The Culture Directorate’s aim is to support and promote growth in the cultural sectors across the country, and to realise and maximise the cultural, social and economic benefits these sectors bring to people in the UK. We are a directorate of about 80 people, working across culture, arts, libraries and the museums sectors.
This role is based within the Arts team. Our aim is to ensure the long
term financial sustainability of our arts and cultural organisations
across the country, and to deliver our Secretary of State’s vision to
make the arts available for everyone.
We are a flexible team and work to ensure the best outcomes for our
sector and deliver on our Secretary of State’s priorities:
- Growth and good jobs in every place
- A more socially cohesive country with an inclusive national story
- Richer lives with choices and opportunities for all
As Policy Adviser, Arts Infrastructure you will oversee major cultural capital investment programmes and projects, ensuring public funding delivers sustainable and impactful cultural infrastructure.
You will manage DCMS oversight of the Cultural Development Fund (CDF), a £93 million place-based capital programme delivered by Arts Council England (ACE), working closely with ACE on project delivery, governance, change requests and ministerial advice.
You will also act as the key policy lead for a range of prominent capital projects, including the Octagon Theatre redevelopment, National Theatre capital upgrade programme, and government funding for the Crucible Theatre.
Additionally, you will support the development of wider arts policy, working across a flexible team and with sector partners to improve access to culture nationwide. You will lead on priorities that adapt over time, offering a dynamic opportunity to work on high-profile and fast-moving policy areas that achieve real-world measurable impacts.
You will belong to a supportive and dynamic team, reporting to the Head of Arts Infrastructure. The role does not have line management responsibilities. This is an exciting opportunity to deliver high profile capital projects and help shape the future of the arts. This role would suit a motivated candidate with a strong track record of delivery and stakeholder management.
Person specification
The ideal candidate would have the following key skills and experience, please note that desirable skills will only be used in the event of tied candidates:
- Delivering at Pace: A strong track record of overseeing complex funds, projects, or delivery programmes, ensuring governance, risk management, and the timely delivery of outcomes in a fast-moving environment.
- Making Effective Decisions: Ability to analyse complex evidence and stakeholder views to provide clear, balanced and evidence-based advice.
- Working Together: Excellent collaborative skills, with the ability to draw on the expertise of colleagues and partners to navigate barriers and deliver shared strategic goals.
- Seeing the Big Picture: Strong understanding of how arts infrastructure investment supports wider government priorities, including growth, place, and skills.
- Understanding of grant delivery
- Knowledge of government business case processes
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Policy Adviser, Arts Infrastructure in Manchester employer: Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport
DCMS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities while contributing to vital initiatives that enhance the UK's cyber resilience and digital landscape. The hybrid working policy allows for flexibility, making it easier to balance your professional and personal life in vibrant locations like London, Manchester, or Darlington.
Contact Details:
Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Recruitment Team
