Director - University Galleries

Thank you for your interest in working at William Paterson University.

William Paterson University is a purpose-driven, proudly diverse community—designated as both a public Hispanic-Serving Institution and Minority-Serving Institution—committed to creating transformative academic, professional, and personal experiences as a powerhouse of progress. We foster a workplace that values growth, flexibility, and community, and we are recognized as a 2024 and 2025 Forbes’ Best Employers by State, 2025 Great College to Work For, and honored with the NJBIZ Empowering Women Award. 

Our 1,000 dedicated staff members enjoy competitive benefits, a four-day summer workweek, tuition support, and strong opportunities for internal promotion. Situated on a scenic suburban campus just 20 miles from New York City, WP offers a diverse, inclusive environment where your contributions fuel student success, economic and social mobility, and community engagement. Together, we empower our students through intentional, holistic support within flexible, innovative, and inclusive settings—preparing graduates to thrive professionally and personally, and to lead with a commitment to progress in New Jersey and beyond. 

William Paterson invites applications for a twelve-month full-time position as Director of the University Galleries beginning January 2026.

The University Galleries serve as a cultural resource for William Paterson University, neighboring communities and the region by presenting exhibitions of visual and multimedia arts and offering educational programs. The Galleries seek to introduce diverse audiences to contemporary art and artists and enhance visitors' appreciation and knowledge of the arts. For more information visit: https://www.wpunj.edu/coac/gallery/.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Dean, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CAHSS), the Galleries Director is responsible for the operation and overall administration of the Ben Shahn Galleries and others (University Galleries). The Director interacts with the public, liaising with artists and coordinating and overseeing exhibitions and public programs. The Director provides leadership and management in the development and implementation of the University Galleries programming to broaden awareness of and increase attendance at Gallery exhibitions and events. The Director works collaboratively with internal constituents and external stakeholders to plan, organize and implement educational programs with outreach efforts to local communities and school districts.

Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Manages the logistics of curating and organizing exhibitions.
• Develops Gallery programming that integrates University, College and Departmental engagement.
• Has responsibility for the collections management, enhancement and expansion in collaboration with the Dean’s office and the standing Collections Committee.
• Works with the university’s Office of Marketing and Public relations to develop and produce marketing materials.
• Develops and manages University Gallery budget and exhibition budget.
• Develops and implements policies and procedures to ensure effective and efficient operation of the galleries.
• Identifies, develops and implements strategies to diversify revenue streams including donor, corporate and foundation sources.
• Preserves and maintains accurate records of art works which are part of the permanent collection as well as temporary exhibits.
• Establishes and maintains relationships, partnerships and collaborations which support the Galleries and University mission, with on and off campus constituents including but not limited to academic departments, Institutional Advancement and external stakeholders.
• Identifies opportunities, develops, and implements strategies to foster and strengthen community outreach which contribute to the cultural enrichment of the internal and external community.
• Maintains and updates the Galleries’ strategic plan with achievable goals and measures and ensures regular assessment of outcomes for continuous improvement; works with the Galleries Advisory Board on strategic planning and assessment.
• Represents the University at meetings and conferences.
• Works on ad hoc projects and performs other duties as determined by the Dean.

Required Qualifications:

• Master of Arts in Museum Studies, Art History or a related field.
• Minimum three years of experience working in a managerial capacity in an art museum, gallery or organization.
• Excellent writing ability and communication skills, and the ab