Organizer Information
The Barbican is a multidisciplinary international arts centre in the City of London, renowned for its contemporary and modern Visual Arts, performance, music, film, and Design programs. The Centre showcases international artists, presents major exhibitions, and engages local communities through education and public programming. Its Visual Arts department produces solo commissions, large-scale exhibitions, and public events while maintaining partnerships with international institutions.
Title & Description
Visual Arts Events & Relationships Manager – Fixed Term Contract
The Barbican Centre invites applications for a Visual Arts Events & Relationships Manager to oversee its Visual Arts events program, including private views, receptions, and stakeholder engagement. The role supports curators and the Head of Visual Arts in planning, executing, and managing events that enhance public engagement and strengthen relationships with patrons, funders, and collaborators. The position combines strategic event planning with operational delivery in a leading international arts institution.
The Role Overview
- Salary: £38,080 – £42,150 (inclusive of London Weighting)
- Contract Type: Fixed Term (6 July 2026 – 31 May 2028, option to extend)
- Hours: 35 per week, Hybrid workplace
- Reporting To: Deputy Head of Visual Arts
- Curator/Programme: Works with the Head of Visual Arts and curators on event strategy
- Fee/Compensation: Paid full-time salary
Position & Tasks
- Lead development and management of Visual Arts opening events (private views, special previews, dinners)
- Plan event logistics, liaising with internal teams (Curatorial, Communications, Development) and external stakeholders
- Research and maintain guest lists, manage RSVPs, and facilitate VIP visits
- Use event management tools (Zkipster, Artifax, Spektrix) to coordinate operations
- Manage event budgets, negotiate with suppliers, and report on outcomes
- Research external venues and build professional relationships with key contacts
- Support broader relationship management for artists, lenders, and stakeholders
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Curatorial
- Event
- Arts Management
Eligibility
- Experienced arts professional with expertise in managing Visual Arts events
- Demonstrated skills in relationship management with artists, funders, and cultural stakeholders
- Strong project management and budget handling experience
- Experience with event software and supervising event staff
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Program Benefits
- Membership of Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- 24 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
- Access to staff benefits, discounts, and volunteering opportunities
- Work in a vibrant, inclusive international arts environment
- Opportunity to manage high-profile Visual Arts events and strengthen sector networks
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- CV/Resume
- Supporting statement (max 750 words) demonstrating relevant experience
- Applications should highlight achievements in Visual Arts event management, stakeholder engagement, and project delivery
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 14 April 2026
- Interviews: 29–30 April 2026
- Potential Start Date: 6 July 2026
Location
Barbican Centre, London, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
Additional Details
- Emphasis on delivering an international, inclusive Visual Arts program
- The role requires high-level stakeholder engagement and operational management
- Part of the City of London Corporation’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, including guaranteed interviews for disabled candidates under the Disability Confident Scheme