Opportunities
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust is a non-profit, public trust that was established in 1982 with the objectives of furthering the fields of Architecture, the Fine Arts and Ecological and Environmental Studies. We offer an exciting, inclusive work environment for enthusiastic, organised and proactive individuals who are eager to take part in the Trust’s mission, responding to new ideas and initiatives with insight and intelligence.
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued. As an employer we foster an inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.
At the Geoffrey Bawa Trust, we value all types of experience. For us, a successful candidate has many of the qualities listed in our job postings, and the desire and capacity to learn the rest on the job. So if much, but not all, of a job posting describes you, then we welcome your application.
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust is a non-profit, public trust that was established in 1982 with the objectives of furthering the fields of Architecture, the Fine Arts and Ecological and Environmental Studies. We offer an exciting, inclusive work environment for enthusiastic, organised and proactive individuals who are eager to take part in the Trust’s mission, responding to new ideas and initiatives with insight and intelligence.
The role of Production Manager is a full time position with a minimum of two year time commitment. Role will commence as soon as a suitable candidate is found.
Responsibilities of the role include:
Lead the exhibition design and production process through construction and installation, creating construction documents and overseeing in-house and contracted building crews and fabricators to meet exhibition schedules on time and within budget.
Employ a variety of visualization techniques (drawing, 3-D rendering, model making) to develop and communicate design concepts, and works collaboratively with curators and artists.
Coordinate the design and execution of all aspects of programme-related exhibitions, installations, and events, including gallery architecture, layout of objects, exhibition furniture, display cases, and media environments in collaboration with relevant Curators.
Devise creative solutions for the responsible display of art and creates exhibitions that consider and engage the visitor.
Oversee and maintain terms and conditions of contracts and agreements during design, installation and display of all agreements and contracts during fabrication, installation, transportation, publication, and other aspects of exhibitions and installation.
Work with the Trust Curator and Programme Manager in ensuring insurance conditions are maintained as well as overall maintenance of Occupational Health and Safety Standards during all aspects of the Program.
Administers and manages touring exhibitions, co-organized exhibitions, content licensing, and other collaborations where relevant.
Provides strategic analysis and planning and design documentation as needed.
Supervision of seasonal interns as required.
Assist with Conservation and Restoration of premises and collections as needed.
Assist with general curatorial duties as needed.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Product Design, Interior Design and previous experience required.
Proficiency in Autocad, 3D modeling software and adobe suite programmes.
Proficiency in local languages (English, Sinhala and/or Tamil) required.
An interest or background in architectural or object conservation will be an added advantage.
Sensitivity to design principles of Geoffrey Bawa and knowledge of local building techniques and materials required.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong attention to detail and effective communication skills to collaborate with suppliers, vendors, and team members.
Ability to work methodically to meet tight deadlines.
Physical fitness and stamina to handle the physical demands of the role, including travel to and from Lunuganga, light lifting and carrying of art supplies and equipment.
Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter summarising your interest in the position and providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in this brief
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Two references, including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single .pdf format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com
This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).
Production Manager
The Programme Coordinator will coordinate and manage the execution of all Geoffrey Bawa Trust and Lunuganga Trust programmes, projects, and events including publications. The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for tracking and managing the budget and schedule of the aforesaid programmes, projects, and events. Salary and role is commensurate with work experience. A minimum of 1 year commitment to the position is required on a full time basis.
Responsibilities of the role include:
Allocating related coordination tasks to the core team or securing other freelance contractors as required and permissible by the budget and Trust policies (to be decided in conjunction with the Trust Curators).
Organising and conducting training sessions, events and workshops, including booking venues and other logistics, preparing training materials, preparing attendance sheets and agendas, coordinating meals and travel for participants and staff, preparing and disseminating partner, team and audience feedback forms, preparing event reports in collaboration with the Public Engagement Coordinator.
Being responsible for all project budgets from start to finish in collaboration with project leaders.
Obtaining and coordinating with prospective and confirmed artists all technical and presentation requirements for all events, and developing overall programme schedules, artist itineraries, and individual operational project plans to deliver events within allocated budgets.
Managing all aspects of confirmed artist travel and accommodation, visa requirements, local transportation, workshops and meetings, and residency needs in collaboration with the Trust’s in-house Registrar and General Operations Manager (or equivalent) and outsourced Property Managers.
Managing volunteers, docents, and contractual staff for events providing catering, janitorial, security, documentary and other relevant services.
Working with the Production Manager, Registrar, and Public Engagement Coordinator to ensure all technical and logistical requirements of all projects and venues are met, including: production materials and equipment, permits and permissions, bump- in/out schedules, shipping and transportation, OH&S and risk management plans, and ensure all venues and site requirements are confirmed.
Preparing and record keeping for all programme-related contracts and documents.
Communicate essential contract-related information to all relevant personnel.
Working with the Design and Communications department and Public Engagement Coordinator to design and disseminate all publicity and promotional material for public events and programmes.
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate keen interest in the fields of architecture, art, design and project management. Suitable candidates for this position must have excellent writing and oral communication skills in English, and preferably in at least one other language, should possess exceptional networking abilities, people skills, communication skills and time management skills. Demonstrated ability to manage challenges and opportunities in unconventional, creative, and mission-focused manner and a conscientious, responsible work ethic is necessary. Must be able to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in project management or a related field OR 2 years of equivalent work experience will be considered.
Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter summarising your interest in the position and providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in this brief
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Two references, including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single .pdf format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com
Please include the role you are applying for in the title of the email.
This position will remain vacant until it is filled.
This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).
Programme Coordinator
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Retail Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of our online and in-store design stores. The ideal candidate will have experience as a store manager, be passionate about design, possess strong leadership skills, and have a proven track record of managing retail operations effectively using knowledge of diverse business subjects such as sales, marketing, production, visual merchandising.
Responsibilities:
Manage all aspects of retail operations, including sales, inventory management, and customer service, to ensure an exceptional shopping experience for customers.
Develop and implement strategies to optimize sales performance and achieve revenue targets.
Maintain a thorough understanding of our product offerings and brand ethos to effectively communicate with customers and drive sales.
Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stocking merchandise to ensure adequate supply levels at store locations (in Colombo and Lunuganga).
Coordinate and arrange shipments of merchandise overseas, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with import/export regulations.
Monitor and analyze sales trends, customer feedback, and market developments to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
Train and supervise retail staff (as required).
Facilitate customer returns.
Implement and enforce store policies and procedures to maintain a safe and productive work environment.
Collaborate with marketing and promotional teams to develop and execute initiatives to drive foot and online traffic and increase brand visibility.
Prepare regular reports on sales performance, inventory levels, and other key metrics for management review.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in business administration, retail management, or a related field.
Proven experience in retail management, with a minimum of 3-5 years.
Strong understanding of retail operations, including inventory management, sales forecasting, and merchandising.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills..
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategies to drive sales and improve operational efficiency.
Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of retail management software (Shopify)
Familiarity with import/export regulations and experience coordinating international shipments is preferred.
Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter summarising your interest in the position and providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in this brief
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Two references, including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single PDF format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com.
This position will remain vacant until it is filled.
This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).
Retail Operations Manager
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust is a non-profit, public trust that was established in 1982 with the objectives of furthering the fields of Architecture, the Fine Arts and Ecological and Environmental Studies. We offer an exciting, inclusive work environment for enthusiastic, organized and proactive individuals who are eager to take part in the Trust’s mission, responding to new ideas and initiatives with insight and intelligence.
The Assistant Curator will work with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust’s curatorial team on managing and improving access to the Trust’s art and archival collections, both on site and digitally, and delivering an exciting public programme. This is a full time role. Salary is commensurate with work experience. A minimum of 2 years commitment to the position is required and the position will commence once a suitable applicant is chosen.
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued. As an employer we foster an inclusive and flexible work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.
Eligibility and Requirements
Curatorial applicants must demonstrate keen interest and responsibility in the fields of architecture, art, conservation and public engagement.
Responsibilities
Assist Chief Curator and Assistant Curator in achieving the mission and strategic goals of the Trust
Provide assistance in achieving goals set by curatorial team for public programming and community experience: including developing and implementing programmes, exhibitions and publications
Provide management for the Curatorial department which would include supervising Curatorial Assistant and Curatorial And Archival Interns
Provide access to Trust archive by fulfilling requests for drawings and materials by public and students
Oversight and reporting on collections management, conservation, exhibition, educational programming, and research activities set out by the Chief Curator associated with the Trust’s Art and Archival Collections.
Collection of data logs and documentation with regard to archive and collection management
Leadership and collaboration with Assistant Curator and curatorial team in achieving best practices in archival and conservation work with regard to exhibitions, storage, art handling and ensure the highest standards of ethical practice are met in these pursuits.
Assist Curator with management and development of annual Curatorial and Archival Budget; assist with grant applications and related fundraising and reporting requirements
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in architecture, art history, art/museum education or related field OR 2 years of museum or institutional experience in curatorial or educational capacity required; equivalent education/experience considered. Must have exceptional organizational, event, and program management skills with the ability to nimbly prioritize and execute short-term and long-term projects. Must have excellent writing and communication skills in English, and preferably in at least one other language. Demonstrated ability to manage challenges and opportunities in unconventional, creative, and mission-focused manner and a conscientious, responsible work ethic is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in architecture, art history or museum studies with emphasis on museum education preferred. Familiarity with modern and contemporary arts and with current museum policies and practices, critical pedagogy, and multicultural education helpful. Familiarity with strategies and tools for online engagement and the use of technology for interpretation and learning preferred.
Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter summarizing your interest in the position and providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in this brief
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Two references, including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single PDF format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com.
This position will remain vacant until it is filled.
This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).
Assistant Curator
Head of Horticulture and Living Collections at Lunuganga
The Head of Horticulture and Living Collections will manage The Geoffrey Bawa Trust’s Living Collections and Projects at Lunuganga Gardens and Honduwa Island and develop projects based on the Trust’s ecological and environmental objectives. Overseeing regular activities and special projects across environmental conservation, ecological scholarship, and landscape design, the Head of Horticulture and Living Collections will foster dialogue, promote conversation, and facilitate research in collaboration with project partners and stakeholders.
This is a full time position. The candidate must be primarily based at Lunuganga and liaise with project partners as required. Salary and role is commensurate with work experience. A minimum of 4 years commitment to the position is required. The position reports directly to the Trust’s chairperson.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Overall management of the garden at Lunuganga, including its garden staff
Develop objectives and initiatives and fundraise to support the Trust’s mandate to further ecological and environmental sciences
Support external project partners with administrative and logistical tasks
Support national and international collaborators’ visits
Coordinate between project partners, Lunuganga staff, and board of Trustees
Develop and conduct public outreach in collaboration with the Trust’s Curatorial team
Prepare quarterly project reports and regularly update all stakeholders
Oversee the establishment of the Field Centre at Lunuganga and the operation of the Field Station at Honduwa Island
Adopt and document best practices in day to day maintenance and operations
Manage daily garden tours and other specialised tours of the garden
Ensure confidentiality of information
Eligibility and Requirements:
Applicants must demonstrate keen interest in the fields of ecology, landscape, architecture and art. Suitable candidates for this position must have excellent writing and oral communication skills in English, and at least one other local language, should possess exceptional networking abilities, people skills, communication skills and time management skills. Demonstrated ability to manage challenges and opportunities in unconventional, creative, and mission-focused manner and a conscientious, responsible work ethic is necessary. Must be able to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field and a minimum of 3 years of equivalent work experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter summarising your interest in the position and providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in this brief
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Contact information for two references who can speak to your suitability to the role including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single .pdf format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com.
Please include the role you are applying for in the title of the email.
Internship
The Geoffrey Bawa Trust aims to familiarise students and recent graduates with the operations of its Collections Management and Exhibition Programmes. The Curatorial Internship Programme is designed to provide professional experience to emerging practitioners in the design disciplines, the arts, the humanities, and cultural studies who are interested in exploring editorial and curatorial work in architecture and the arts. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to become acquainted with the Trust's curatorial approach—in particular its collection, exhibitions, editorial projects, and research program. Interns work full-time or part-time for a period of three to nine months, and receive a stipend. Areas of focus include; research, archiving, conservation, framing, object handling and storage, exhibition design and fabrication.
Internship Positions:
Geoffrey Bawa Trust Archives Internship
Geoffrey Bawa Trust Curatorial Internship
Geoffrey Bawa Trust Conservation Internship
Geoffrey Bawa Trust Production Internship
Eligibility and Requirements
Internships will be awarded to applicants who demonstrate keen interest and responsibility in their respective fields. Internships cannot be carried out remotely and candidates must be based in Sri Lanka in order to carry out the requirements of the position. Applications must include the following:
A one-page cover letter describing the relevance of the internship to your larger goals
A résumé or CV
An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record
Two references, including Name, Title, Relationship to you and Email or Phone Number of Contact Person.
Applications should be emailed in a single PDF format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities.gbt@gmail.com.
This position will remain vacant until it is filled.
This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).
Candidates will be contacted directly if an interview is appropriate. Please understand that with the volume of applications we receive, we will not have a chance to contact everyone. Note that we do not retain resumes which are not for a current opening so we encourage applicants to check the website periodically for updates.
Volunteer Programme
Since launching our Bawa 100 centenary programme, we have had a lot of interest from people who would like to volunteer at Lunuganga Trust. Volunteering is a great way to engage with your community, learn new skills, make friends and professional contacts, and engage more deeply with the legacy of an extraordinary architect and his collections. We accept volunteers aged 16 and over. Volunteers under 18 may be limited as to what volunteer opportunities are available to them. Volunteering is not equivalent to an internship or work experience.
Ideal candidates should possess an appreciation for art, a genuine interest in engaging with the public, keen attention to detail, and a positive attitude. Geoffrey Bawa Trust volunteers are proactive, adaptable, and understand that reliability is key.
To find out more, or express interest, email opportunities.gbt@gmail.com