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What does a Collection Manager do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A collection manager is responsible for the care and management of a collection of items. This can include art, books, documents, and other objects. The collection manager may be responsible for acquiring new items for the collection, as well as preserving and cataloging existing items.

Collection Manager job duties include:

  • Oversee the daily operations of the Collections Department
  • Supervise a team of Collections Specialists
  • Ensure that all collections activities are carried out in accordance with company policies and procedures
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers
  • Negotiate payment arrangements with customers
  • Handle customer inquiries and complaints in a professional manner
  • Monitor departmental KPIs and take appropriate action to ensure targets are met
  • Prepare monthly reports for senior management
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives

Collection Manager Job Requirements

A collection manager is responsible for the care and preservation of a museum's artifacts. They develop and oversee policies and procedures for the handling, storage, and exhibition of collections. A bachelor's degree in museum studies or a related field is required, and many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree. Certification from the American Association of Museums is also beneficial. Collection managers typically have several years of experience working in a museum setting.

Collection Manager Skills

  • Collection Management
  • Metadata
  • Data Entry
  • Research
  • Microsoft Office
  • Excel
  • Access
  • SQL
  • ILS Systems
  • OCLC Connexion
  • MARC21

Related: Top Collection Manager Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Collection Manager

A collection manager is responsible for the care and management of a collection of artifacts or objects. The position requires knowledge of museum collections management practices, as well as an understanding of the history and value of the objects in the collection. Collection managers work with curators and other museum staff to develop and implement policies and procedures for the acquisition, cataloging, storage, preservation, and exhibition of the objects in their care. They also develop and oversee budgets for their collections, and prepare reports on the condition of the objects and the progress of conservation efforts.

To become a collection manager, one should first earn a bachelor’s degree in museum studies or a related field. Many collection managers also have a master’s degree in museum studies or a related field. Coursework in art history, archaeology, anthropology, or another humanities discipline is also helpful. Collection managers must have excellent organizational skills and be able to work well under pressure. They must also be able to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, donors, and the general public.

Related: Collection Manager Resume Example

Related: Collection Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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