Opportunities

The Visitor Services Coordinator will work with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust’s team to ensure that visitors to the Trust-managed premises in Colombo have a seamless experience when visiting and staying at these properties. The Visitor Services Coordinator is responsible for delivering excellence in customer service in a broad range of front-of-house operations including booking and ticketing , visitor and customer service for public programs as well as supporting the operational delivery of public and private events.This is a full time role which requires daily reporting at the Geoffrey Bawa Space (Horton Place, Colombo 07) on weekdays. Salary is commensurate with work experience. 

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate keen interest in hospitality services and a high level of organization and responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Assist General Operations Manager with all administrative tasks relevant to the Geoffrey Bawa and Lunuganga Trusts, 

• Manage all communication via telephone and emails, while ensuring professional and efficient communication following Geoffrey Bawa Trust guidelines 

• Greet visitors and manage the front desk at the Geoffrey Bawa Space; coordinates docents for weekend programmes

• Oversee Geoffrey Bawa Trust merchandise stores; including invoicing, packaging, liaising with suppliers, managing inventories and restocking, working with the Trust's media team to promote items, attach labels and descriptions and maintain standards of physical displays across No. 11, Lunuganga and the Geoffrey Bawa Space with the Production team

• Provides assistance to all visitors professionally to ensure their visitor experience journey is met to the highest standards, by providing relevant information regarding the Trust’s premises, programmes and protocols

• Perform clerical and administrative support such as office work this includes document encoding, scanning, photocopying, archiving, etc.

• Ensure professional outlook to the reception and publicly accessible areas at the Geoffrey Bawa Space

• Oversees inventory of supplies for office, gallery and staff use and restocks as needed, maintaining relevant records and budgets

• Record and prepare necessary reports including sales report, inventory report, visitor summary, etc

• Perform other necessary tasks as assigned by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust management team 

Minimum Qualifications

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in communication, Arts related major, education, or tourism and hospitality. A good level of standard of written English and numeracy. Basic Information Communication Technology skill this includes Microsoft Word, and Excel, programmes such as Calendly, Fetcher, Google Drive etc. Present strong communication skills in English and preferably other languages. Presents work experience of a minimum of 2 years in Visitor Service Coordinator or Customer Service-related position. Experiences should include a role that involves dealing directly with the public, in settings such as a museum, school, and cultural sites and preferably in the Arts, Culture or Tourism sector.

Personal attributes

Friendly and motivated with a positive attitude, proactive and open to learning and gaining knowledge in relevant areas, adaptable to sudden situation changes and willing to work on different tasks as and when required. Self-motivated, creative individual competent in prioritizing and working without supervision. Also, has an interest to learn about The Geoffrey Bawa Trust programmes and to share this with our visitors. Presents an interest in the Arts.

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 professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

Applications should be emailed in a single .pdf format (file size less than 10 mb) to opportunities@geoffreybawa.org and be submitted by February 16, 2024. This position is only open to applicants who are legally eligible to work in Sri Lanka (citizens and those who have work permits).

The Education and Public Engagement Coordinator will coordinate and manage the execution of all Geoffrey Bawa Trust and Lunuganga Trust programmes, projects, and events including publications. TheEducation and Public Engagement 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:

• Working with the Chief Curator to develop a detailed quarterly education and public programme for the Trust across its properties in Colombo and Bentota, with a primary focus on the Geoffrey Bawa Space at 42/1, Horton Place, Colombo 07

• Liaising with the Trust’s team and securing other freelance contractors as required and permissible by the budget and Trust policies

• Organising and conducting talks, tours, workshops and other events to further the Trust’s education and public engagement mission; including booking venues and other logistics, preparing training materials, including booking venues and coordinating other logistics including AV and catering, managing registration and event feedback and coordinating with other team members to ensure publicity, press and production aspects are executed as needed.

• Being responsible for all project budgets from start to finish in collaboration with project leaders.

• Obtaining and coordinating with prospective and confirmed collaborators 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/collaborator 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 Design and Communications Manager to ensure all technical and logistical requirements of 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 to design and disseminate all publicity and promotional material for public events and programmes.

• Overseeing de-briefing, reporting and documentation at the completion of all 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, organization 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 OR a minimum of 4 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 professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

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 of the role include:

• 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 analyse 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

• Coordinate shooting merchandise and updateg new products on the online store, ensuring high-quality visuals and accurate product information.

• Prepare regular reports on sales performance, inventory levels, and other key metrics for management review

Eligibility and Requirements

• 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 Shopify, including store setup, inventory management, order processing and shipping, POS integration, sales analytics, and third-party app integrations for retail operations

• 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 professional references with no personal relationships to you,  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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

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.

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 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 professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

Collections & Archives Interns work with the Curators and other relevant staff members to assist with various collections and archives-related tasks at the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. The Archives Intern will assist with ongoing cataloguing and digitization efforts of the Geoffrey Bawa Trust and Lunuganga Trust Collections and Archives, which include paintings, sculptures, textiles, works on paper (fine art drawings and prints, photographs and architectural drawings) and rare books. Salary is commensurate with work experience; minimum 30 hours per week commitment required.

Responsibilities of the role include:

1. Assist with cataloguing, digitizing and inventorying the Trust’s archival collections.

2. Entering archival collections into the Trust’s new database.

3. Assist with moving, organizing and storing objects within the Trust’s physical archives.

4. Research histories, materials, techniques, and provenance of particular archival items when appropriate. Consult with the Trust’s curators and other stakeholders throughout the process.

5. Assist with ongoing research and curatorial projects which use archival sources.

6. Follow archival best practices as guided by curators and through self-driven research

7. Assist with general activities such as cleaning individual work area and shared work areas after use. Identify necessary supplies and work with curators to procure them.

8. Share findings and outcomes of work with colleagues and stakeholders at the Trust  and, where permitted, with general and professional audiences through public presentations or other means. 

9. Participate in department meetings, workshops, classes, or other opportunities as possible.

10. Complete a one-page reflection, blog post, or interview about your internship experience.

Eligibility and Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

1. Proficiency in general computer use, including Microsoft Office suite 

2. Proficiency in digital image software (Adobe Photoshop or similar) and using a Digital camera for documentation purposes

3. Highly developed hand skills and good judgement.

4. Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to clearly articulate goals, progress, and outcomes to a professional audience.

5. Ability to lift up to 20 kgs

6. Ability to work both independently on projects and as a team member for department priority tasks and group projects.

7. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive and proprietary information.

8. Ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

9. Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail and prolonged focus.

10. Ability to ask for help and accept supervision and evaluation of your work.

11. Ability to work with co-workers, vendors, and volunteers professionally and tactfully.

12. Ability to adhere to institutional policies and support management decisions in a positive, professional manner.

Preferred Qualifications

1.  Art historical knowledge and demonstrated interest in museum matters.

2. Experience with museum or other database software

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

• Digital portfolio or work sample or examples of art and craft-making skills

• An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record

• Two professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

The Conservation Intern will assist with ongoing conservation efforts of the Geoffrey Bawa Trust and Lunuganga Trust collections, which include paintings, sculptures, textiles, works on paper and rare books. Salary is commensurate with work experience; minimum 30 hours per week commitment required.

Responsibilities of the role include:

1. Assess and document the condition of works of art, including written and photographic documentation into the Trust’s database and records

2.  Assist collections staff with cleaning, organizing and rehousing objects in storage.

3. Assist with Integrated Preventive Pest Management

4. Assist with moving, organizing and storing objects to ensure easy access for inventory and photography, and guarantee security of collection during regular activities and events.

5. Research materials, techniques, and provenance of particular works of art when appropriate. Consult with the Trust’s curators and other stakeholders throughout the process.

6. Assist with framing adjustments and the preparation of archival display materials.

7. Test, document, and plan exhibition display materials.

8. Assist with general activities such as cleaning individual work area and shared work areas after use. Identify necessary supplies and work with curators to procure them.

9. Share findings and outcomes of work with colleagues and stakeholders at the Trust  and, where permitted, with general and professional audiences through public presentations or other means. 

10. Participate in department meetings, workshops, classes, or other opportunities as possible.

11. Complete a one-page reflection, blog post, or interview about your internship experience.

Eligibility and Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

1. Proficiency in general computer use, including Microsoft Office suite 

2. Proficiency in digital image software (Adobe Photoshop or similar) and using a Digital camera for documentation purposes

3. Highly developed hand skills and good judgement.

4. Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to clearly articulate goals, progress, and outcomes to a professional audience.

5. Ability to lift up to 20 kgs

6. Ability to work both independently on projects and as a team member for department priority tasks and group projects.

7. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive and proprietary information.

8. Ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

9. Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail and prolonged focus.

10. Ability to ask for help and accept supervision and evaluation of your work.

11. Ability to work with co-workers, vendors, and volunteers professionally and tactfully.

12. Ability to adhere to institutional policies and support management decisions in a positive, professional manner.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Knowledge of materials and techniques related to artistic production, archival collections storage, and/or conservation treatment.

2. Graded Fine Arts and Chemistry courses/Sufficient scientific knowledge for undertaking examination, analysis, and condition documentation for art objects.

3.  Art historical knowledge and demonstrated interest in museum matters.

4. Experience with museum or other database software

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

• Digital portfolio or work sample or examples of art and craft-making skills

• An unofficial transcript of your undergraduate or graduate record

• Two professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

This position will remain vacant until it is filled.

The Programmes Intern will assist in coordinating and managing the execution of all Geoffrey Bawa Trust and Lunuganga Trust programmes, projects, and events. The Programmes Intern will assist in tracking and managing the schedule and budget of the aforesaid programmes, projects, and events. Salary and role is commensurate with work experience. This is a full-time role.

Responsibilities of the role include:

1. Assist in organising and conducting public events, tours and workshops, as part of the Trust’s public programmes;  including booking venues and coordinating other logistics including AV and catering, managing registration and event feedback and coordinating with other GBT team members to ensure publicity, press and production aspects are executed as needed.  

2. Assisting the Education and Public Engagement Coordinator  who is responsible for all project budgets from start to finish in collaboration with project leaders.

3.  Obtaining and coordinating with prospective and confirmed collaborators  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 in collaboration with the Education and Public Engagement Coordinator 

4. Assisting with management of 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.

5. Assist with managing volunteers, docents, and contractual staff for exhibitions and events providing catering, janitorial, security, documentary and other relevant services.

6. Working with the the Education and Public Engagement Coordinator, Production Manager, Registrar, and 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.

7. Preparing and record keeping for all programme-related contracts and documents.

8. Communicate essential contract-related information to all relevant personnel.

9. Working with the Design and Communications department and Education and Public Engagement Coordinator to design and disseminate all publicity and promotional material for public events and programmes.

10. Assist with overseeing de-briefing, reporting and documentation at the completion of all programmes

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate keen interest in the fields of architecture, art, design and already possess project management skills. 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, organization skills, time management skills and the ability to pay attention to detail. 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 OR a minimum of 2 years of equivalent work experience will be considered. Previous event organization, project management experience is a bonus.

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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

The Library Intern will assist in managing and organizing the new Reference Library at the Geoffrey Bawa Space at 42/1, Horton Place, Colombo 07.  Salary is commensurate with work experience and a minimum commitment of 30 hours per week is required.

Responsibilities of the role include:

• Input reference collection information into the newly created online cataloguing system for the library and maintain up-to-date inventory

• Assist the Curatorial team with additional library projects, as needed.

• Prepare and maintain finding aids to assist with navigating the Geoffrey Bawa Trust reference Library.

• Set up research appointments and assist on-site research requests; create title lists for access by researchers.

• Respond to researcher inquiries, by doing a cursory search within a set of certain records.

• Spend some time in the reading room during open hours

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate keen interest in the fields of library science, architecture, art, design and ecology and have experience using library collections for research. 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  organization skills, time management skills and the ability to pay attention to detail. A conscientious, responsible work ethic is necessary. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Current or recent graduate, majoring in museum studies, library science, public history, art history, history, or a related field.

• Familiarity with museum/library standards and best practices.

• Research skills in a variety of formats including print and digital. 

• The ability to process research, organize findings, and report to curatorial team  in clear and concise ways.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to learn on the job.

• Works well in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a museum/library setting.

• Prior experience with data entry/working with a library database.

• Experience handling library material, books, and paper ephemera.

• Demonstrated ability to share interest in using library collections and implement creative strategies for building and nurturing relationships with potential user groups

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 professional references with no personal relationships to you, 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@geoffreybawa.org

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).

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@geoffreybawa.org