Position Description:

Vanderbilt University’s College of Arts & Science seeks a director for the Vanderbilt University Museum of Art (VUMA). VUMA was established in 1927, and contains over 15,000 objects which demonstrate the broad scope of Eastern and Western art, from antiquity through contemporary with strengths in East Asian art, early modern European prints, and 20th century photography. 

Vanderbilt University values immersive and experiential learning with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and trans-institutional approaches to the visual arts. The director will work with faculty and staff across the college to help develop and nurture student engagement with art and visual culture, and to support their interests in museums, galleries, heritage-based exhibitions and programming, and the arts market. A qualified candidate may hold a secondary appointment on the faculty of the Department of History of Art and Architecture where they will contribute to the new Museums & Markets minor through teaching in the area of museum studies or their field of academic specialization, and/or by mentoring interns.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Provide visionary leadership, training, and supervision for a small team of staff and student workers
• Oversee the museum’s budget, manage expenditures, and identify and pursue external funding opportunities
• Set priorities for acquisitions, collections research, management and conservation
• Oversee the development of innovative, engaging, and dynamic exhibitions, displays, and accompanying literature and promotional materials
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and alumni to integrate VUMA into the wider campus community, particularly key units such as the Curb Center for Arts, Enterprise, and Public Policy; departments such as the History of Art and Architecture, Art, Cinema and Media Studies; and programs such as the Museums and Markets minor.
• Engage Nashville communities to position VUMA as a leading arts space in the city.
• Develop a vision for educational programs and outreach.
• Work closely with the offices of Development and Alumni Relations on sustained fundraising efforts
• Represent VUMA in national organizations and networks to increase its visibility

Qualifications: 

• A master’s degree in art history, museum studies, or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary. M.F.A. or PhD preferred. 
• At least five years of relevant professional experience working in a gallery or museum and/or in a comparable management/supervisory role at a similar institutional setting
• A deep respect for the impact that cultural heritage materials can have on education, demonstrated success in teaching, and a commitment to inclusive pedagogical practices
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with faculty, staff, students, researchers, alumni, and donors
• Familiarity with scholarship in art and architectural history,  curatorial studies, and related disciplines
• Familiarity with the use of CMS, MuseumPlus preferred

Application Requirements: 

• Comprehensive CV/Resume
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Leadership Philosophy (optional)
• List of at least three (3) professional references

Salary and Benefits: 

Competitive, commensurate with qualifications and experience

Application Deadline:

March 1, 2026

For full consideration, all materials must be submitted electronically by the application deadline. Please direct all questions to sheppard.wright@vanderbilt.edu .

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.