Deputy Director Arts
Institution: British Council, Beijing, China
Deadline: November 13, 2025, 20:59 UK Time
Employment Details: 1-year fixed-term contract, renewable; full-time
Location: Beijing, China
The British Council seeks a Deputy Director Arts to support the delivery of its arts strategy in China and to deputise for the Director Arts as required. The role involves strategic leadership, programme management, business development, and coordination of the arts portfolio, ensuring alignment with the British Council’s global standards. The postholder will oversee project plans, budgeting, financial management, reporting, and risk monitoring, while strengthening partnerships between UK and Chinese cultural sectors.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and technical oversight of arts programmes and partnerships in China
- Manage relationships with senior stakeholders and cultural sector partners
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and risk management for projects
- Support programme design, monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL)
- Facilitate communication and translation for senior engagements
- Deputise for Director Arts, supporting team capability, delivery, and professional development
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within programme and organisational practices
Eligibility Criteria
- Foundation-level project management qualification or relevant CPD experience
- Experience managing multi-country or large in-country programmes, including project closure and audits
- Experience in client, partner, and contract management
- Strong understanding of risk management and MEL principles
- Leadership experience and ability to manage dispersed teams
- Knowledge of the Chinese cultural and policy landscape
- Legal right to work in China (no visa sponsorship provided)
