Collections Manager

Collections Manager – National Trust of Australia (NSW)
• Location: Sydney, NSW
• Job Type: Full-time
• Category: Professional
• Sectors: Arts, Culture, Heritage
• Reports to: Head of Collections and Curatorial
Overview
The National Trust (NSW) is the largest community based, not-for-profit conservation organisation in Australia, operating for more than 75 years. Our vision is to bring the heritage of New South Wales to life for future generations. One of the ways we achieve this is by conserving and protecting the built, cultural and natural heritage under our care.

About the role
The National Trust is seeking an experienced Collections Manager to provide strategic advice, management and training in relation to the care and conservation of the Trust’s extensive Collection, held throughout 28 properties across the State.

While this is definitely a hands-on role, you will also be overseeing the work of conservators, staff and volunteers, thereby ensuring all our Collection items are handled, maintained, stored and conserved correctly. You will also be required to coordinate Preservation Needs Assessments and other grant-funded opportunities as appropriate, including leading volunteer research projects.

About you
This role will require someone with not only an excellent knowledge of Collections management but also exceptional people skills, an eye for detail and an ability to multitask across numerous projects and diverse locations.
You will also have:
• Extensive experience in managing and caring for a diverse collection of objects, textiles, artwork and furniture, having worked in a similar role, preferably within the heritage sector, with a sound understanding of conservation techniques.
• Strong inter-personal skills, a proven ability to build strong relationships and the ability to communicate and engage with all levels of the organisation, especially volunteers.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with an excellent attention to detail and ability to find solutions within budget.
• Class C driver’s license and a willingness to travel to the various regional properties
• Five to 10 years’ experience in a similar role

Although the role will be based in our headquarters at Observatory Hill, it will require travel to our various properties across NSW. With over 20 properties open to the public, and a number of properties held under other various arrangements including private leases, this is a truly unique opportunity for the right person to play a central role in helping to ensure the ongoing maintenance, care and conservation of our unique Collection.

If you have a passion for working on some of the state’s most important heritage places
and want to use your skills in a job that makes a difference, this is the role for you.
We offer a flexible work environment and a great workplace culture that is wholly dedicated to the heritage of NSW.

You must have the right to live and work in Australia to apply for this job.
For a full position description or any enquiries call: 02 9258 0159 or email hr@nationaltrust.com.au. To apply, submit your CV together with a covering letter addressing the key accountabilities to: hr@nationaltrust.com.au

While the closing date is 14 June 2026, don’t delay as we will interview as suitable candidates apply.