At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead access initiatives for Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent artists in outdoor arts.
- Company: Inclusive arts organisation dedicated to dismantling barriers and promoting diversity.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time role with a competitive salary and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to creating accessible opportunities in the arts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by empowering DDN artists and advocating for inclusive practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in access advocacy, mentoring, and a passion for inclusive arts.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 € per year.
We are looking for a Development Producer (Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent Focus) to join our team.
Key Responsibilities
- To act as the Without Wall access‑lead, dismantling structural barriers for DDN artists, implementing anti‑ableism practices, and providing specialist guidance to embed access into the creative fabric of outdoor arts.
- Artist Development
- Help DDN artists understand and navigate the commissioning and touring landscape, building their confidence and capacity as outdoor arts practitioners.
- Ensure Without Walls’ opportunities are communicated in ways that are genuinely accessible and welcoming to DDN artists.
- Provide application advice and mentoring specifically tailored to the needs of DDN artists, removing barriers to participation in Without Walls programmes.
- Carry out bespoke 1‑to‑1 consultations with Without Walls supported artists, providing tailored advice and recommendations for creatively embedding access into their specific projects.
- Support artists in creating robust Access Riders and in engaging with festival partners about their access requirements.
- Programme Selection
- Support the delivery of selection panels across Blueprint and Creation and Touring commissioning strands, acting as an advocate for inclusive practice.
- Support the development of selection frameworks that accommodate non‑traditional applications and allow DDN artists to present their work in the most appropriate way.
- Flag concerns or patterns where selection processes may be creating structural barriers, and propose solutions.
- Training and Advocacy
- Co‑lead the delivery of the Discover and Associate programmes, alongside the Development Producer (Global Majority Focus), ensuring access‑first design is embedded throughout.
- Contribute to evaluation across both programmes, identifying patterns, barriers and recommendations for improvement.
- Plan and deliver bespoke access and inclusion training sessions for Without Walls artists and festival partners, drawing on current best practice and lived experience.
- Work alongside the Head of Programme and other colleagues to refresh and distribute Anti‑Ableism action plans across the network.
- Contribute to the organisation’s reporting on access and inclusion activity, including governance and funding reports.
- Attend and contribute to meetings of the Without Walls Diversity and Inclusion Action Group.
Essential Skills & Experience
We don’t necessarily expect applicants to tick every box below. Lived experience and a genuine commitment to change matter as much as formal credentials. Successful applicants are likely to have experience or knowledge in the following areas:
- Proven knowledge of, and commitment to, access, accessibility and inclusive practice, with specific expertise relating to Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent artists and audiences.
- Personal lived experience of disability or neurodivergence is welcomed.
- An understanding of the outdoor arts sector in England, including its commissioning structures, festivals and development pathways. This might be from a practice, production or development background.
- Experience of providing professional access advice, consultancy or mentoring to artists or creative organisations, ideally within a live events or outdoor arts context.
- Experience of planning and delivering training sessions on access or inclusion, whether for individual practitioners or organisations.
- Experience of supporting artists — whether through mentoring, producing, advice‑giving or programme delivery.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with artists, partners and colleagues across a range of contexts, including formal and informal settings.
- The ability to manage your own time, priorities and workload effectively in a part‑time, independent role.
Job Description
Duration: Permanent
Salary range: £6,400 (FTE £32,000)
Hours of work: Part‑time, 1 day a week (0.2 FTE)
Based: Hybrid. If Manchester‑based or close to Manchester, desk space can be provided. Some in‑person attendance at Without Walls activities will be required, including festivals, meetings and network events.
Reports to: Head of Programme
Development Producer (Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent Focus) in Manchester employer: Without Walls
Without Walls is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodivergent artists. Our commitment to dismantling barriers and implementing anti-ableism practices creates a supportive work culture where employees can thrive and grow professionally. With tailored mentoring and training opportunities, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact in the outdoor arts sector, all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model based in Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Producer (Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent Focus) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the outdoor arts scene. Attend events, workshops, and festivals to meet DDN artists and industry professionals. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that Development Producer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for access and inclusion! When chatting with potential employers, share your experiences and ideas on how to dismantle barriers for DDN artists. This will demonstrate your commitment and make you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about asking for feedback! If you get the chance to meet with hiring managers or industry peers, ask them for insights on your approach to access and inclusion. This not only shows your willingness to learn but also helps you refine your skills for future opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and support tailored for DDN artists. By applying directly, you’ll be tapping into a community that values your unique perspective and can help you navigate the commissioning landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Producer (Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent Focus) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your passion for access and inclusion, so don’t hold back on sharing your lived experiences and how they shape your perspective.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges faced by DDN artists, so show us how you can make a difference!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of the outdoor arts sector and the commissioning landscape. We want to know how you can help DDN artists navigate these spaces, so include any relevant experiences or insights you have.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Without Walls
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the principles of access and inclusion, especially as they relate to Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodivergent artists. Brush up on current best practices and be ready to discuss how you can implement these in your role.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your genuine commitment to dismantling barriers shine through. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your dedication to creating inclusive spaces for DDN artists. This will resonate with the interviewers and show them you’re the right fit.
✨Prepare Real Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully supported artists or implemented access practices. Whether it’s mentoring, providing consultancy, or delivering training, having concrete examples will demonstrate your capability and experience.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation's mission. Inquire about their current initiatives in access and inclusion, or ask how they measure the success of their programmes. This shows you’re engaged and genuinely interested in contributing.
