Database and Archives Manager 0,8-1 FTE

The World Press Photo Foundation believes in the power of showing and the importance of seeing high-quality visual stories. Our purpose is to connect the world to the stories that matter.

For almost seven decades, the World Press Photo Foundation has been working from its home in Amsterdam as an independent, nonprofit organization. In that time, the world has changed continuously, and new developments in the media and technology have transformed journalism and photography. Our mission has expanded, and we draw on our experience to guide photojournalists, documentary photographers, and audiences around the world through this challenging and exciting landscape.

Our annual contest recognizes and celebrates the best photojournalism and documentary photography produced over the last year. The winning stories are shared with an online community of over 2.5 million people, in the yearbook and our traveling exhibition, which was showcased in 66 locations in 29 different countries last year.

The Curatorial Affairs Team is currently looking for a Database and Archives Manager to join our team, starting as soon as possible.

Database and Archives Manager 0,8-1 FTE

Position Summary
The Database and Archives Manager facilitates the implementation of a new database system and the migration of data related to its digital and physical archive. Working within the Curatorial Affairs team and in collaboration with other staff, the manager will oversee the configuration of the database (DAMS and CMS compliant) to align with WPP’s priorities and goals for its archive. The manager will also be responsible for uploading and refining data (primarily digital records and assets), as well as outlining a metadata policy and strategy.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Develop and customize the infrastructure of the database to accommodate all elements that constitute WPP’s archive (digital assets, physical objects, records, and more)

• Review archival procedures for the current and future collections, including description and arrangement, processing and digitizing (where applicable), metadata entry and creating finding aids

• Integrate the database with existing platforms and software as required

• Generate, populate, and update individual records in the database

• Migrate and synthesize information from an extensive digital archive

• Oversee the day-to-day administration and maintenance needs of the database

• Create a metadata strategy in collaboration with other staff

• Develop a taxonomy

• Outline data clean-up and improvement projects

• Institute an updated cataloguing system for integration into the database; the system should accommodate digital files and physical objects

• Catalogue physical objects

• Assess and ensure integrity of digital image files

• Advise on non-exclusive licensing and rights & repro needs

• Troubleshoot IT issues

• Liaise with software technicians as needed

• Provide training and support for internal database users

Qualifications and Skills

• Masters degree in Information Studies, Library Science or a related field. MLIS or MA required.

• Minimum seven (7) years of experience in database systems administration. Experience with Resourcespace preferred.

• Expertise in implementing database systems, preferably for arts organizations

• Significant experience working with archives (digital and physical) and digital asset management systems

• General knowledge of photography and image file formats

• Informed about various types of CMS and DAMS

• Understanding of data entry standards, vocabularies, linked data tools, and inclusive practices

• Proficient in relational database and SQL

• Familiarity with APIs

• Experience with digital project and program management

• Fluent in English. Knowledge of Dutch (written) is a plus.

• Exceptional attention to detail

• Great organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills

• Excellent technical and interpersonal skills

• Effective oral and written communication skills

• Strong-work ethic and can-do approach

• Proven ability to work collaboratively and respect diverse expertise and opinions

We welcome applications from individuals who are curious, creative, self-motivated, goal-oriented, flexible, thorough, and able to meet deadlines.

Our offer
We would like you to start at as soon as possible with a one-year contract. Working hours are 32-40 hours per week. We currently offer the opportunity to work hybridly from office and home. Our good secondary working conditions include reimbursement of commuting expenses and 224 holiday hours per calendar year in case of full time employment.

General information
The World Press Photo Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization with its office in Amsterdam. The organization employs around 25 professionals.

The World Press Photo Foundation wants to enhance the diversity of its workforce. We do not discriminate against anyone on the basis of age, gender, nationality, race or ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation. We encourage applications that can make the organization a better reflection of global society. 
This position is at the moment only open to EU citizens or individuals with an existing and valid work permit for the EU.

If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, please contact Mercedes Almagro Ocana, Senior Programs Project Manager (mercedes@worldpressphoto.org), +31 (0)20 676 6096.

How to apply
Please respond in English before 24 October 2024 by filling in the application form. Please submit both your CV and a letter of motivation as a pdf document. You can start your application by clicking:
https://world-press-photo.homerun.co/database-and-archives-manager/en/apply?&step=1