At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and curate world-class events that inspire and connect diverse audiences.
- Company: Join the RSA, a historic institution driving social change since 1754.
- Benefits: Generous support package, including free RSA Fellowship during employment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming events into unmissable experiences.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in events and strong commercial management skills.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive environment with opportunities for creative collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
London (Hybrid – 3 days/week onsite at RSA House)
Apply by: 25th February 2026 — interviews ongoing
Are you an experienced Head of Events ready for your next challenge? Join the RSA as we embark on the next chapter of our 270-year history of social impact.
The Opportunity
The RSA is the home of ideas, turning possibility into progress since 1754. From pioneering invention and design to shaping social change, we are a place for action and connection, where people drive real change.
The RSA has a long tradition of brilliant events that bring its Fellowship and wider audiences together through ideas, inspiration, and human connection. Now, we want to make them truly world-leading: unmissable, creative, and captivating.
As Head of Events & Programmes, you’ll lead this transformation, curating and delivering an exceptional programme at a historic institution. You’ll play a key leadership role in raising the RSA’s profile, growing a diverse global Fellowship, and strengthening the RSA brand at a pivotal moment.
What you’ll do
- Lead the creative and strategic vision for RSA events and programming that inspire audiences and grow membership.
- Curate and deliver a world-class, culturally relevant events programme with outstanding execution.
- Champion creative excellence, ensuring events reflect the RSA’s mission, values, and voice.
- Lead a high-performing team and collaborate across events, Fellowship, and content to create integrated experiences.
- Oversee budgets, production, and partnerships, acting as a strong ambassador for the RSA.
- Use insight and innovation to evolve programming, increasing reach, impact, and relevance.
A senior, imaginative leader with the focus to deliver world-class events and programming. Culturally curious, with a strong sense of the ideas, movements, and voices shaping audiences today. Well connected, with a strong network of collaborators, creators, and industry partners. A compelling communicator with sharp creative instincts and sound commercial judgement. Passionate about people, culture, and the power of shared experiences to drive change.
Senior leadership experience in events and cultural or artistic programming within a mission-led or high-profile organisation. Proven track record delivering impactful, commercially successful events. Strong commercial and financial management skills, including budgeting and forecasting. Experience leading teams and working cross-functionally. Confidence using CRM systems, data, and insight to inform planning and evaluation. Experience in creative production and/or membership organisations (desirable).
How to Apply
Please submit your application through the RSA website:
- Click “Quick Apply” on our recruitment page
- Upload your CV
- Answer the required application questions (no cover letter needed).
We will review applications and conduct interviews on a rolling basis, so we may close the vacancy early. Early applications are encouraged.
Inclusion at the RSA
As a social change organisation, we believe everyone, regardless of visible or invisible difference should feel welcomed and able to contribute to creating a better future. You can read our full inclusion statement on our website.
We offer a generous and supportive package, including:
- Free RSA Fellowship during employment
Head of Events & Programming employer: The RSA (The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce)
Contact Detail:
The RSA (The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Events & Programming
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the events industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your portfolio ready! Showcase your past events and programming successes in a visually appealing way. This will help you stand out during interviews and give potential employers a taste of your creative flair.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be prepared to talk about your vision for events and how you can elevate the RSA's programming. Tailor your ideas to align with their mission and values, showing that you’re the perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the RSA team and ready to make an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Events & Programming
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for events and programming shine through in your application. We want to see how your passion aligns with the RSA's mission and values, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that matches the job description. We’re looking for a track record of delivering impactful events, so showcase your achievements clearly.
Answer Thoughtfully: When answering the application questions, take your time to reflect on your experiences. We appreciate well-thought-out responses that demonstrate your strategic thinking and creativity.
Apply Early: Since we review applications on a rolling basis, it’s best to get your application in sooner rather than later. Head over to our website and hit that 'Quick Apply' button to get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at The RSA (The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce)
✨Know the RSA Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the RSA's history, mission, and recent events. Understanding their values and how they connect with social change will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Creative Vision
Prepare to discuss your ideas for world-class events that resonate with diverse audiences. Bring examples of past successful events you've led, focusing on creativity and impact, to demonstrate your capability in curating exceptional programmes.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Be ready to talk about your experience leading teams and collaborating across departments. Share specific instances where you’ve fostered a high-performing team and how you’ve integrated various functions to enhance event experiences.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since budgeting and financial management are key aspects of this role, prepare to discuss your experience with budget oversight and forecasting. Use concrete examples to illustrate how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles.