Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the programming of exciting events and curate diverse music experiences.
- Company: Join Colour Factory, a vibrant independent music and arts venue in London.
- Benefits: Shape the cultural scene while enjoying a creative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on London's music culture and support emerging talent.
- Qualifications: Experience in programming and a passion for contemporary music.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for creative collaboration and growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Colour Factory is one of London’s most forward-thinking independent music and arts venues. We champion diverse programming, cutting edge electronic music, forward thinking live music, and community driven culture across multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. Our mission is to support emerging talent, celebrate underground scenes, and create a platform where artistic expression, experimentation, and accessibility can thrive.
The Head of Programming is responsible for developing and delivering Colour Factory’s year round programme across club nights, live shows, one off events, and collaborative projects. You will shape the cultural direction of the venue, build meaningful relationships with artists, agents, promoters, and partners, and ensure that every booking reflects Colour Factory’s values of inclusivity, creativity, and cutting edge sound.
This is a senior role suited to someone with a deep understanding of contemporary electronic music and live music, strong industry relationships, and an instinct for programming events that resonate with a wide range of audiences.
Programming and Curation- Develop and execute a coherent, innovative programming strategy aligned with the venue’s artistic vision
- Curate club nights, live gigs, cultural events, takeovers, and special projects across all venue spaces
- Actively scout emerging talent, labels, collectives, and scenes to keep the programme fresh and culturally relevant
- Ensure programming reflects Colour Factory’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and community representation
- Build and maintain strong relationships with agents, managers, promoters, labels, and creative partners
- Negotiate offers, fees, and event terms to secure high quality talent while meeting budget targets
- Act as a key point of contact for artists and teams, ensuring smooth communication and a positive experience onsite
- Work closely with production, marketing, and operations to deliver seamless events
- Oversee event scheduling, diary management, and contracting
- Provide creative direction on event themes, special projects, and collaborative concepts
- Attend key events to understand audience dynamics and maintain presence within the culture
- Manage programming budgets, artist fees, and revenue forecasting
- Work confidently with P&L sheets, cost planning, and programme wide financial control
- Analyse event performance and adapt strategies to maximise cultural impact and financial returns
- Ensure all internal systems and documentation remain accurate and up to date
- Collaborate closely with booking, marketing, production, and operations teams
- Offer guidance to junior bookers or programming support staff where relevant
- Contribute to long term planning, brand development, and community initiatives
- Significant booking or programming experience within a venue, festival, promoter, or similar cultural institution
- Strong understanding of contemporary electronic music and live music
- Proven track record of curating successful events across electronic, underground, and contemporary music scenes
- Strong network of artist, agent, and promoter relationships within the UK and internationally
- Excellent negotiation, P&L handling, budgeting, and organisational skills
- Deep awareness of cultural trends, emerging movements, and audience behaviour
- Ability to work in a fast paced environment with evening and weekend flexibility
- Confident communicator who works well across teams
- Familiarity with London’s nightlife ecosystem
- Experience developing new event concepts and collaborative projects
- Ability to support and develop junior programming staff
Why Join Colour Factory
- Opportunity to shape the direction of one of London’s most respected independent venues
- Work in a creative environment where new ideas are encouraged
- Build a programme that reflects the next wave of artists, communities, and cultural movements
- Contribute to a venue that values cultural impact, inclusivity, and artistic development
Head of Programming in London employer: Colour Factory London
Contact Detail:
Colour Factory London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programming in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, gigs, and festivals to meet people in the scene. Building relationships with artists, agents, and promoters can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for programming! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas for innovative events or emerging talent you’re excited about. Let them see your vision for the venue!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about following up! After meeting someone or having an interview, drop them a message to thank them and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in Colour Factory. Make sure to highlight your unique experiences and how they align with our mission of inclusivity and creativity.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programming in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music: When writing your application, let your love for contemporary electronic and live music shine through. Share your experiences and how they align with Colour Factory's mission to support emerging talent and celebrate underground scenes.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Programming role. Highlight your relevant experience in programming, curating events, and building relationships within the industry to show us you’re the perfect fit.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and skills, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great addition to the Colour Factory team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This way, we can ensure your application is reviewed promptly and you’ll be one step closer to joining our vibrant community at Colour Factory!
How to prepare for a job interview at Colour Factory London
✨Know Your Music Scene
Make sure you’re up to speed with the latest trends in contemporary electronic and live music. Research emerging artists, labels, and collectives that align with Colour Factory’s mission. This will show your passion and understanding of the cultural landscape.
✨Showcase Your Programming Strategy
Prepare to discuss your vision for the venue's programming. Think about how you would curate events that reflect inclusivity and creativity. Bring examples of past successful events you've programmed and how they resonated with diverse audiences.
✨Build Relationships on the Spot
Demonstrate your relationship-building skills during the interview. Be ready to talk about how you’ve successfully collaborated with artists, agents, and promoters in the past. Highlight your negotiation skills and how you ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
✨Be Financially Savvy
Brush up on your budgeting and P&L knowledge. Be prepared to discuss how you manage programming budgets and forecast revenue. Showing that you can balance creativity with financial responsibility will set you apart as a strong candidate.
