Visitor Experience Volunteer
Background
The Royal Institute of British Architecture champions better buildings,
communities and the environment through architecture. 66 Portland Place is the
home of the RIBA and our ambition is to become the major cultural destination
within which to explore architecture, design and the world around us. With an
internationally recognised collection of over four million books, drawings,
photographs, models and other archives (free and open to the public) and an
exciting programme of exhibitions, talks and workshops, the RIBA inspires and
engages a diverse range of audiences.
There’s never been a better time to get involved with the RIBA: we have just
opened a brand new museum quality architecture gallery at 66 Portland Place, our
London headquarters. The gallery will host an exciting programme of free
exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing items from our world-class
collections.
Launching the new architecture gallery, The Brits Who Built the Modern World 1950-2012
(13 February – 27 May 2014), tells the fascinating story of the transformation of British
architecture as it grew to become world-leading in the second half of the 20th century.
Our vision is to transform 66 Portland Place and provide a unique and inspiring
visitor destination - a place to explore and discover architecture.
As a Visitor Experience volunteer, you will be part of the transformation of
the RIBA’s headquarters and will help us to become an accessible, public
cultural destination for all.
We are looking for volunteers to: greet visitors as they enter the building
and Architecture Gallery; to assist with gallery supervision; to provide a
friendly and helpful welcome (giving directions and answering queries
about exhibitions, displays, the public programme and our onsite facilities.)
We ask that volunteers commit to at least three months of volunteering, once a
week, half a day per week (although full days can be accommodated). We can offer
a full volunteer induction, training, and travel expenses.
Role outline:
1. To provide a primary welcome to visitors to the RIBA, 66 Portland Place
and to advise visitors of the building layout, contents and gallery/visitor
policy
2. To supervise The Architecture Gallery, welcoming visitors, replying to
enquiries and requests in a polite and friendly manner
3. When supervising The Architecture Gallery, liaise with the Public
Programmes team regarding any concerns about the safety and security of
objects on display
4. To support group visits to The Architecture Gallery by acting as a gallery
supervisor whilst tours take place and providing additional support for the
curator/tour leader during such visits
5. To promote the RIBA’s upcoming exhibitions, events and supporter
schemes by distributing information (leaflets etc.) and talking to visitors
about the programme/such schemes
6. To act as first point of contact for visitor comments & complaints and
refer visitors on to a member of Reception team or the Volunteer
Coordinator, where appropriate. Record feedback and complaints for
future reference.
7. To attend any necessary training which the RIBA may provide to carry out
the role.
8. To be committed to Health & Safety, and become familiar with the
RIBA’s Health & Safety Policy.
9. Look smart and tidy at all times ensuring that you follow the Volunteers’
dress code and wear identification provided whilst in a public area.
10. Be security conscious, ensure familiarity and cooperation with all RIBA
security procedures
To undertake this role, volunteers will possess the following skills and
attributes:
1. A good level of visitor care skills with a visitor-first attitude
2. A friendly manner with the confidence to interact with visitors and
anticipate their needs
3. Enthusiasm for architecture and design, and willingness to learn from
RIBA staff about the collections and exhibitions
4. Good spoken English, with the ability to convey accurate information
about the RIBA to visitors and colleagues in a succinct and friendly
manner.
5. Reliable and trustworthy with the ability to use one’s own initiative and
operate as part of a team. Able to adapt to new or changing situations.
6. Able to maintain a level of physical activity within the venue, which may
involve the need to stand and walk for extended periods of time
7. Smart presentation and a confident style.
The RIBA is committed to equal opportunities for all its staff, volunteers and
visitors.
How to register your interest:
Please complete our volunteer application form - available as a PDF or Word
document on www.architecture.com - and return to Elena Smith, Friends
Development Manager, RIBA, 66 Portland Place, London W1B 1AD. We also
welcome emailed applications – please send to elena.smith@riba.org
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact Elena Smith,
Friends Development Manager, on 020 7307 3810 / elena.smith@riba.org