Working in the Arts: Tereze Lujane

This week for our ongoing Working in the Arts profile, we talk to Tereze Lujane who is EA to the CEO of Serpentine.

So, where do you work?

I recently joined Serpentine, based in the heart of Kensington Park. With two galleries and a Pavilion, it is the best office I could have asked for.

What is your job title? 

My official title is Executive Assistant to the CEO.

What time did you wake up? What are you usual working hours?

I usually wake up a bit early to get a yoga class in before heading off to the office, it’s nice to feel like I’ve already checked something off my to do list by the time I am in office. I try to be in by 9.30am so I can get a head start to the day. Some days are longer when we have a work event or exhibition opening but no two days are ever the same which is exciting.

What are your key tasks?

It is a very versatile position and my job covers a lot of aspects from diary management to travel organisation, as well as assisting with speeches for events and setting up all types of meetings. It is a very fast paced environment which has definitely challenged me on all levels, but it is an environment I thrive in and really enjoy.

What was your career path to this role?

After finishing my Master’s in Art History I worked in Construction in an Administrative role for a couple of years during Covid. Through DRAW I was able to secure a job in a commercial gallery in the heart of Mayfair, where I spent a few years, gaining invaluable art world experience. From a young age I always knew I wanted to work in the art world and be a part of it, so everything I did from education to work experience was to enrich my CV to allow me to get my foot through the door.

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Best: meeting so many different people and working with an amazing cohort of staff. Everyone is incredibly knowledgeable, and I am learning so much. It’s the best place to be in this early in my professional career. Worst: it can sometimes be challenging working from home, I miss my two large monitors I have set up at my desk at work (a sentence my younger self never thought I’d say).

What careers advice would you give to your 18 year old self with the benefit of hindsight?

I would say not to panic about the future. Don’t let rejection dishearten you, it will all be okay – and it just means you are one step closer to the job you’re meant to have. I am a very big believer that everything happens for a reason! When you’re going into university or your first job, it is easy to get caught up in the future and your plans for it, but you should remember to live in the moment.

Have you had a secret job that is not on your CV?

Whilst at University for my BA degree I had the chance to be a Student Ambassador and speak to incoming applicants and students about the course. It was a great way to inspire new students and also practice my people skills setting me up for my future roles.