The art of the perfect fit

Head of Programme, Arts & Culture Foundation

Posted: 03.07.2025
Contract Type: Full-time
Job Type: Permanent
Pay: Around £50,000
Location: London, UK
Tenure: Permanent
Job description:

A highly respected charitable foundation is seeking a Head of Programme to help deliver its ambitious vision for arts and culture, while supporting broader initiatives in education, relief work, and health.

With a strong track record of championing Asian art and culture on the global stage, the foundation is known for its innovative collaborations with leading cultural organisations and its commitment to promoting traditional and contemporary Asian perspectives. Through grants, curatorial partnerships, and original programming, it fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Asian culture within an international context.

The Role:

Reporting to the Director and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the Head of Programme will play a pivotal role in developing, managing and delivering the foundation’s arts and culture programme. This includes identifying new project opportunities, assessing grant applications, maintaining key partnerships, and representing the foundation at public events and sector gatherings.

The successful candidate will bring a deep understanding of Asian art and culture, alongside strong project management, curatorial, and strategic skills. They will be responsible for both supporting existing initiatives and generating new ones that align with the foundation’s vision. They will also contribute to its broader charitable goals in education, relief and health through research and advisory support.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support the Director in maintaining the foundation’s profile as a key voice in Asian art and culture across the UK, Europe, and beyond.
  • Research and propose collaborative or in-house project ideas and present to the Director and Trustees.
  • Manage the foundation’s arts and culture grant scheme, including application assessment, feedback, financial review, and risk analysis.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with grantees, artists, specialists, and partner organisations.
  • Contribute to marketing and communication strategies, including content for the foundation’s website, social media, and newsletters.
  • Represent the foundation at external events, acting as a key advocate for its vision and programme.
  • Support planning and delivery of public events curated by the foundation.
  • Conduct research into other areas of charitable focus—such as education, health, and relief work—to support trustee interests.
  • Present at quarterly board meetings and deputise for the Director when required.
  • Fulfil other foundation-related duties as needed.

Person Specification:

Essential

  • Degree in Arts and Culture or a related field, with specific knowledge of Asian art.
  • Demonstrable engagement with Asian art and culture through academic or lived experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of and connections within national and international arts institutions, particularly in the UK, Europe, and Middle East.
  • Strong project management and curatorial experience.
  • Excellent stakeholder relationship skills.
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication, including public speaking.
  • Strategic and flexible thinker with an adaptable, collaborative approach.
  • Willingness to travel both within the UK and internationally.

Desirable

  • Interest or experience in charitable sectors such as health, education, or humanitarian relief.
  • Published writing on Asian art or culture.
  • Experience working with boards of trustees and understanding of charity governance.
  • Familiarity with writing contracts and partnership agreements.
  • A general understanding of charity finances.