Film Programmer

Film Programmer — British Film Institute (BFI)

Join to apply for the Film Programmer role at British Film Institute (BFI).

This range is provided by British Film Institute (BFI). Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

Permanent Contract

We are seeking an experienced Film Programmer to work with the venue’s programming team to develop and deliver a bold, inclusive and imaginative film programme at BFI Southbank that inspires existing audiences, attracts new ones, and champions diverse voices and stories.

Key responsibilities include:

• Under the guidance and direction of the Head of Cinemas Programme and Lead Programmer, work collaboratively with programming and production colleagues to shape a dynamic and inclusive Southbank programme that attracts new and existing audiences and highlights and celebrates diverse voices.
• Write engaging, audience-focused copy for the monthly brochure, BFI Player, BFI London Film Festival and other programme areas, bringing the programme’s vision and stories to life.
• Host selected events as and when required with warmth and professionalism, representing and promoting the BFI on stage and sharing its vision and mission with our audiences.

We are looking for candidates who have:

• Significant experience in film and events programming gained within a cinema, arts venue, festival or cultural organisation.
• A strong knowledge of film history, contemporary cinema and audience trends, with the ability to curate programmes that engage and grow diverse audiences.
• A proven track record of developing and delivering inclusive programming that champions under-represented voices and diverse perspectives
• A strong collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across teams and with external partners to deliver ambitious programmes.

A full list of responsibilities and minimum requirements can be found in the job description.

About the BFI

We are a cultural charity, a National Lottery distributor, and the UK’s lead organisation for film and the moving image. We believe society needs stories. Film, television and the moving image bring them to life, helping us connect and understand each other better. We share the stories of yesterday, search for the stories of today, and shape the stories of tomorrow.

• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) + bank holidays + the option to buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave
• Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year
• BFI pension scheme with 5% employer contribution
• BFI Childcare Scheme, where we contribute to childcare costs for children up to the age of 14
• Enhanced pay for Maternity & Paternity leave
• Complimentary tickets to BFI Southbank & IMAX screenings and events
• Free BFI Player subscription + discount on BFI DVDs, books, merchandise, and film tickets

Plus many more, which can be found in our Working at the BFI information pack on our website.

We support diversity and inclusion, and as an organisation recognise that we need to address under representation within our teams. We strongly welcome and encourage applicants from our under-represented groups; who identify as D/deaf and disabled and/or are Black and Global Majority. We guarantee a first interview to our under-represented groups who meet our minimum requirements.

Further details about the role, the BFI and our benefits can be obtained by visiting www.bfi.org.uk/about-bfi/job-opportunities.

Depending on the volume of applications, you may be asked to complete a small task or attend a pre-interview screening call to assist the hiring team in shortlisting for this role. In this instance, interview dates may be subject to change.

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Wednesday, 22 October 2025

First interviews will be held on Friday, 31 October 2025

Second interviews will be held on Friday, 07 November 2025

Seniority level

• Not Applicable

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Art/Creative
• Industries: Movies, Videos, and Sound