At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the planning and delivery of exciting cinema programmes and events.
- Company: Join the ICA, a leading arts organisation in London.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in film programming and coordination.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for professional growth in the arts sector.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant film community and engage with diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in film coordination and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The ICA cinema programme is a core part of the Artistic Programme, providing a context for discovery, debate and sustained engagement with film and moving image culture. The Assistant Curator, Cinema supports the Curator, Cinema in the planning, delivery and coordination of ICA Cinema’s programme, including Off-Circuit and Long Takes, a proportionate programme of new releases, and partnership-led programmes with guest curators and external organisations. This is a delivery-focused role with clear development potential. The post-holder will build increasing responsibility in curatorial authorship, rights negotiation, stakeholder management, partnership delivery, and commissioning and editing texts.
Responsibilities
- Partnerships and stakeholder support: Support delivery of the ICA Cinema programme, partnership-led programmes and guest-curated projects, including scheduling, communications coordination, materials, guest liaison and on-the-ground delivery. Support stakeholder relationships through clear coordination, communication and delivery, escalating issues appropriately. Attend occasional events representing ICA Cinema and its programme, including partnership activities and sector events as required.
- Audience, guest and filmmaker experience: Support the delivery of a consistently high-quality audience, guest and filmmaker experience through clear briefings, hospitality coordination, timings and front-of-house liaison. Support introductions and Q&As as agreed, contributing to a confident and welcoming public programme tone.
- Programme coordination and delivery: Coordinate the delivery of screenings and events across the cinemas, acting as the main point of contact between Front of House, Projection, the Cinema team and external partners. Coordinate weekly operational processes including holdovers, scheduling, and cross-team communication, supporting effective Spektrix and Artifax workflows. Track film materials, poster deliveries and technical requirements in collaboration with Projection and Comms, helping ensure the programme is presented to a high standard. Maintain website film pages, ensuring listings are accurate, up to date and complete, and coordinating corrections quickly when needed. Coordinate the cinema on-sale process, including inputting screenings into Spektrix and ensuring website information is accurate and complete. Support the communications workflow by drafting, editing and coordinating copy as agreed, and monitoring online communications related to the film programme. Create and coordinate promotional assets as required (for example cinema holding slides, trailers and social media assets), working to agreed templates and brand standards.
- Reporting, administration and finance processes: Generate reporting on programme performance, including per-event attendance and ticketing performance, supporting evidence-based planning. Process invoices and manage box office returns to distributors, ensuring accuracy, timely completion and appropriate documentation. Maintain accurate records of fees, guarantees and settlements, escalating issues and discrepancies as required.
- ICA Cinema Distribution: Support ICA CINEMA Distribution activity on a day-to-day basis as agreed, including coordination of bookings and materials, delivery requirements, reporting and administration, under the strategic oversight of the Curator, Cinema.
About You
- Experience working with film and cinema, including programme coordination and delivery, festival programming and/or film distribution support.
- Strong knowledge of film and cinema, with a strong interest in non-fiction cinema and marginal film histories.
- Experience coordinating complex activity across multiple stakeholders, with the ability to prioritise and meet conflicting deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a professional, positive and collaborative working style.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to draft and edit copy.
- Strong IT skills and competency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Availability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as appropriate.
- Ability to take initiative and work independently, with sound judgement about when to elevate decisions.
- Proven interest and awareness of the ICA’s wider programme.
- Experience working within an institutional arts context.
- Familiarity with relevant cinema systems and workflows, including Moss and Zero, Spektrix and Artifax (or equivalent).
Assistant Curator, Cinema (Programming, Coordination and Delivery) employer: Box
The ICA is an exceptional employer for those passionate about film and the arts, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. As an Assistant Curator in Cinema, you will have the opportunity to engage with diverse stakeholders, contribute to innovative programming, and develop your curatorial skills in a supportive environment. Located in London, the ICA provides unique access to a dynamic arts scene, ensuring meaningful professional growth and a rewarding experience in the heart of the cultural capital.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Curator, Cinema (Programming, Coordination and Delivery)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend film events, screenings, and industry meet-ups to connect with people in the cinema world. Don’t be shy—introduce yourself and chat about your passion for film and the role you're after.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience in programme coordination and delivery. Include any projects you've worked on, especially those related to film and cinema, to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Reach out to the ICA directly through our website. Express your enthusiasm for the Assistant Curator role and ask if you can chat with someone about the position. It shows initiative and genuine interest!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated! Follow cinema trends and news, especially around non-fiction cinema and marginal film histories. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also in conversations with industry professionals.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator, Cinema (Programming, Coordination and Delivery)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cinema:When writing your application, let your love for film and cinema shine through! Share specific examples of your experiences with programming or coordinating film events. We want to see how your enthusiasm aligns with our mission at ICA.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Assistant Curator role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their background to what we do at ICA.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We value effective communication, so show us you can convey your ideas simply and effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Know Your Cinema
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of film and cinema, especially non-fiction and marginal film histories. Familiarise yourself with the ICA's past programmes and current trends in cinema to show your genuine interest and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Coordination Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in coordinating complex activities across multiple stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've managed conflicting deadlines and ensured smooth communication in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to draft and edit a few pieces of copy beforehand to demonstrate your writing skills if asked.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
This role requires flexibility in working hours, so be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to work evenings and weekends. Highlight any previous experiences where you successfully adapted to changing schedules or demands.
