Community Outreach Coordinator – esea contemporary in Manchester

esea contemporary is a contemporary art space based in Manchester, UK, dedicated to presenting and supporting experimental and international contemporary art practices. Formerly known as the Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art (CFCCA), the organization has evolved into esea contemporary, reflecting a broader commitment to East and Southeast Asian (ESEA) perspectives while creating space for diverse artistic voices and cultural exchange.

Located in Manchester city centre, esea contemporary operates as a gallery, cultural platform, and community-focused organization that supports exhibitions, artist development, public programmes, and creative engagement. Through exhibitions, commissions, residencies, talks, workshops, and community projects, the organization works to connect artists and audiences while encouraging dialogue around contemporary social, cultural, and political themes.

The organization places strong emphasis on accessibility, participation, and creating meaningful relationships between contemporary art and communities. Its programmes aim to reach audiences beyond traditional gallery spaces by collaborating with local organizations, community groups, and alternative venues.

esea contemporary is seeking a Community Outreach Coordinator to support the development and delivery of a new community-focused programme across Salford, Trafford, and Stockport in Greater Manchester. The role focuses on increasing access to contemporary art by bringing creative activities closer to communities that may face barriers to attending cultural events in Manchester city centre.

The successful candidate will research and identify potential community partners, establish meaningful relationships, understand local needs, and help shape a programme responding to the interests and contexts of different communities. The position combines strategic outreach, relationship-building, event coordination, programme development, and practical delivery. The coordinator will work independently in the field while collaborating with esea contemporary’s internal team, artists, and creative practitioners.

This opportunity is suited to someone passionate about community engagement, contemporary art, cultural participation, and collaborative approaches to creative programming.

• Position: Community Outreach Coordinator
• Contract Duration: Until 31 March 2028, with possibility of extension
• Working Hours: Approximately 2–3 days per week, depending on availability
• Reporting To: Director
• Start Date: September 2026 or as soon as possible
• Location: Field-based across Salford, Trafford, and Stockport, with regular check-ins at esea contemporary, Manchester
• Application Deadline: 12 August 2026, 12 pm
• Interview Dates: 18–19 August 2026

The role is designed to accommodate applicants who may already have freelance practices or other professional commitments. Esea Contemporary is open to discussing flexible working arrangements with the successful candidate.

• Developing and delivering a new community outreach programme across Salford, Trafford, and Stockport.
• Researching local communities, organizations, venues, and potential partners.
• Building sustainable relationships with community groups and stakeholders.
• Understanding local interests, needs, and barriers to cultural participation.
• Supporting the creation of accessible contemporary art activities outside traditional gallery settings.
• Working with artists and creative practitioners to develop community-focused projects.
• Planning and coordinating events, workshops, and engagement activities.
• Managing practical aspects of programme delivery.
• Representing esea contemporary within local communities.
• Collaborating with the gallery team on programme development and evaluation.
• Working independently while maintaining regular communication with the Director and wider team.

The successful applicant should be able to approach community work with openness, sensitivity, curiosity, and a willingness to listen and collaborate.

• Arts professionals
• Community engagement practitioners
• Cultural producers
• Artists with experience in participatory projects
• Creative practitioners interested in public-facing work

• Ability to build trusting relationships with diverse communities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively.
• Interest in contemporary art and creative participation.
• Ability to organize and deliver events or activities.
• Capacity for independent field-based working.

The role does not require applicants to be based within Manchester city centre but requires regular travel across Salford, Trafford, and Stockport.

A paid part-time employment position with esea contemporary. Salary of £30,000 per annum pro rata. Opportunity to work with a leading contemporary art organization in Manchester. Professional development through collaboration with artists, creative practitioners, and arts professionals. Opportunity to expand networks within the UK contemporary art sector. Experience in public engagement, partnership development, and cultural programming. Flexible working arrangements compatible with freelance or professional commitments.

Esea Contemporary is also recruiting volunteers to support its exhibitions and public programmes. Volunteering opportunities provide participants with first-hand experience in a contemporary art environment, opportunities to work with an experienced gallery team, networking opportunities within the arts sector, development of professional and personal skills, and experience supporting exhibitions and cultural activities.

Volunteer recruitment takes place on a rolling basis. Individuals interested in future collaborations with esea contemporary are also encouraged to contact the organization with their CV and a description of their proposed collaboration ideas.