Job recruitment at Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA)

The Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA) is an independent non-profit organisation in Nigeria set up to drive research and execute high-value cultural, arts and heritage initiatives in West Africa. Our evolving research partners include major institutions such as the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM), the British Museum (BM), and the Deutsche Archaeological Institute (DAI).

Applications are invited for:

Job Title: Field Director, MOWAA Archaeology Project

Locations: Benin City and Lagos
Reporting Line: Director Heritage Management
Duration: 3-year fixed term role with potential for extension
Start Date: September 2023, subject to 6-month probation period

Job Overview

• The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is carrying out pre-construction archaeology and research investigations in the centre of Benin City in the context of the development of its new Creative District. This falls within the historic core of the pre-colonial city, the capital of the Benin Kingdom and one of the most important Heritage sites in West Africa.
• MOWAA is looking for a Field Director, who will work with colleagues from the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM), British Museum (BM), Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU) and Wessex Archaeology (WA) to undertake one of the largest programmes of excavation carried out in the region in recent years.
• We are looking for an experienced field archaeologist to support the second phase of the archaeological programme on the ground in Benin City.
• The appointee will lead MOWAA’s team of young and dynamic Nigerian archaeologists in carrying out field archaeological investigations in Benin City. They will be present on site in Benin City throughout the coming field investigations, taking place in late 2023 and 2024.
• Thereafter the appointee will play a leading role in co-ordinating the analysis, writing up and publication of the results of the excavations to be completed by the end of 2025. They will work closely in particular with the MOWAA Research Lead, NCMM’s Head of Archaeology, the Research co-Lead and Lead Archaeologist from the British Museum, and Cambridge Archaeology Unit’s Lead Archaeologist.
• This is a leadership role within a growing, pioneer research organization. As such, the Field Director will be expected to contribute to the development of research strategies, team professional development, institutional relationships and publications.
• They will work to develop these in light of the project, as well as for the longer-term advancement and sustainability of the organization.

Key Responsibilities
Excavation Methodology & Research:

• Develop clear and detailed method statements covering logistics, excavation methodology, finds recovery, environmental sampling, post-excavation analysis, reporting and publication;
• Oversee implementation of the project fieldwork for the MOWAA-British Museum excavations;
• Develop material and environmental research programmes working with specialists;
• Support the development of project research goals

Excavation Management:

• Working in close collaboration with the BM team and NCMM representatives, manage the implementation of method statements;
• Lead the MOWAA archaeological team, working in close collaboration with BM colleagues and other partners, in ensuring that all members of the team are clear about their roles and objectives over the period of the excavation and on a day by day basis;
• Liaise on site with the MOWAA construction manager and contractor representatives to ensure that there is mutual understanding of the archaeological programme and operations;
• Support ensuring the safe management of excavations in deeply stratified urban contexts, ensuring compliance with health and safety and security standards and procedures at all times;
• Ensure that finds are collected in line with project standards and processes;
• Ensure that the project recording methodology is understood by all members of the excavation team and applied consistently;
• Check the excavation records on a regular basis and ensure that they are complete and digitised at the end of the excavation period and stored in accordance with MOWAA data storage standards.

Post-excavation Analysis & Reporting:

• Ensure that finds and environmental sample processing is carried out in accordance with the method statement and in line with the project programme;
• Make sure that specialist analyses are undertaken in line with agreed method statements and the project programme;
• To ensure that samples for scientific dating are identified as early as possible in the post-excavation process and submitted for processing in a timely manner;
• Play a key role in the research and write up of each phase of excavation and the preparation of the final publication in line with agreed method statement and project design;
• Ensure that there is meaningful and effective engagement with historians, ethnographers, artisans and other knowledgeable members of the Benin community to ensure that interpretations of the archaeology are informed by local knowledge;
• To ensure that all members of the MOWAA archaeological team are aware of their responsibilities and the deliverables required from them.

Team Management & Training:

• Lead on the development of a MOWAA archaeological fieldwork manual;
• Ensure that the MOWAA archaeological team has the specialist skills necessary to deliver high quality fieldwork, analysis and reporting;
• Ensure that there is an effective programme of training and skills to fill any gaps in the skills required by the MOWAA team;
• Support funding applications, research collaborations and studentships relevant to MOWAA’s objectives;
• Support the development of MOWAA’s existing archaeological research facilities in Benin City.

Community Engagement and Advocacy:

• Support MOWAA’s ongoing programme of public engagement;
• To act as an advocate and a voice for the project within Nigeria and internationally.

Experience & Qualifications

• Preferably a PhD in Archaeology, although not essential for the right candidate;
• At least 10 years experience of archaeological fieldwork, including in Nigeria/West Africa;
• Experience of managing archaeology in the context of development;
• Ability to learn quickly and work independently
• Collaborative approach and ability to contribute to across different projects effectively
• Proficiency in MS Suite (required)
• Knowledge of modern geomatics, including the collection and processing of spatial data for use in publication/reporting plans and illustrations
• English fluency (required)

Career Growth & Development:

• MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post will be supported by global experts and institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates.
• By joining MOWAA team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on groundbreaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career. It is anticipated that in the longer term the appointee will lead the growth and development of the archaeological team at the MOWAA Pavilion.
• The successful specialist will be able to represent MOWAA at conferences and will take place in international training/exchange programmes.

Title: Collections and Research Assistant

Location: Lagos or London (Remote management)
Job type: Multi-year contract

Overview

• The Museum of West African Art, Edo (MOWAA) is an independent, charitable organisation that supports initiatives in cultural heritage, art, and archaeology. Our goal is to create a world class collection of exemplary West-African art and support museum development and conservation practice across the region through facilities and expertise of the Pavilion.
• Through our collection, we will provide wide-reaching public programmes, research and professional development opportunities, ensuring MOWAA supports the growing contemporary arts scene in Africa and the rebirth of the great artistic and creative traditions of Benin.
• MOWAA is seeking a talented and experienced Collections and Research Assistant to develop and drive the organization’s collection strategy for historic works. This is an exciting opportunity to join the MOWAA Collections department.
• The Collections and Research Assistant will work with the Curator to develop the collection, realise exhibitions and public programmes. You will support the Curator on the research and process of acquiring Nigerian Modernism Art, in collaboration with our Collections Management team.
• The Assistant will conduct research and documentation tasks and provide informed advice on works in external collections of private estates and artists.
• You will support functions related to the development and promotions of MOWAA’s growing collection, and assist the execution of world-class exhibitions, interfacing with artists, experts and practitioners internationally.
• During the process, you will be exposed to all components of museum practice, engaging with the curatorial department, collections management, conservation, fundraising, communications/PR, and operations.
• The ideal candidate will be an organised, flexible researcher and administrator, with experience of working semi-remotely.
• He/she will have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to take initiative and thrive in a busy team environment. An interest in the history of modern and contemporary art and desire to critically engage with the discipline – its interpretation, production, display and care – are essential.

Key Responsibilities
Research and duties may include:

• Record Building: Develop bibliographies reports for relevant artists; Maintain a directory of contemporary artists and private collectors in Nigeria and abroad
• Thematic Research: Conduct surveys and desk research on exhibition approaches, reproduction of digitized art, and other relevant topics and themes in West African Modern and Contemporary art
• Object Research: Draw up condition reports and loan request forms, auction house procedures, conservation requirements, publicity materials, cataloguing, photographic documentation of artwork for catalogues and museum and insurance records.
• Acquisition Planning: Ensure accurate and comprehensive documentation of acquired objects, including provenance, cataloging, photography, and other relevant records
• Exhibition Planning: Follow up with contributing artists, ensuring proper communication and coordination of space requirements, written submissions, art production and logistical requirements.
• Design input: Contribute to discussions with the Curator on philosophies and aesthetic considerations for exhibitions within a museum or gallery environment.
• Event Management: Support the planning and execution of fundraising and network building activities related to our collections and exhibition, including dinners, studio visits, etc.
• Communications Support: Support the promotion of MOWAA’s modern and contemporary programme, including developing articles, presentations, short films, and brochures

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field (desired)
• A minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience working
• Excellent written communication skills
• Familiarity with archival research methods and ability to navigate archival resources
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with stakeholders
• Highly organised, with a meticulous attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic cultural organization.
• Proficiency in English
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Terms and Conditions:

• Commitment: Full-time preferred, with possibility of part-time placement (minimum of 60% time commitment). 2 year contract, subject to 3 months’ probation and extension.
• Travel: Within Nigeria and occasional travel abroad. Work-related expenses for travel and accommodation will be covered by MOWAA, subject to prior approval
• Preferred Start date: Immediate

Compensation
Competitive fee to be determined based on experience

Title: Outreach & Education Coordinator

Location: Benin, Edo
Reporting Line: Director of the Pavilion & Head of Communications
Start Date: TBD, subject to 6-month probation period

Job Overview

• This role is part of the External Relations department with the focus of delivering a dynamic outreach programme of events for local artisans, artists and other creatives, schools, universities, adults, and families at MOWAA facilities and online, with plans to expand engagement into external venues. We are looking for a highly organised and enthusiastic Outreach & Education Coordinator to join our growing team.
• The successful candidate will coordinate the day-to-day running of the Outreach department, responding to all enquiries in a timely manner. Communicating with our Director of the Pavilion &/or Head of External Relations for programme designs and ensuring that the activities of the Outreach department are widely publicised.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaison with the educational community – State Ministries of Education, the public and private, Technical and Vocational Schools, Universities, and other related and relevant creative enterprises and organizations, within the Creative District area – establishing and maintaining relationships.
• Streamline queries for other types of engagement, e.g., proposals for projects and partnerships, volunteering and internship requests, exhibition proposals, etc. so that the Director of the Pavilion &/or Head of External Relations can identify and respond accordingly.
• With the Director of the Pavilion, create a strategy and programs that align with MOWAA outreach & educational vision and goals.
• Liaise with the other department, including Collection Manager and the heads of Research and Conservation, to access collections and archival materials needed for workshops and other events.
• Plan and deliver the programmes and outreach events.
• Design and facilitate program evaluation.
• Manage school bookings, queries and respond to requests for talks and workshops from universities, creative groups, families, and individuals.
• Prepare reports, correspondence, and recommendations for the education programs, its clients, and funders.
• Administer the department’s sub-contracts and budget by keeping track of expenditure, e.g., facilitator fees, equipment for the Outreach department, and ad hoc purchases, in collaboration with the Office Administrator and Finance Manager.
• Keep the Head of External Relations up to date with outreach activities to ensure the department’s work is publicised and shared on social media in a timely manner.
• Identify and instruct suitable volunteers for the Outreach Department
• Serve as an ambassador for MOWAA in communicating and furthering the mission and goals of the institution.
• Traveling locally as needed.
• Undertake other reasonable duties as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in any Arts and Social Science field.
• A declared interest in and enjoy working with/teaching young children is a must; minimum of two to three years of relevant experience in developing and delivering educational programs to children.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with internal and external educators, administrators of various levels of experience.
• Able to work with large number of children / parents / chaperones / teachers visiting the museum and within the community.
• Must be outgoing, energetic and enthusiastic
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evenings

Career Growth, Training & Development:

• MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post will be supported by global experts and institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates.
• This is an exciting role with opportunities for growth including training in workshop delivery and the development of skills essential for progressing within the heritage learning sector. By joining MOWAA team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career.
• Research MOWAA collections to identify new topics for workshops, pop-up exhibitions and events.
• Suggest potential engagement partners through research and networking.
• Undertake training with a view to delivering school workshops.
• Other training and development opportunities that may arise.

Title: Collections Manager & Conservator

Locations: Benin – Edo, Ibadan – Oyo, or Lagos
Job type: Multi-year contract

Key Responsibilities

• As Collections Manager and Conservator, you will be responsible for the care and management of a large and varied collection of fine art, historic objects, documents and photography, and coordinate collections management activity and resource planning for MOWAA.
• As a technical lead, you will lead on the planning and delivery of collections management operations across the museum, with an initial focus on the set up of collections management protocols before a focus on day-to-day collections care and access.
• As part of supporting the establishment of the Collections Facility, you will interface with museum practitioners, suppliers and private collection owners to ensure proper systems are in place to achieve MOWAA’s collection building and programming ambitions.
• You will be expected to lead on the introduction of new working practices, standards and a cohesive approach to collections management across the facility’s specialist functions. This will include the planning and delivery of conservation training programmes and workshops, which you will drive as the key liaison person with partnering institutions.
• Working closely with MOWAA’s curators and advisors, you will contribute to the development of MOWAA’s custody and care protocols as part of collection development. As the collection grows, you will facilitate access to collections, contribute to programme delivery, review process and procedure, and oversee Health and Safety compliance relating to collections’ access. This includes planning for the potential transfer and re-housing of collections in the future.

Your responsibilities are as follows:

• Oversee the design and fit out of the storage facilities at the Pavilion, liaising with suppliers, museum practitioners and the architects involved in the design and construction of the facility
• Develop MOWAA’s operational policies to enable a responsible, practical and sustainable approach for how physical objects our transferred, stored, recorded and cared for within the Pavilion
• Plan and manage large-scale collections moves and storage projects, loans programme and aspects of exhibitions activity
• Oversee day-to-day collections management operations, including object documentation and movement, security and maintenance of the stores.
• Liaise with the Technology lead, to ensure the structure and interface between our physical and digital collections management system address the relevant fields and are operationally aligned
• Contribute specialist knowledge to the Pavilion exhibition project team and subcontractors
• Work alongside the Director to plan and manage resources across the Collection Facility to establish priorities, and where relevant, commission and supervise external contractors
• Contribute to planning and delivery of the Pavilion’s learning and outreach programme, including access projects, giving talks to local groups, dealing with public enquires and promoting our collections work
• Contribute to the development of funding applications related to collections care and access
• Support the design and establishment of training programmes, with an initial focus on conservation and collections management
• Attend appropriate training and keep abreast of developments in collections management approaches

Terms and Conditions

• Rolling contract, subject to initial six-month probation and annual review
• Full time preferred. Part time arrangement possible, with a minimum time commitment of 50%
• Competitive fee to be determined based on experience, negotiable

Title: Graduate Programme for Field Archaeologist and Heritage Specialist

Location: Benin City, Edo
Job type: Multi-year contract

Background

• MOWAA is a new regional centre for heritage management, archaeology, material science and contemporary creativity in West Africa. Much of our research investigations are centered in the heart of Benin City, the capital of the pre-colonial Benin Empire and one of the most important archaeological sites in West Africa.
• We employ modern best practices and cutting-edge technology, including geophysics, geomatics, drone photography, and Lidar, applying developer archaeology principles in blended research and preservation projects.
• This innovative approach records and safeguards remnants of past civilizations during construction processes –  a groundbreaking practice in West Africa.
• From our base in Benin City, we will explore the wider cultural landscapes of the West Africa region, investigating the relationships between environment and human populations over time and creating digital records of ancient monuments and sites.
• We work with leading global institutions. Our partners include the British Museum, Cambridge University, Oxford University, Wessex Archaeology, the German Archaeological Institute, and the National Commission of Museums and Monuments in Nigeria. Our joint initiatives are intended to expand academic fields, foster new connections and approaches to surviving heritage, and engage communities locally and globally.

About the Graduate Programme

• The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is thrilled to launch its Graduate Programme for Field Archaeologists and Heritage Specialists.
• This two-year immersive programme offers a unique opportunity to join a dynamic team, engage in cutting-edge research using advanced technologies, and receive professional development training in Nigeria and beyond.
• Successful applicants will participate in exciting hands-on excavations, gain valuable field and lab experience, receive mentorship from esteemed advisors and specialists, and contribute to prestigious publications and seminars alongside renowned experts.
• Join MOWAA and embark on a thrilling journey of cutting-edge research and training in a vibrant institution that champions the progress of scholarship and professional practice in West African Art and Archaeology. Be at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of this fascinating field.

Requirements
We are seeking candidates with the following skill sets and knowledge:

• Field Archaeology: Proficiency in modern stratigraphic excavation and documentation, along with report writing.
• Finds Management & Analysis: Experience in processing, cataloguing, ordering, and analyzing excavated finds to develop a coherent, chronological typology based on form, fabric, and stratigraphic context. Preference for candidates with experience handling pottery.
• Geomatics: Familiarity with using digital surveying equipment to document the location of archaeological features.
• GIS: Competence in managing digital spatial data using ArcGIS and other software.
• Computer Graphics: Ability to manipulate digitized drawings and other graphical data to create illustrations for reports and publications.
• Photography: Proficient in the systematic use of digital photography for recording archaeological investigations, including the use of drones and the storage and manipulation of imagery (e.g. photogrammetry for 3D digital models).

General Requirements:

• Applicants who wish to pursue a placement with MOWAA on the Graduate Programme must:
• Have Degree-level qualifications (Masters preferred but not essential) in archeology, or in a related discipline, such as geophysics, geology, physics or environmental science
• Be fluent in English, written and spoken
• Be able to be employed in Nigeria, including having a work permit and/or citizenship to an ECOWAS country.
• Be able to commit to a minimum of two years to the programme including extended periods working at MOWAA’s selected sites
• Be able to travel within Nigeria and abroad, as required for research, training and presentations. An international passport and evidence of prior travel is not a requirement.

Deadline: 11th August, 2023.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their CV and 1-page Cover Letter to: careers@EMOWAA.com using “Graduate Programme Application” as the subject of the email.

Note

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
• MOWAA is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.
• Enquires should also be sent to the same email address above.