Programme Manager Arts

We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity. Working with people in over 200 countries and territories, we are on the ground in more than 100 countries. We connect. We inspire. Role Lead the delivery of impactful Arts programmes that connect the UK and Thailand through creative exchange, collaboration, and innovation. Working across the British Council's global programmes, Arts in Action and Creative Growth, you will manage programme activities, build strategic partnerships, and foster relationships with artists, cultural organisations, and creative sector stakeholders. You'll collaborate with colleagues across Thailand and the British Council's global Arts network to deliver high-quality projects that support artistic innovation, inclusive creative practice, cultural dialogue, and sustainable growth in the creative economy. Managing key stakeholders and partners, and potentially leading a small local team, you'll help strengthen long-term connections between the UK's and Thailand's vibrant cultural sectors while contributing to the British Council's mission of building trust, opportunity, and international collaboration through the arts. Accountabilities * Sector / Subject Expertise: Using knowledge of the local arts sector to deliver relevant Arts programmes, strengthen understanding of UK creative sector priorities, and foster international collaboration. * Leadership & Management: Providing specialist Arts expertise, collaborating with global teams, and managing programme delivery while embedding EDI and anti-racist practices. * Strategy & Planning: Supporting the planning of the country Arts portfolio, aligning strategic priorities, and leveraging digital channels to maximise impact and sustainability. * Relationship & Stakeholder Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships across the arts and cultural sectors, while developing a diverse network of creative and cultural stakeholders. * Brand & Market Positioning: Promoting the diversity of UK arts and creative industries, strengthening the British Council's reputation, and showcasing programme impact through engaging communications. * Programme Management: Managing Arts projects, budgets, contracts, procurement, grants, due diligence, stakeholder engagement, and reporting to ensure successful delivery and accountability. Qualifications Education: Degree level in Arts & Humanities fields or relevant professional experience Professional Certification Project management or equivalent qualification or equivalent work experience Role Specific Skills: * Knowledge of local Arts * Ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships * Understanding of MEL principles and ability to apply within an Arts context * Ability to manage end-end programme delivery and finance * Good interpersonal and communications skills * Teamworking skills Role Specific Knowledge and Experience Essential * Good knowledge and understanding of current trends and practices in at least one sector of the arts and creative industries in the country * Experience of working on national arts/ creative industry projects Desirable * Understanding and appreciation of current arts trends and practices in the UK * Experience of working on international arts projects * Experience of fund raising Important Information: Language Requirements: Proficient written and spoken English and Thai Pay Band: 6 Department: Arts Working Arrangement: Onsite Location/Country: Bangkok, Thailand Closing Date: 27 August 2026 at 11:59 PM IST and 28 August 2026 1:29 AM ICT Proof of Identity requirements/right to work in country: Candidates should ensure they have the pre-existing legal right to live and work in the country where the role is based. Mobility / relocation / visa sponsoring support will not be provided. Note: We encourage applications from persons with disabilities and are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience for all candidates. A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities. Safeguarding Statement The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children. If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email askhr@britishcouncil.org