Programme & Projects Manager at CPB Foundation in Chennai, India

Organisation: CPB Foundation / Chennai Photo Biennale
Location: Chennai, India
Salary: ₹40,000–₹50,000 per month, depending on experience
Contract: Full-time, 12-month position, extendable based on performance
Working arrangement: In-office
Start date: Immediate
Application deadline: Rolling applications until the position is filled

CPB Foundation is seeking a Programme & Projects Manager to coordinate a portfolio of photography and public-facing programmes, supporting their development and delivery throughout the year.

Based in Chennai, CPB Foundation is an arts organisation working across photography, public culture, education and experimentation. Its activities include the Chennai Photo Biennale, CPB Prism, CPB Darkroom, artist residencies, exhibitions, open calls, publications and collaborations with cultural institutions in India and internationally.

The successful candidate will work across several initiatives, ensuring that project timelines, communications, budgets, documentation and logistics are effectively managed.

Key Responsibilities

The Programme & Projects Manager will coordinate four main initiatives:

• CPB International Photography Open Call: Manage applications, coordinate jurors, communicate with shortlisted photographers and support artist agreements and documentation.
• CPB Lens Residency: Coordinate residency cycles, including artist communication, travel, accommodation, materials, mentorship and public presentations.
• CPB Collectables: Support the production and presentation of photographic editions, including artwork management, contracts, inventory, sales documentation and participation in art fairs.
• CPB Public Programmes & Collaborations: Coordinate workshops, talks, demonstrations and artist-led activities, overseeing schedules, registrations, facilitators and event logistics.

Across these programmes, the successful candidate will develop project plans, track budgets and expenses, coordinate with artists and external partners, manage documentation and support the delivery of exhibitions, residencies and events.

Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Approximately 2–5 years of relevant experience in arts and culture, galleries, festivals, artist residencies, art fairs, events or project management.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Tamil.
• Experience managing budgets, invoices, spreadsheets and project documentation.
• Confidence working with artists, cultural partners, vendors and other stakeholders.
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team.
• An interest in photography, contemporary art and public culture.

Previous experience in photography is advantageous but not essential.

Working Conditions

The position offers opportunities to work closely with artists, photographers and cultural institutions across international photography programmes, residencies, public events and art fairs.

The role is based in Chennai and requires in-person attendance. Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary during exhibitions, residencies and events, with working schedules adjusted accordingly.

Application deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Image: Courtesy of CPB Foundation.