Programme Manager Arts Western Balkans

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

Deliver impactful Arts programmes that foster creativity, cultural exchange, and sector growth through the global Arts portfolio. Build and manage strategic partnerships, collaborate across international networks, and support high-quality programme delivery that creates meaningful cultural impact and strengthens connections across the global arts community.

Role Accountabilities

Sector/Subject Expertise

• Applying local arts sector insight to deliver impactful Arts programmes.
• Identifying opportunities for collaboration between UK and in-country arts sectors.

Leadership & Management

• Providing specialist input to ensure relevant and high-quality programme delivery.
• Managing Arts activities while embedding EDI and anti-racist practices.

Strategy and/or Planning

• Supporting country arts portfolio planning and strategic alignment.
• Using digital approaches to enhance impact and sustainability.

Relationship & Stakeholders

• Building strong relationships across the arts and cultural sectors.
• Maintaining diverse networks to strengthen collaboration and insight.

Brand and Market Positioning

• Promoting the UK arts and creative industries sector.
• Showcasing programme impact and the British Council’s value proposition.

Programme Management

• Managing finances, contracts, procurement, grants and reporting.
• Delivering project plans and ensuring accountability for agreed outcomes.

Qualifications

Education

• Degree and/or equivalent experience

Professional Qualification & Certification

• Project management or equivalent qualification or equivalent work experience

Role Specific Knowledge and Experience

Minimum/Essential

• Knowledge of current trends and practices in at least one arts or creative industries sector within the country.
• Understanding of national arts or creative industry projects.

Desirable

• Understanding of current arts trends and practices in the UK.
• Understanding of international arts projects.

Important Information:

Language Requirement: Written and verbal proficiency in Albanian and English or proficiency in one of the Western Balkans languages is desirable
Pay Band: 6
Country/Location: Albania
Working Arrangement: Hybrid
Contract Type: Indefinite Contract

Closing Date: 08 October 2026 at 11:59 PM IST and 22 October 2026 at 8:29 PM CEST

Background Checks: Employment with the British Council is subject to satisfactory background checks, both before appointment and periodically during employment, as required. The nature and level of checks will depend on the role and applicable local laws.

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.

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