curatorial Director (e.g. Smith, Jane – Application: Curatorial Director)

PLEASE NOTE: No application will be considered if it does not comply with the minimum requirements. 

PLEASE NOTE 

1. Shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the interview/selection process. 

2. The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the successful candidate's qualifications, skills and experience, within the approved remuneration framework for the position.

3. Javett-UP is committed to equal opportunity, diversity and employment equity - and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds, particularly those from under-represented designated groups.

4. By applying for this position, candidates consent to the verification of qualifications, employment history, professional references and any other information reasonably required to assess their suitability for the role. Where appropriate, this may include criminal record and other relevant background checks conducted in accordance with applicable legislation.

5. Javett-UP thanks all applicants for their interest in this opportunity. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within six weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

6. Appointment is subject to the successful completion of all applicable pre-employment verification processes.

7. Javett-UP reserves the right not to fill this position.