Programme Coordinator, Arts, China

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.

Pay Band: 4
Contract Type: Indefinite
Location:  Guangzhou, China
Right to work: As we cannot sponsor work passes, applicants must already have the right to live and work in China.
Closing Date: Monday, 5 October 2026 - 23:59 China time (GMT+08)

Role Purpose & Accountabilities 
Join our Cultural Engagement team as a Programme Support Officer, helping deliver arts programmes and projects that create meaningful impact. Based within the British Council’s Cultural Engagement Strategic Business Unit, this role supports the planning, coordination and delivery of globally led programmes across arts, education, English and research.

You will provide administrative, operational and financial support, including diary management for the Director Arts, travel and logistics coordination, preparation of briefings and correspondence, and liaison with internal and external stakeholders. You will help manage budgets, monitor expenditure, maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with British Council policies and procedures.

The role also involves project administration, data management, reporting, grants and procurement support, event and training logistics, and maintaining high-quality project documentation. You will work closely with vendors, suppliers, partners and colleagues to ensure smooth delivery against deadlines and corporate standards.

We are looking for someone who can work independently, manage multiple priorities, and contribute to an inclusive, anti-racist culture. Experience supporting project delivery, handling financial administration and working with stakeholders is essential. At the British Council, you will help deliver programmes with purpose, professionalism and impact.

Qualifications & Experience:
Essential
•    The British Council systems and global processes operate in English. Written and verbal proficiency in English is required at level B2 
•    Undergraduate degree or equivalent relevant experience 
•    Experience of working in a supporting role on programmes or projects. 
•    Administrative, document management and financial administration experience. 
•    Good understanding of basic concepts of monitoring and evaluation, and how they are central to good project management. 
•    Knowledge of, or demonstrable interest in, the arts and cultural sectors in China and the UK. 
Desirable
•    Able to manage delivery of digital events on basic platforms (Microsoft Teams) and face to face events ensuring all corporate standards are met, including those for accessibility and safeguarding 
•    Working knowledge of British Council SAP system (or similar software) 
•    Experience of supporting arts, cultural or international exchange programmes involving artists, cultural organisations or creative professionals. 

Benefits: 
•    22 days of Annual Leave 
•    13th Month Salary 
•    Non-consolidated bonus 
•    Comprehensive health and insurance package – includes accidental insurance, life insurance, and supplementary medical coverage 
•    Social insurance & housing fund - Coverage under national social insurance and housing fund 
•    Professional development - Ongoing learning and career growth opportunities to support your development.

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