Senior Manager, Business Development

Singapore Art Museum opened in 1996 as the first art museum in Singapore. Also known as SAM, we present contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective for artists, art lovers and the art curious in multiple venues across the island, including a new venue in the historic port area of Tanjong Pagar.

SAM is building one of the world's most important public collections of Southeast Asian contemporary art, with the aim of connecting the art and the artists to the public and future generations through exhibitions and programmes. SAM is working towards a humane and sustainable future by committing to responsible practices within its processes.

For more information, visit www.singaporeartmuseum.sg.

The Senior Manager, Business Development, will oversee SAM's commercial operations, including but not limited to retail and F&B spaces, museum-branded merchandise, and revenue-generating initiatives such as venue rentals and corporate art experiences. The role involves managing teams within retail and F&B spaces, ensuring alignment with SAM's vision and goals. This role requires a business-savvy individual with strong leadership, collaboration, and organisational skills to manage self, staff, and cross-departmental projects effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operations of retail and F&B spaces, ensuring exceptional service and operational efficiency without requiring a constant physical presence at the spaces.
• Lead and manage staff within retail and F&B outlets, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Oversee retail and merchandise sales across on-site, off-site, and potential future online platforms, ensuring offerings align with SAM's branding and enhance visitor experiences.
• Monitor and analyse operational performance, implementing strategies to meet revenue and quality targets.

• Conceptualise and execute artists-led F&B collaborations, integrating contemporary art into the food and beverage experience.
• Work closely with artists, curators, and the F&B team to develop innovative, art-inspired menu items or events.
• Promote these collaborations as unique programming opportunities that enhance SAM's value to visitors and generate additional revenue.

• Develop and manage a range of museum-branded merchandise that reflects SAM's exhibitions and programming.
• Work with designers, suppliers, and internal teams to create innovative, high-quality products.
• Analyse sales trends and visitor feedback to refine product offerings and maximise profitability.

• Plan, coordinate, and promote venue rental opportunities for corporate, private, and community events.
• Develop and implement corporate art experiences that leverage SAM's artistic and curatorial strengths.
• Identify and pursue new opportunities to diversify and enhance revenue streams.

• Provide leadership and guidance to retail and F&B teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Conduct regular team meetings to review performance, share updates, and address challenges.
• Create and implement professional development plans to enhance team capabilities and job satisfaction.

• Collaborate with curatorial, marketing, programming, and visitor experience teams to align business activities with museum goals.
• Act as a liaison between operational and marketing teams, ensuring seamless execution of initiatives.
• Facilitate open communication across departments to optimise outcomes and build strong working relationships.

• Prepare and manage budgets for all commercial areas, ensuring alignment with financial targets.
• Track and report on performance metrics, providing actionable insights to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, operational, and safety regulations in retail and F&B spaces.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of experience in business development, retail management, or a related role, with demonstrated success in managing teams and projects.
• Strong business acumen and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to manage internal and external stakeholders.
• Analytical skills to evaluate operational performance and financial metrics.
• Creativity and a visitor-focused mindset.
• Knowledge of Singapore's arts and cultural landscape is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to handle multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive team player who inspires and motivates others to achieve shared goals.