Manager of Publications Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project

Founded in 1937, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of art, architecture, and other manifestations of visual culture, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods. The Guggenheim realizes this mission through exceptional exhibitions, education programs, research initiatives, and publications. The Guggenheim strives to engage and educate an increasingly diverse international audience through its unique network of museums and partnerships. With nearly three million annual visitors worldwide, the Guggenheim and its network are among the most visited cultural institutions in the world.

The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and is a museum of modern and contemporary art with a mission to contribute to and stimulate expansive perspectives on the history of art. Presenting an international collection with a specific focus on West Asia, North Africa, and South Asia (WANASA), Guggenheim Abu Dhabi fosters a deeper understanding of how different local, regional, and international forces have shaped the interconnected histories and cultures of our time.

SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Manager of Publications Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project will be working independently and reporting to the Curator and Interim Director of Curatorial Affairs with a dotted line to the Senior Manager for Communications, Content, and Marketing Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project. The Manager of Publications is a critical member of the Museum’s team, responsible for providing a strategic vision for the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum’s publishing program, overseeing the publications team, and maintaining standards for Guggenheim Abu Dhabi publications. In advancing the institution's mission of promoting contemporary art and culture through effective communication and publications, the Manager of Publications plays a pivotal role in collaborating with the Senior Curator and Senior Manager for Communications, Content, and Marketing. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Publishing department produces exhibition and collection catalogs, as well as artist’s editions, and oversees editorial processes for exhibition didactics and digital content. This dynamic position combines a passion for art, strong editorial skills, and a keen eye for design and bookmaking to shape the museum's narrative and engage its diverse audience.

SKILL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 5 years of editorial and publication management, preferably within the arts or cultural sector, coupled with a passion for arts and culture.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a deep appreciation for contemporary art.

• Expertise in shaping and refining publication departments, preferably in the cultural sector.

• Creative and strategic thinking to drive innovation in publications.

• Solid understanding of publication budgets, timelines, and agreement structures.

• Extensive editorial skills and knowledge of design and production processes.

• Excellent understanding of distribution networks and logistic processes.

• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments and with staff at all levels across the organization.

• Fluency in English; reading and speaking knowledge of Arabic is a plus.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to think creatively and strategically.

• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing priorities and utilize excellent judgment when dealing with highly confidential information.

• Excellent attention to detail with the ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment is a must.

• Ability to be proactive, use independent judgment, and initiative.

• Proficiency in digital publishing tools and software.

• Computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

• Experience with InDesign and Photoshop is a plus.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive publication strategy that aligns with Guggenheim Abu Dhabi's mission and objectives—this includes overseeing the creation of exhibition catalogs, booklets, and digital publications.

• Lead working groups of writers/authors, editors, and designers to produce high-quality and engaging content.

• Ensure that all publications maintain a consistent and compelling voice while adhering to the highest editorial standards.

• Contribute to content creation by researching and assigning articles, essays, and other written materials related to contemporary art and the museum's exhibitions and collections.

• Collaborate with graphic designers and artists to ensure that publications are visually appealing, innovative, and reflective of the museum's artistic vision, ensuring the highest design and production standards are achieved for all publications.

• Oversee the entire publication production process, from concept development to printing and distribution.

• Establish publication priorities considering both the dissemination of new scholarship and commercial viability.

• Manage budgets, timelines, and external vendors to ensure successful outcomes.

• Collaborate with Finance and Retail to set benchmark goals for publications revenue.

• Explore and implement digital publication strategies to reach a broader and more tech-savvy audience, including e-books and interactive content.

• Maintain an organized archive of all museum publications for historical and research purposes.

• Work closely with curators, educators, communications and marketing teams, and other museum departments to ensure that publications support and enhance the visitor experience and educational initiatives.

• Identify opportunities to engage the museum's audience through publications, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.

WORK DEMANDS and ENVIRONMENT:

• Ability to travel within the metropolitan area as required to perform the above duties at any of the Guggenheim’s owned or leased properties upon request.

• Occasionally, work may be conducted outdoors, with exposure to varied weather conditions.

• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on occasion.

• Ability to lift at least 25 lbs.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in art history, Journalism, Communications, or related field.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

REPORTS TO: Curator and Interim Director of Curatorial Affairs with a dotted line to Senior Manager for Communications, Content, and Marketing Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project

LOCATION: One Liberty Plaza New York, NY 10006

WORK SCHEDULE: 40 Hours per Week, Schedule TBD

POSITION TYPE: Full-time, Non-Exempt, This is a position covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Local 2110, UAW.

SALARY RANGE: $66,950 – $74,000 Annually


The Guggenheim is dedicating itself to creating paths that lead to a more inclusive and diverse institution. We encourage inquiries from applicants who will reflect the plurality of our culture and our global audience. The Guggenheim does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, marital status, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin or disability status.