Organizer Information

SHIFT Culture is a European collaborative initiative developed to support environmental sustainability within the arts and cultural sector. Originating from the EU-funded Erasmus+ SHIFT project, the initiative brings together cultural networks and platforms across Europe to develop and implement an eco-certification scheme tailored to cultural organisations. SHIFT Culture focuses on reducing environmental impact, promoting sustainable organisational practices, and fostering long-term cultural change through training, peer learning, and shared governance models. The initiative is currently coordinated by Culture for Climate Scotland in collaboration with participating European networks and external auditing partners. SHIFT Culture positions itself as a practical and values-driven framework for cultural organisations committed to climate responsibility and sector-wide transformation.

Title & Description

SHIFT Culture – Call for a New Coordinator Organisation
SHIFT Culture is seeking a new coordinating organisation to lead the next phase of its eco-certification scheme for cultural networks and platforms. This opportunity is designed for experienced cultural organisations with expertise in sustainability, network coordination, and programme development. The selected coordinator will be responsible for managing, developing, and expanding the SHIFT Culture eco-certification framework, ensuring its long-term sustainability, relevance, and accessibility across Europe. Rather than an individual role, this call invites proposals from legal entities capable of overseeing a multi-year, pan-European initiative that combines governance, training, auditing processes, and community building.

The Role Overview

  • Role: Coordinator for the SHIFT Culture eco-certification scheme

  • Contract Type: Partnership proposal submitted by a legal entity (not individual employment)

  • Coordination Term: Expected to start second half of 2026, with transition no later than 2027-01-01

  • Reporting To: Steering group of SHIFT Culture participating networks

  • Remuneration / Fee: Not specified — coordination funded through network subscription model (€2,500/year per participant)

  • Programme: Development and leadership of a pan-European eco-certification initiative for cultural networks

Position & Tasks

The coordinating organisation will be responsible for managing all aspects of the SHIFT Culture programme, including:
  • Overseeing the eco-certification framework, including its criteria, tools, and auditing processes
  • Coordinating external auditors and maintaining quality standards
  • Facilitating governance structures and steering group meetings
  • Managing relationships with participating cultural networks and onboarding new members
  • Designing and delivering peer-to-peer learning activities, workshops, and training sessions
  • Developing communication strategies to promote the initiative and its impact
  • Ensuring financial sustainability and long-term strategic development of the programme
  • Representing SHIFT Culture in sector meetings, partnerships, and external events

Categories

This opportunity is relevant to the following disciplines and fields:
  • Art management and cultural leadership
  • Environmental sustainability in the arts
  • Research and policy development
  • Education and professional training
  • Cultural network coordination

Eligibility

Applications are open to legal entities only. Individual applicants are not eligible.
  • Proven experience in coordinating cultural or artistic networks
  • Expertise in environmental sustainability, eco-certification, or climate-focused initiatives
  • Capacity to manage European-level programmes and international partnerships
  • Strong organisational, governance, and financial management skills
The opportunity is open internationally, although applicants must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively within a European cultural context. English is required as the working language; additional languages are considered an asset.

Program Benefits

The selected coordinator organisation will:
  • Lead a recognised European eco-certification initiative in the cultural sector
  • Gain long-term visibility and sector influence as a sustainability leader
  • Collaborate with established cultural networks, experts, and auditors
  • Shape future sustainability standards and practices in arts and culture
  • Strengthen its organisational profile through European-level coordination work

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • A written proposal of up to five pages outlining their vision and approach
  • A description of organisational structure and governance model
  • A three-year budget overview covering 2027–2029
  • Evidence of relevant experience and past projects

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Call publication: 2 February 2026
  • Online information sessions:
  •  18 February 2026 (11:00–13:00 CET)
  •  20 February 2026 (14:00–16:00 CET)
  • Application deadline: 6 March 2026

Location

Remote / Europe-wide

Additional Details

Only shortlisted applicants may be contacted for follow-up discussions. SHIFT Culture is committed to inclusive and equitable cultural practice and encourages applications from organisations of different sizes and geographic contexts. The transition period between the current and future coordinator will be supported to ensure continuity of the programme.

Website Link: https://shift-culture.eu/achieve-environmental-sustainability-in-your-work/shift-culture-seeks-new-coordinator/