Job: Digital Collections Initiative Manager at The Henry Ford

Note:  To apply for this position, please submit your resume via U.S. mail, fax:  (313)982.6226, or email:  employment@thehenryford.org

Digital Collections Initiative Manager     (Full time / 2 yr position)

SUMMARY OF PURPOSE

 As an institution dedicated to fostering a spirit of innovation through unique educational experiences, The Henry Ford values our collections as key resources.  The Digital Collections Initiative Manager manages a cross-functional team for The Henry Ford Digital Collections Initiative.  With the implementation of a new collections information system, THF takes a critical step in our commitment to digitize our nationally significant collections.  The goal of the Digital Collections Initiative is to provide meaningful collections information and digital access for our many audiences. Reports to the Director of Historical Resources with regular reporting to the Digitization Initiative Executive Team. 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

 Management

1. Manages the process and flow of work, using meaningful metrics through various departments to reach departmental and institutional goals.
2. Addresses logistical and tactical needs for THF Digital Collections Initiative that are in keeping with best practices of digitization.
3. Understands the views of the various stakeholders and works to meet their needs.
4. Organizes all work, project teams and units involved in the digitization process by sharing pertinent information in a timely manner.
5. Drives successful completion of objectives, including purchasing appropriate equipment and ensuring adequate work space is available.

 

Communication

1. Provides central, internal communication and coordination of activities and exchange of information regarding digitization efforts.
2. Recommends policies, procedures and priorities to senior management and CILT.
3. Implements priorities established by senior management and CILT, provides regular updates to CILT and stakeholders on status of ongoing work.

 

Technical and Administrative Skills

1. Ensures progress of schedules and implements approved adjustments as necessary.
2. Enforces the evaluation process for the review of content and images to ensure that they meet established standards.
3. Work with ITS and CILT team to develop policies and processes regarding digital storage of the Museum's digital assets, including a Digital Asset Management system (DAM).
4. Monitors the system for tracking movement of collections and process status that is readily available to team members and stakeholders using EMu.
5. Organizes regular meetings to document decisions and status of projects.
6. Keeps master project list.

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Demonstrated management experience with implementation of an organization-wide digitization project is highly desirable. BA degree in information management, business management, museum studies, history, or other relevant subject with training or coursework in digital management. MA degree preferred. Demonstrated experience with museum collections management systems.  Individual must have a high customer service focus and general understanding of museum operations, including collections and exhibit-related business across a range of disciplines throughout the museum. Project management training or substantive experience necessary.

 

SPECIAL SKILLS

Must have good organizational and communication skills and be attentive to detail.  Must have the ability to work independently, as well as working with a variety of people and excel in a team-based, cross-functional  environment.  Highly developed problem-solving skills and an ability to manage change in business processes is necessary.  Ability to manage multiple priorities and to think and act flexibly to achieve desired outcomes essential. 

PHYSICAL/MENTAL/ENVIRONMENTAL

Physical:               

Sitting:                                  

70%

Standing/Walking:              

30%

Lifting:                  

Occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs.

Vision:                   

Normal; frequently requires working for long periods at computer

Mental:                 

Must be good at interpreting, problem solving and decision making

Environment:       

Occasional exposure to chemicals, dust and mold