Exhibition Coordinator

Documentary Photography Project
Open Society Institute–New York

Application Deadline: October 7, 2011

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.

Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Our activities have grown to encompass the United States and more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Each foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities.

Through exhibits and grantmaking, the Documentary Photography Project explores how photography can shape public perception and effect positive social change. The Documentary Photography Project supports photographers whose work addresses social justice and human rights issues that coincide with the Open Society Foundations' mission.

Purpose of Position

Support staff of Documentary Photography Project to develop and implement programs. Work is carried out independently/under general supervision.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Administrative

• Provide administrative support for the Documentary Photography Project;
• Respond to general inquiries from the public;
• Negotiate contracts and serve as liaison with photographers, vendors and consultants concerning contracts and payments;
• Update website content and distributes program information;
• Coordinate logistics and travel for special events/forums;
• Review potential programs, recommend strategies, promote DPP programs and strategies, attend meetings, handle correspondence and create presentations;
• Research new co-funding and partnership opportunities.

Moving Walls

• Oversee production, installation and tour of Moving Walls exhibit and serve as the main point person for the exhibit;
• Conduct outreach and serve as a resource to potential applicants, process applications; evaluate, recommend work, plan and participate in selection meetings;
• Hire and oversee art handler and installation installer(s) and coordinates logistics;
• Ensure that exhibit runs smoothly and key artists are displayed in accordance with OSI programs and mandates;
• Maintain exhibition archives;
• Connect exhibit content to relevant OSI programs.

Grants

• Serve as a resource to potential applicants and processes grant applications;
• Prepare material for Selection Committee meeting;
• Review and recommend proposals and attend selection meetings;
• Conduct site visits as directed;
• Perform other duties as assigned;
• Travel may be required.

The Open Society Foundations may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university and three to five years of relevant experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with photographic exhibits is helpful, particularly with organizations who deal in social justice issues.

Skills Required

• Proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment; to troubleshoot and follow projects through to completion, consistently on schedule, without loss of attention to detail and budget;
• Excellent written, verbal, organizational, analytical and interpersonal skills;
• Excellent computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Office and experience with internet research;
• Excellent listening and communication skills with sensitivity to cultural communication differences;
• Show discretion and ability to handle confidential issues;
• High level of self-motivation and at ease working independently when necessary;
• Poised and works well under pressure, attentive to detail;
• Flexibility and willingness to work simultaneously on a wide range of tasks and projects and ability to prioritize tasks;
• Pleasant, diplomatic manner and disposition in interacting with senior management, co-workers and the general public.

Program Specific Requirements

• Experience in a professional office setting in one of the following fields is required: documentary photography, photo editing, exhibition coordination/management, media/media development and/or arts administration;
• Experience in project management;
• Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop and Bridge.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting with a low level of noise. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Start Date

November 2011

Compensation

Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

To Apply

Please email resume and cover letter with salary requirements before October 7, 2011, to: humanresources@sorosny.org. Include job code in subject line: EC-DPP

OR

Open Society Foundations
Human Resources – Code EC-DPP
400 West 59th Street
New York, New York 10019

FAX: 646.557.2672

No phone calls, please. The Open Society Foundations are an Equal Opportunity Employer.