Job Overview

The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) 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. A critical part of our mission is to conserve and make accessible a collection of art and antiquities for the education, enjoyment and wellbeing of visitors locally and from around the... world – connecting West Africa’s ancient heritage to its thriving contemporary arts and culture.

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with a passion for ensuring seamless front office and administrative operations in a dynamic cultural environment. The Admin Officer will be responsible for managing the front desk, coordinating visitor relations, providing executive support, and overseeing general administrative functions to ensure the museum’s smooth daily operations. This position requires strong organizational skills, professionalism, and excellent interpersonal abilities to engage effectively with guests, staff, and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Front Office Management


Serve as the first point of contact for visitors, ensuring a warm and professional reception.
Manage the front desk, including handling phone calls, emails, and inquiries.
Maintain visitor logs and ensure proper check-in and security procedures.


Guest & Visitor Relations


Provide information about museum exhibitions, events, and facilities.
Assist with visitor inquiries and ensure a positive guest experience.
Coordinate guided tours, VIP visits, and special guest arrangements.


Executive Support


Provide administrative assistance to senior management, including scheduling meetings and managing calendars.
Prepare reports, presentations, and correspondence as required.


General Administrative Support


Maintain office supplies inventory and ensure the smooth running of administrative processes.
Assist with document management, filing, and record-keeping.
Coordinate office maintenance, liaising with vendors and service providers.
Support internal communications and assist in organizing museum events and meetings.


Key Qualifications


A bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Business Administration, Office Management, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in administrative or front office roles, preferably in a cultural institution, hospitality, or corporate setting.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a professional and welcoming demeanor.
Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with keen attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
Customer service-oriented mindset with problem-solving skills.
Familiarity with museum operations or the arts and culture sector is an advantage.


Terms and Conditions


Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
Contract Duration: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials
Who Can Apply: We strongly encourage applications from candidates based in Benin City, Nigeria. more

Overview:

The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is pleased to announce openings for its 2025 Internship Programme. Over six months, we will be offering structured, hands-on experience for early-career professionals and recent graduates. MOWAA is accepting applications for internships in four areas: Art Conservation, Exhibition Coordination, Development, and Education & Public... Practice. 

Interns will receive a monthly stipend and are expected to commit 6-month to the placement. 

Internship Openings:  


The Art Conservation Internship provides an opportunity to work alongside conservation specialists, gaining hands-on experience in the preservation and conservation treatment of objects in MOWAA’s collections. Interns will assist with condition assessments, preventive conservation measures, and research on materials and techniques. 
The Exhibition Coordination Internship offers a unique opportunity to develop practical skills in organising and delivering museum exhibitions. This internship provides valuable insight into the logistics, research, and creative processes involved in producing engaging and thought-provoking exhibitions. 
The Development Internship at MOWAA offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in administrative tasks related to strategic fundraising efforts that help drive the museum’s mission. This internship is ideal for individuals looking to develop skills in non-profit development, arts administration, and cultural philanthropy. 
The Education & Public Practice Internship offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in developing and delivering educational programs, public events, and outreach initiatives that make art and culture more inclusive and engaging for diverse audiences. 


Requirements  

The internship is open to nationals from any West African country currently residing in Nigeria. However, concessions may be made in exceptional cases. 


Degree or certificate from a reputable institution globally 
Recent graduates (0–3 years post-graduation) 
Early career professionals (less than 3 years' experience) 
NYSC members with backgrounds in social science, art and humanities or with exceptional CVs in other fields 


Benefits 


Monthly stipend & data allowance 
Training, mentorship & career development 
Hands-on experience in real-world scenarios guided by industry professionals 
Exclusive alumni network  
Career advice & personalised recommendation letter more

Job Overview

The Heritage Services Lead will play a key role in expanding MOWAA’s heritage research and conservation initiatives, with a focus on business development, project management, and strategic partnerships. As part of this, the role will include short-term support in aspects of lab coordination and development until a dedicated specialist is hired. However, the primary focus remains on... heritage research and conservation project oversight, capacity building, and commercial service development.

The successful candidate will work closely with advisory partners and stakeholders to ensure alignment with MOWAA’s broader institutional goals while strengthening MOWAA’s presence in the global heritage sector.

Key Responsibilities

Heritage Research & Conservation Project Management


Manage heritage research and conservation projects beyond MOWAA’s Archaeology project, ensuring alignment with broader heritage initiatives.
Support the development of technical reports, conservation strategies, and research methodologies.
Lead engagement with international research partners, universities, and institutions to strengthen MOWAA’s position in the sector.


Business Development & Strategic Planning


Identify funding opportunities and develop proposals for heritage conservation and research projects.
Establish and expand MOWAA’s commercial service offerings in heritage conservation and research.
Oversee the development of MOWAA’s professional training courses as relate to field archaeology, heritage science, and preservation practice, including a proposed annual field school
Drive strategic partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and heritage institutions.


Capacity Building &Team Supervision


Develop and lead training programs to enhance the skills of conservation and heritage research teams.
Mentor and supervise junior heritage researchers and conservation specialists.
Facilitate international partnerships and exchange programs to strengthen local expertise in conservation and research.


Project Oversight & Professional Networks


Build and maintain a strong network of professionals and institutions within the heritage conservation and research community.
Represent MOWAA at conferences, workshops, and industry events to promote heritage initiatives.
Ensure timely project execution, adherence to budgets, and high-quality deliverables.


Key Qualifications


Advanced degree in Heritage Conservation, Archaeology, Material Science, or a related field.
Minimum 7 years of experience in heritage research, conservation, or lab management.
Demonstrated experience in establishing and managing conservation laboratories.
Strong expertise in project management within heritage research and conservation.
Experience in business development, grant writing, and proposal development.
Prior experience in capacity building and team leadership.
Familiarity with scientific conservation methods, heritage documentation techniques, and ethical considerations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop high- quality reports and presentations.


Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Interim Director of Heritage Management
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
Contract Duration: Two years, Renewable
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials more

Job Overview

As part of our commitment to advancing conservation standards in West Africa, we are seeking an experienced conservator to join our Collections department. Reporting to the Head of Collections, the Senior Conservator will be responsible for the preventive care of art and artifacts in the collection, as well as providing support for supervised restoration work.

The Senior... Conservator is expected to stay informed about advancements in the conservation field and actively engage with the professional community. This role will also provide expert support for acquisitions, loans, exhibitions, and other key activities essential to the Museum's operations, fostering a strong culture of collaboration with colleagues in Curatorial, Outreach & Learning, and Facility Management.

Key Responsibilities


Carry out research and apply standard conservation techniques to treat objects in MOWAA’s collections.
Conduct thorough assessments and documentation of objects to monitor their condition and identify signs of deterioration.
Prepare detailed written treatment proposals, condition reports, and treatment reports, including comprehensive photographic documentation.
Work closely with colleagues to plan and execute complex conservation treatments.
Partner with the Collections Management team to maintain accurate records of object locations and conditions.
Support the daily operations and upkeep of the conservation laboratory and collections management facilities.
Provide expert guidance on object acquisition, loans, exhibitions, installations, deinstallations, and deaccessioning processes.
Collaborate with curators and the exhibition team throughout the object mounting and exhibition installation process.
Design and produce custom storage solutions, such as specialized boxes, to protect and preserve objects in the collection.
Stay informed about the latest conservation practices, theories, and advancements in equipment and technology.
Develop and deliver professional training programs for staff and heritage professionals within the West African ecosystem.
Present conservation projects at conferences and contribute to academic publications to advance the field.
Conduct scientific conservation research in partnership with colleagues at the MOWAA Institute.


Key Qualifications


A bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Conservation or a related field, with a specialization in object conservation, from a recognized training institution.
A minimum of 6 - 8 years of relevant experience in a recognized heritage institution or equivalent technical expertise and education, with a preference for candidates with experience working with historic collections.
Proven track record of planned and successfully completed conservation treatments.
Active membership in a professional conservation organization.
Familiarity with a diverse range of West African objects, including ethnographic, historical, archaeological, and contemporary art.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a dynamic cultural organization.
Strong focus on accuracy and critical thinking.
Effective time management, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks under strict deadlines.
Demonstrated capacity to handle multiple responsibilities and communicate effectively with team members.
Strong aptitude for research.


Career Growth, Training & Development

MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post offers exposure and hands-on experience on ways of working global institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates. By joining our team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career.

Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Head of Collections 
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria/ Flexible
Contract Duration: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials more

Job Overview

As part of our commitment to building a world-class collection of exemplary West African art and advancing museum development and conservation practices across the region, MOWAA is seeking an experienced Archivist and Collections Manager to shape and drive its archival and collections strategy for historic works. Reporting to the Head of Collections, the Archivist and Collections... Manager will play a key role in developing and promoting MOWAA’s growing collections while supporting the execution of critical archival and collections initiatives.

The Archivist & Collections Manager is expected to remain informed about advancements in the field and actively engage with the professional community. This role will provide expertise in facilitating access to collections, contributing to program delivery, reviewing processes and procedures, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards related to collections access.

Key Responsibilities


Support the care and preservation of MOWAA’s collections and assets.
Catalogue and document archives and collections owned and/or managed by MOWAA.
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, policies, and documentation related to archives and collections management.
Maintain accurate records of all documentation related to objects within the collection, including copyrights, installations, accessions, deaccessions, condition reports, insurance certificates, loan agreements, and deeds of gift.
Manage guest access to archives and respond to inquiries.
Research and address copyright issues.
Oversee database maintenance, internal and external object transfers, and ensure accurate object location records.
Supervise and train staff and partner institutions on archival and collections management practices
Collaborate with other staff members including curators, exhibition designers, art handlers and conservators to coordinate and schedule exhibitions, installation, and collection rotations. 
Monitor and communicate budgets related to the management of the database and physical archives to the appropriate authority in a timely manner.
Collaborate with the Learning and Outreach Department to produce educational materials from MOWAA’s collections.


Key Qualifications


A bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Library and Information Studies, Collections Management, Archival Studies, Museum Studies, Computer studies or related field.
A minimum of 6 - 8 years’ relevant work experience.
Proficiency in collections management system, museum practice, database applications, and Microsoft Office Package suite (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Familiarity with archival research methods and the ability to navigate archival resources.
Experience in setting up and managing digital databases/inventory.
Proficiency in handling physical spaces (i.e. library, archives, gallery store, etc).
Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with team members and stakeholders.
Highly organized with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all tasks.
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic cultural organization.
Fluency in English, both written and spoken.


Career Growth, Training & Development

MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post offers exposure and hands-on experience on ways of working global institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates. By joining our team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career.

Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Head of Collections 
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria/ Flexible
Contract Duration: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials more

Job Overview

The Grants & Special Projects Account Manager is responsible for the financial administration and reporting of grants and special projects. This role involves managing the full grant lifecycle, from pre-award budget development to post-award financial reporting and compliance. The Account Manager ensures accurate financial tracking, adherence to funder requirements, and provides... insightful financial analysis to support project success. This role often collaborates closely with program staff, development teams, and external funders.

Key Responsibilities


Pre-Award: 


Develop and review grant budgets in collaboration with program staff, ensuring alignment with project objectives and funder guidelines.
Assist in the preparation of grant proposals and other funding applications, providing financial information and documentation as needed.
Research and analyze potential funding sources, identifying grant opportunities that align with the organization's mission and strategic goals.


Post-Award: 

Manage the financial administration of existing and newly awarded grants and special projects, ensuring compliance with all funder regulations and internal policies.
Establish and maintain accurate accounting records for each grant, tracking expenditures, revenues, and budget variances.
Prepare timely and accurate financial reports for funders, including progress reports, financial statements, and budget vs. actual analyses.
Monitor grant spending and provide regular updates to program staff and management on the financial status of projects.
Conduct regular budget vs. actual analysis, identify potential overspending or underspending, and recommend corrective actions.
Process grant-related invoices, payments, and reimbursements.
Manage sub-recipient agreements and monitor their financial performance.
Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping for all grant-related activities.
Conduct periodic audits of grant files to ensure compliance and accuracy.


Compliance & Reporting: 

Stay up-to-date on all applicable grant regulations and compliance requirements (e.g., federal regulations, foundation guidelines).
Ensure that all grant-related activities are conducted in accordance with these regulations.
Collaborate with internal and external auditors as needed.
Develop and implement internal controls to safeguard grant funds and ensure compliance.


Relationship Management: 

Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, program staff, and other stakeholders.
Communicate effectively with funders regarding grant financial performance and compliance matters.
Provide training and support to program staff on grant financial management and compliance requirements.


Special Projects: 

Manage the financial aspects of special projects as assigned, including budget development, tracking, and reporting.
Collaborate with project managers to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.


Other Duties: 

Perform other related duties as assigned.




Key Qualifications


Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Master's degree or ACA preferred.   
5 years of experience in grant accounting or non-profit financial management.
Strong understanding of grant accounting principles and funder reporting requirements.
Proficiency in using accounting software (e.g., Resource Manager, Sage) and Microsoft Excel (advanced level).
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.   
Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.


Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)


Accuracy and timeliness of grant financial reports.
Compliance with funder regulations and internal policies.
Effectiveness of grant budget management and cost control.
Quality of communication and relationships with funders and stakeholders.
Successful completion of special projects within budget and timeline.


Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Finance Director
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
Contract Type: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials


Career Growth, Training & Development 

MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post offers exposure and hands-on experience on ways of working global institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates. By joining our team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career. more

Job Overview


We seek a detail-oriented professional passionate about ensuring smooth operational functions within a dynamic cultural environment.
The Head of Operations will oversee the efficient management of the museum’s facilities, utilities, and security while also supporting event logistics and travel coordination. 
This role is essential to ensure the seamless functioning of the... museum’s physical and operational infrastructure, and to maintain a safe, efficient, and well-managed environment for staff, visitors, and collections.


Key Responsibilities

Facilities & Utilities Management:


Oversee the maintenance and functionality of museum buildings, conservation labs, exhibition spaces, and office areas.
Manage utility services, including electricity, water, and HVAC systems, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
Establish and oversee maintenance protocols with MEP suppliers, ensuring all servicing equipment is up to date.
Coordinate with the collections management team to regulate climatic controls and generate facility reports in adherence to object care regimes and loan agreements.
Ensure compliance with safety, health, and operational standards.


Security, Safety & Risk Management:


Supervise security teams and implement protocols to protect assets, staff, and visitors.
Develop emergency preparedness plans, including evacuation and disaster response procedures.
Conduct risk assessments and ensure adherence to regulatory compliance.
Review and select appropriate building insurance providers to ensure adequate coverage for facilities and assets.


Events & Travel Support:


Oversee the logistics for exhibitions, conferences, artist residencies, and public programs, working with the Travel & Logistics Manager, project leads and external vendors
Ensure venue readiness, vendor coordination, and on-site operational support.
Oversee domestic and international travel arrangements for staff, researchers, and visiting guests.
Oversee the travel and events management team, ensuring coordination, early risk identification and management, troubleshooting and staff development


Vendor & Contractor Management:


Manage contracts and relationships with service providers, including facility maintenance, cleaning, and security firms.
Negotiate service agreements to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
Monitor contractor performance and enforce institutional standards.


Compliance, Budget Oversight & Staff Training:


Ensure all operations align with regulatory and legal requirements.
Manage operational budgets, optimize resource allocation, and improve cost efficiency.
Oversee procurement processes and asset management.
Develop and enforce building management standards and procedures, including training staff on best practices, with support from the HR team.


Key Qualifications


A Bachelor’s or postgraduate Degree in Engineering, Facility Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in facility management and/or operations, preferably within a cultural institution, university, corporate services or hospitality sector.
Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with experience managing teams and external vendors.
Good knowledge of health, safety, and security protocols.
Excellent vendor negotiation and contractor management skills.
Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
Ability to work collaboratively across departments and engage with diverse stakeholders.


Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Executive Director
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
Contract Type: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials


Career Growth, Training & Development 

MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post offers exposure and hands-on experience on ways of working global institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates. By joining our team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career. more