Docent Programs Coordinator [Columbus Museum of Art, OH]

Description

The Columbus Museum of Art is seeking a full-time Docent Programs Coordinator to oversee the daily operations of CMA’s docent program, including tour scheduling and ongoing continuing education.  The Coordinator will model best practices in tour facilitation and develop strong working relationships with docents and docent program partners with the goal of sustaining and growing a high-quality, visitor-centered docent program.

Docent Program Duties and Responsibilities:

• Works with Executive Deputy Director of Learning and Experience and the Docent Chairperson  to implement goals and outcomes of the docent program.
• Schedules and administers docent continuing education (both weekday and evening/weekend sessions), including scheduling and selection of guest speakers.  May teach some sessions.
• Works with Executive Deputy Director and Docent Leadership to maintain and improve quality of tours through implementing reflective practices and effective evaluation systems.
• Develops docent study materials and online resources; provides assistance and information to the museum docents about collections and exhibitions.
• May coordinate  recruitment of new docents as needed, including preparing applications, advertising for candidates, hosting open houses, and interviewing candidates with Docent Leadership. Will also take a lead role in training new docent recruits.
• Acts as staff liaison to Docent Committee:
  • Attends quarterly Docent Committee meetings,
  • Reviews  annual docent intent and comment forms,
  • Acts as liaison between staff and active docents,
  • Implements and enforces Docent Policies,
  • Contributes to and approves final copy for docent newsletter; prepares summer docent       newsletter with pertinent fall information.
• Responds to  individual docent requests and inquiries.

 Tours and Facilitated Programs Responsibilities:

• Works with Executive Deputy Director to implement agenda for programs and learning outcomes for schools and students.
• Administers various tour programs that docents facilitate for K-12 audiences and adults and models best practices in tour facilitation.
• Oversees annual production and distribution of Teacher Resource Brochure and strategic audience development in conjunction with the Learning Department.
• Collaborates with appropriate staff to develop and present Art Teaches E-Newsletter and educational websites.
• Maintains and develops relationships with external partners and collaborators.
• Interviews and manages interns as needed.
• Assists with other programming as needed, including school and teacher programs.  May assist with teacher professional development and communicate with educator and teacher groups.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Keeps docent files up to date; records participation in specialized groups and leadership roles; compiles yearly docent roster.
• Provides computer, clerical, and accounting support to the docent program.
• Ensures adequate coverage of all docent tours by monitoring tours online, recruiting through email and individuals if necessary.
• Manages all components of tour scheduling process in conjunction with Visitor Experience Coordinator; works with Manager of Learning  and Experience Operations to assure all paperwork, billing, budgeting and scheduling is being implemented properly.
• Works with Administration to secure funding and marketing for programs and materials.

In addition to specific program and administrative responsibilities, the Docent Programs Coordinator must:

• Support and advance the Museum’s mission, vision and values;
• Support the Museum’s strategic plan, annual priorities, and institutional initiatives;
• Support the Learning Department and Center for Creativity’s vision, principles, and practices;

Requirements

The Docent Programs Coordinator should have a Master’s degree in education, art history or related field; Strong  candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will be considered.  Must have experience working in art education and with volunteers.  Demonstrated planning and organizational, programming and teaching skills required.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Must display poise, diplomacy, positive attitude and enthusiasm.  Must be able to collaborate, advise, supervise and motivate staff and volunteers.  Must  be able to accommodate a flexible work schedule including evening and weekend hours.