Archive Brand Manager

Vlisco possesses one of the largest single collections of textile archive in the world with more than 350,000 wax and hundreds of sample books dating back to the early 1800s retracing the European history of textile. The brand also possesses a rich chronicle of cultural icons who have worn our fabrics, from Nelson Mandela, Miriam Makeba, The Beatles, and George Foreman to artists that have used on print in their work: Kehinde Wiley, Seydou Keïta, and Yinka Shonibare.

We are seeking an ambitious Archive & Collection Manager to transform this unparalleled heritage into a 360° powerhouse that fuels design innovation, deepens brand storytelling, and elevates Vlisco’s global cultural presence. You will guide day-to-day stewardship of the collection, manage two archive professionals (Collection Manager and Collection Coordinator), and spearhead projects and partnerships that anchor Vlisco’s modern legacy in the worlds of art, fashion, and culture.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Elevate the Archive into Vlisco’s “creative engine room” that inspires and fuels key departments such as marketing, design, and product;

• Leverage Vlisco’s rich heritage to strengthen and reinforce our modern brand identity;

• Develop and maintain marquee collaborations with top-tier museums, cultural institutions, and design partners;

• Expand and deepen the Vlisco Archive by conducting internal research and leveraging research institutions to increase knowledge of the brand, especially regarding landmark cultural and historical moments;

• Systematically capture and digitise Vlisco content beyond fabrics, including original sketches, photographs, and marketing campaigns, to elevate the Archive into a 360° source of brand lore;

• Finalise the clean-up of the old Archive to obtain a centralised and inventoried source of truth for the organisation;

• Coach and develop the Collection Manager and Collection Coordinator, setting annual objectives and professional growth plans; manage departmental budget, vendors, and project timelines with a focus on ROI and impact.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Archival Studies, Museum or Heritage Studies, Art History, Fashion, Textile Design, or a related field;

• 7+ years of relevant work experience in archival, museum, or luxury collection management; at least 3 years in a leadership role or managing teams within archive, museum, or collection management;

• Proven experience in exhibition partnerships;

• Strong network within museums, galleries, and research institutions;

• Passion for textiles, design, and African culture;

• Strategic thinker;

• Available for approximately 20 to 28/32 hours per week;

• Knowledge of digitisation processes and metadata standards;

• Stakeholder management skills;

• Fluency in English and Dutch; French is a plus.

IN RETURN WE OFFER YOU:

• Competitive salary, including a 13th month salary, 8% holiday allowance and a pension plan;

• 25 holidays + 13 ATV-days per calendar on a full-time basis;

• Travel expenses for travelling by private or public transport;

• Personal sustainable employability budget;

• Various learning & development opportunities offered through our Vlisco Academy;

• A workplace situated in the centre of Helmond, within walking distance of Helmond station.