Programs Manager

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
Contract: Full-time
Salary: $55,962–$70,000 per year
Application deadline: Not specified
Reports to: Director of Public Engagement & Research

The Institute of Contemporary Art at the University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Programs Manager to support its Public Engagement & Research Department.

The Programs Manager will oversee projects ranging from routine activities to complex initiatives, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and manage key administrative functions to ensure the department operates effectively.

The Public Engagement & Research Department develops a multidisciplinary platform encompassing public programmes, interpretive initiatives, community partnerships and academic engagement. Through lectures, workshops, performances, community programmes and publications, it advances the ICA’s mission to serve as a launchpad for contemporary art and ideas.

The role will also support the collection and analysis of data relating to the ICA’s in-person and virtual audiences, helping to deepen engagement, foster research and strengthen connections with its various publics.

Responsibilities

The Programs Manager will:

• Manage Public Engagement & Research programmes from initial planning through onsite delivery;
• Lead communications with artists, speakers, collaborators and production vendors;
• Coordinate programme logistics and maintain an inventory of event supplies;
• Supervise contracted event staff;
• Track budgets, benchmarks, deadlines and project deliverables;
• Collaborate with the Communications and Content Department on promotional strategies and event messaging;
• Request website listings, social media content, booking links and design assets;
• Coordinate with the Audio/Visual Manager, Senior Coordinator for Visitor Services and other ICA departments to support the effective production of programmes and events;
• Help align public engagement initiatives with exhibition, communications and institutional objectives;
• Manage departmental administration, including scheduling, correspondence, travel arrangements, contracts, invoices and partnership documentation;
• Maintain workflows and records supporting the department’s strategic priorities;
• Develop reports and documentation to inform institutional planning and evaluate programme impact;
• Assist in developing systems and tools that improve departmental efficiency, accessibility and sustainability;
• Contribute ideas to improve audience experience and expand the ICA’s reach and impact; and
• Undertake other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Applicants should have:

• A bachelor’s degree and two to three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Strong project management skills and close attention to detail;
• Excellent communication, writing, administrative and time-management skills;
• A thoughtful, generous and clear communication style;
• A highly organised, proactive and self-directed approach;
• The ability to work effectively in a collaborative and fast-paced environment;
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines; and
• A demonstrated commitment to supporting a diverse, inclusive and equitable institution.

Familiarity with Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Drive, Eventbrite and project management software would be beneficial.

About the Institute of Contemporary Art

The Institute of Contemporary Art at the University of Pennsylvania presents contemporary art and ideas through exhibitions, public programmes, research, publications and community partnerships.

The Programs Manager will join a team of three full-time members of staff working to strengthen the ICA’s relationships with the University of Pennsylvania and communities in Philadelphia, regionally, nationally and internationally.

Benefits

The University of Pennsylvania offers a benefits package that includes:

• Healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families;
• Retirement benefits;
• Professional development opportunities;
• Work and family support; and
• Health and wellbeing programmes and resources.

A background check may be required following a conditional offer of employment.