John Mouncey
Front of House Manager, Manchester Art Gallery
Job Overview
I have been at Manchester Art Gallery since September 2008. I am a Visitor Services Manager working with three others managers. Together we are responsible for the front of house operations of the gallery and manage a team of around thirty staff. One of my specific roles involves identifying and providing opportunities for the personal development of staff.
Biography
I have no formal training whatsoever which is why doing the PDP is exciting for me. I have had various jobs throughout Manchester that have brought me to this point. I started out as an Assistant Manager for Revolution - the vodka bars. I moved on to Showcase Cinemas as a Manager and then to Front of House Manager at The Palace Theatre. From here, it was a short stroll to Assistant House Manager at The Bridgewater Hall and then a shorter stroll to House Manager at The Library Theatre. It was then a mere step to Manchester Art Gallery, which is where my hat lays now.
Motivation and Aims for undertaking the PDP
In my role at the gallery, I have recognised the as-of-yet untapped resources available in my Visitor Services team. The project I will undertake during the PDP is the perfect opportunity to develop not only my own personal and professional skills/knowledge but also, that of the team.
The PDP will give me the knowledge and skills to create something innovative and exciting. The intention is for us to work together and create an exhibition of our own. Quite how this will work is why I am doing the PDP.