Chief of Learning, Engagement, and Research

The Hammer Museum at UCLA seeks a visionary leader to establish a multidisciplinary platform that advances its public programs, community partnerships, and academic initiatives. This role will be instrumental in deepening the museum’s educational mission and expanding audience engagement across all ages, while fostering research onsite, online, and offsite.

Rooted in the belief that art and ideas have the power to illuminate our lives and build a more just world, the Hammer champions artists who challenge us to see differently, imagine boldly, and engage deeply. The museum recognizes that art not only offers aesthetic experiences but also provides profound insight into the cultural, political, and social issues of our time. Through dynamic exhibitions and programs—including lectures, symposia, film series, readings, and musical performances—the Hammer serves as a vibrant intellectual and creative nexus.

The successful candidate will ensure that all initiatives align with institutional capacity, remain financially sustainable, and support the Hammer’s strategic priorities. Their approach should empower staff, enrich the museum’s role as a hub for learning and research, and strengthen its artist-centered mission. They will cultivate meaningful connections between audiences and artists, elevate the Hammer’s civic presence, and enhance its impact locally, nationally, and internationally—especially in contributing to the cultural life of Los Angeles and reinforcing its core relationship with the University of California, Los Angeles.

The posted salary for this position is $180,000 – $200,000 and is commensurate with experience.

Application Instructions

The Hammer has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in this search. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. For more details, including the full position profile and to submit inquiries, nominations, referrals, and applications, please see the Isaacson, Miller website for the search: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/hammer-museum/chief-learning-engagement-and-research. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Sarah James, Courtney Wilk-Mandel, Aku Ammah-Tagoe, and Cara Meyers
Isaacson, Miller

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/DiscHarassAffirmAction