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- Tasks: Lead and improve operational processes for Arts Council England's capital investment programmes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Arts Council, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a final salary pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while shaping strategic capital investments.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in project management and team leadership.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 50468 - 50468 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent, working 35 hours per week. Arts Council recognises the benefit of flexible working and welcomes applications from individuals who require flexibility.
Salary: £50,468 per annum plus benefits, including a final salary pension scheme, generous annual leave, and flexible and hybrid working.
Location: Manchester, Cambridge, Bristol or Brighton. The role will be based in any of the locations listed; the position is hybrid with remote working options supported in combination with regular on-site contact days (normally 1–2 days a week).
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Capital Team as Senior Manager, Operations in a permanent role. We are seeking an experienced and motivated leader to help deliver Arts Council England’s capital investment programmes. In this senior role, you will streamline and improve operational processes, coordinate workflows, oversee performance, assurance and risk management, and ensure effective delivery across multiple capital programmes.
As a member of the Capital Senior Management Team, you will shape the strategic approach to capital investment, champion effective systems and processes, and represent the organisation at a senior level. You will lead and develop a team of Senior Officers, collaborate with colleagues across the organisation, and build strong relationships with internal and external partners.
We’re looking for someone with strong programme or project management experience, excellent communication and stakeholder skills, confidence working within governance and assurance frameworks, and a track record of leading teams and driving process improvement. If you have senior-level experience leading the operational delivery of multiple projects or programmes, including experience in risk management and business assurance activities, we’d love to hear from you.
Arts Council is committed to being an inclusive employer, building an inclusive workplace, and recruiting a workforce that is as diverse as the communities we serve. If you identify as a person from an under-represented group or bring any background, we welcome you to apply. If you need adjustments to support your application, please let us know when you apply. We participate in the 'Offer an Interview' scheme, offering an interview to eligible disabled or neurodivergent candidates who meet the essential criteria.
Arts Council offers a range of benefits to employees, including hybrid and flexible working, a generous annual leave allowance and the Arts Council Retirement Plan – a final salary scheme. Our Code of Ethics requires that employees of the Arts Council cannot receive an Arts Council grant, investment or loan funding, or hold board or CEO positions in organisations we fund.
Job ref: COO76
Closing date: 09:00am, 14 April 2026
1st Interview: virtual, 27 and 28 April 2026
2nd Interview: virtual, 06 and 07 May 2026
Please note: We do NOT accept CVs or cover letters as part of our recruitment process. If you require documentation in an alternative format, please contact recruitment@artscouncil.org.uk.
Senior Manager, Operations (COO76) in Manchester employer: ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND.
Contact Detail:
ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Operations (COO76) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the arts sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about roles that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Arts Council's recent projects and initiatives. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals will show you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a mate to do mock interviews with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when it’s time to shine in front of the real interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the organisation there.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager, Operations (COO76) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Showcase Your Experience: When filling out the application, highlight your relevant experience in operations and project management. We’re keen on seeing how you've led teams and improved processes, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Be Yourself: We love authenticity! Let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for the arts and how you can contribute to our mission at Arts Council. We want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND.
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Arts Council's capital investment programmes. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and understand how your experience in operations can enhance their processes. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to driving process improvements and fostering collaboration.
✨Master the Art of Communication
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to discuss how you've engaged with stakeholders and navigated governance frameworks in previous roles.
✨Embrace Flexibility
Since the role offers hybrid working options, be prepared to discuss how you manage remote teams and maintain productivity. Share your strategies for ensuring effective communication and workflow coordination, especially in a flexible work environment.