Strategic Planning Co-ordinator

Job Description

About Us

The Natural History Museum is both a world-leading science research centre and the most visited natural history museum in Europe. With a vision of a future in which both people and the planet thrive, it is uniquely positioned to be a powerful champion for balancing humanity’s needs with those of the natural world.

It is custodian of one of the world’s most important scientific collections comprising over 80 million objects. The scale of this collection enables researchers from all over the world to document how species have and continue to respond to environmental changes - which is vital in helping predict what might happen in the future and informing future policies and plans to help the planet.

We are at a pivotal moment in our history as we launch a new strategy setting out our role as the natural world faces increasing threats. Building on our world-leading collection, global reputation for science and as one of the world’s leading visitor attractions, the NHM has ambitious plans leading up to the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Waterhouse Building in 2031, making this a truly exciting time to be part of the NHM team.

About the role

The Engagement Group is responsible for the development and delivery of the Museum's public offer and commercial income at South Kensington, NHM Tring, nationally, internationally, and digitally. As part of the Group’s Resources and Planning team, the Strategic Planning Co-ordinator will play a key supporting role to the Executive Director, Engagement and Head of Resources and Planning at an exciting time of change with transformational projects across all areas of the Museum.

You will be pivotal in helping to deliver the smooth operation of key planning functions as well as contribute to big picture thinking and communications, playing a key part in ensuring that Engagement’s work aligns closely with, and maximises translation of, the strategic aims set out in the Museum’s new Vision and Strategy.

The role will be responsible for managing the detailed planning cycle and other key governance meetings that help Engagement to plan its work, as well as researching and developing initiatives that will help to improve the impact and communication of this work. As such it will require an eye for detail as well as a flair for thinking strategically and taking the initiative to identify and nurture new activities that will support future plans. This will also ensure that the Engagement Leadership Team has clear oversight and connectivity with cross-museum projects.

About you

You have in depth experience in a business planning environment, with the ability to identify dependencies and opportunities across different areas.

You have excellent strategic awareness, research and analytical skills, able to see the big picture and adopt a structured approach to problem solving. This is teamed with excellent writing and presentation skills, with the ability to produce succinct and timely communications. Overall, you are extremely well organised and an excellent project manager who is well prepared well ahead of time. Experience co-ordinating complex initiatives will be advantageous.

To enable you to do your best in this role, you are highly collaborative and an excellent communicator.

Closing date: Monday 4 ^th October

Interviews expected: Tuesday 12 ^th October

What we offer

• 27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent)
• Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across the country, such as the British Museum, V&A, National Gallery, Royal Academy and Tate
• Affordable membership to the Civil Service Sports Council which offers a range of benefits including a free digital Tastecard, discounted cinema tickets and corporate membership of English Heritage sites (including Dover Castle and Stonehenge). For more details, visit https://www.cssc.co.uk
• Membership to our Sports and Social Association (for a small fee), which includes access to our in-house gym and clubs such as football, softball, table tennis and tennis and classes in Middle Eastern dance, yoga and Tai Chi
• Staff discounts at a range of local businesses and services
• Staff discount at our Museum shops and cafes
• Season ticket, bicycle and rental loans
• Life insurance
• Eye care vouchers
• Professional development opportunities - We are committed to the professional development of our staff and offer a range of courses to ensure they reach their potential.