Project Curator - Common Threads

Job Summary Archives: Wigan & Leigh are looking to recruit a part-time freelance Project Curator to work alongside the in-house team to manage and deliver Common Threads - a new NLHF funded, textile heritage themed engagement project from October 2026 - March 2028. Deadline for applications is 4th October 2026. Job Description The Project Curator will work alongside the Archives: Wigan & Leigh team to manage and deliver the Common Threads project. You will take a lead role in project management, content development…

Job Summary

Archives: Wigan & Leigh are looking to recruit a part-time freelance Project Curator to work alongside the in-house team to manage and deliver Common Threads – a new NLHF funded, textile heritage themed engagement project from October 2026 – March 2028. Deadline for applications is 4th October 2026.

Job Description

The Project Curator will work alongside the Archives: Wigan & Leigh team to manage and deliver the Common Threads project. You will take a lead role in project management, content development and delivery, ensuring that key outputs are delivered to time, budget and to a high quality. This will involve delivering and managing key project documents including a project plan, risk register and programme. The role will provide additional support to the in-house project team across key project strands which include: A new exhibition at Leigh Town Hall New outdoor display boards and programme for touring to community locations A talks and workshop programme A Digital art commission A photographic commission mapping fashion tastes and trends across the Borough A short-run exhibition at Spinners Mill showcasing the art commission and new photo archive

More detail can be found in the project brief.

Job Requirements

We are seeking individuals with a proven track record in delivering similar contracts. Essential: Strong experience and substantial track record of project management in the culture and/ or heritage sector.

Demonstrable experience of creating and monitoring a Project Plan.

Experience of working on National Lottery Heritage Fund projects.

Experience of successfully developing and delivering new exhibitions. Experience of partnership working and developing schemes in collaboration with external organisations. Experience of successfully developing and delivering audience development projects that engage new audiences and increase venue visitor figures.

Job Responsibilities

Working with team to develop the Common Threads content in the Leigh Town Hall exhibition space. Recruitment and management of a socially engaged artist to create a digital art commission Support recruitment and management of a socially engaged photographer to document fashion trends in Wigan Recruit an artist facilitator to work with two youth groups to capture their response to new photographs Support development of display showcasing digital commission and new photo archive. Lead on design, production and installation of freestanding touring display boards. Delivery of the Project Plan, ensuring it aligns with project objectives and timelines. Management of Project Risk Register Ensuring effective communication and collaboration amongst the project team Contribution to project process evaluation by minuting key decisions, recording learnings, monitoring deliverables and organising end of project review with full project team.