The Institute is seeking an Interim Arts & Society Programme Director

For more than 30 years, the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland has been fostering impactful connections between Finland, the UK, and Ireland. As the leading expert on Finnish arts and culture in our region, we empower cross-sectoral exchange and build long-term cooperation. Our work is based on creativity, equity and sustainability.

We are a trusted partner bringing together artists, researchers, decision makers and communities for thought-leading dialogue — establishing Finland's creative practice as vital to shaping the future. The Institute is situated in Somerset House, London.

We are looking for an Interim Arts & Society Programme Director, Fixed-Term
We are seeking a colleague to join our team at the Institute for a fixed-term cover starting this autumn. You will be executing the Institute’s long term programme plan and deepening our programme partnerships within the UK, Ireland and Finland.

Your work includes

• Programme leadership. Continue and lead the Institute's Arts and Society programme in line with our programme plan and strategic goals, working closely with the Director, Head of Communications and Development and Administration & Project Manager.
• Partnerships and networks. Build and sustain relationships with programme partners and networks across Finland, the UK and Ireland.
• Cultural expertise. Track relevant international developments in the programme areas and share insights with the team and stakeholders.
• Resources and funding. Manage programme budgeting and financial reporting. Identify and support applications for external funding.
• Team and communications. Contribute to the Institute's communications and cross-team projects, and supervise and support the professional development of trainees.

We require

• Experience in international cultural exchange and in developing multidisciplinary programmes at the intersection of the arts and society
• Knowledge of the arts and cultural sector in the UK, Ireland and/or Finland, with a track record of building partnerships
• An independent, proactive approach, with the ability to quickly take ownership of an ongoing programme and deliver the Institute's long-term programme plan
• Experience in project and budget management
• Excellent command of English
• The right to work in the UK
• Proficiency in Finnish and/or Swedish is desirable but not essential.

We offer
The Arts & Society Programme Director cover is recruited on a temporary contract of at least 6 months, with an option to extend the contract, subject to agreement. The position is full-time, with part-time arrangements possible upon agreement. We offer a creative, inspiring working environment with competitive benefits. The salary is 3700GBP / month, with public transport, healthcare and other benefits in addition.

To apply
Submit your application, including:

• A motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
• Your CV
• Contact details for two professional references

Send your application by August 12th noon (UK time) to
recruitment@fininst.uk

The position starts October 2026 or as agreed separately.

The Finnish Institute operates as part of Finland's network of Cultural and Academic Institutes and is a member of EUNIC (European Union National Institutes for Culture). We promote an inclusive and anti-racist work culture and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

More information
Director Aleksi Malmberg
Email: aleksi.malmberg@fininst.uk
Phone: +447711004801
Available for calls: Tuesday 4.8. 12-12:45; Thursday 6.8. 15-15:45 (UK time)