Head of Science Gateway

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centres for scientific research. With a mission to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study fundamental particles. CERN's commitment to diversity and inclusion is integral to its mission, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Job Overview:
The Head of Science Gateway will play a pivotal role in shaping the future vision and development of the Science Gateway, a unique visitor-facing venue that has already welcomed over 750,000 visitors from 179 countries in its first two years. This position requires strategic direction and operational leadership to ensure that the facilities, activities, and visitor experiences align with CERN's mission of sharing knowledge and inspiring curiosity about science and innovation. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering high-quality exhibitions, educational programmes, and events, while also driving the long-term evolution of the campus as a landmark destination for science engagement. This role involves close collaboration with internal stakeholders and partners to develop a multi-year strategic plan, manage budgets, and oversee the implementation of exhibitions and educational programmes, ensuring alignment with CERN's education and outreach objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Science Gateway include developing a long-term vision for the Science Gateway and associated campus, co-developing a multi-year strategic plan, and establishing annual priorities with internal stakeholders. The role involves planning and coordinating the implementation of both permanent and temporary exhibitions and educational programmes, ensuring high-quality visitor services, and overseeing day-to-day campus operations. The Head will lead and support the campus operations team, manage procurement and service contracts, and work closely with internal teams and external partners on exhibition updates and event planning. Additionally, the role includes contributing to fundraising efforts and ensuring the visibility and reputation of the Science Gateway Campus, representing it to external stakeholders as the main point of contact and ambassador.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in fields such as Management, Science Communication, Cultural Management, Museum Studies, Education, Public Administration, or Business Management. Training or certification in leadership, project management, cultural or museum operations, public engagement, or facility management is considered an asset. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading complex visitor-facing, cultural, scientific, or public engagement facilities, managing multidisciplinary teams, and developing strategies in partnership with diverse stakeholders. Proven experience in budget management, contract management, and overseeing operations is essential.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field is required for this position. Candidates with additional training or certification in leadership, project management, cultural or museum operations, public engagement, or facility management will have an advantage. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in management principles, science communication, or related disciplines that support the role's responsibilities.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in leading visitor-facing cultural, scientific, or public engagement facilities. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams and fostering a collaborative working environment. Experience in developing and delivering strategies in partnership with educational, cultural, or scientific institutions is crucial, as is experience in managing budgets, contracts, and external service providers. The role also demands extensive experience in overseeing operations, including safety, maintenance, visitor services, and event delivery.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, with a commitment to learn French being an important asset. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the role is fully onsite. The position involves participation in regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays, and requires a valid driving licence. The job grade is classified as grade 8, and the reference for this position is SCE-2025-266-LD. CERN offers a competitive salary that is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.