Programme Director- IP-Switched; Creative People and Places

Full‑time, fixed term until March 2029 (with potential extension)

• First round interviews will be held on Tuesday 27 th January 2026
• Second round on Friday 30 th January 2026 in person at the New Wolsey Theatre.

£47,830 per annum

IP‑Switched is a new Creative People and Places (CPP) programme funded by Arts Council England, designed to increase participation in arts and culture across Ipswich, particularly among communities least likely to engage. As Programme Director, you will lead this ambitious initiative, working with residents, artists and partners to co‑create a programme that builds pride, opportunity and connection.

You will establish and manage a new delivery team, oversee a £1m+ budget, and embed co‑creation, care and inclusion at every level. From the initial “Cups of Tea” listening phase to large‑scale festivals, you will ensure that creativity becomes central to everyday life in Ipswich. The role combines strategic leadership, fundraising, action research, evaluation, and hands-on delivery, while representing Ipswich nationally through CPP networks.

We are seeking a visionary leader with a strong sense of social purpose and a proven track record of co‑creating with communities. You may be an experienced cultural leader or ready to step into your first Director role. Essential qualities include:

• Minimum three years’ management experience in arts, culture or community organisations.
• Experience working with underserved or marginalised communities.
• Strong project management, fundraising and financial management skills.
• Knowledge of evaluation methodologies and action research.
• Excellent communication, partnership‑building and leadership skills.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Knowledge of Ipswich’s cultural landscape and familiarity with Arts Council England frameworks are desirable.

Full‑time, fixed term until March 2029 (with potential extension), working 40 hours per week, typically Monday
- Friday.

We’d love applications from people of all backgrounds, especially from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds, those who identify as D/deaf and disabled people, neurodivergent people, members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. We are up for exploring support and development needs and will make reasonable adjustments to enable applicants to participate in the selection process, and for the successful applicant to carry out their role.

If you need us to make any adjustments to allow you to fully participate, would like an informal and confidential discussion about the position, or if you would like the candidate pack in a different format please contact Lucy Parker

The Final date to receive applications is 9am, Monday 12 th January 2026.

First round interviews will be held on Tuesday 27 th January 2026 with a second round on Friday 30 th January 2026 in person at the New Wolsey Theatre.

We will reimburse reasonable travel expenses for candidates to attend an interview.

To apply, please send:

• Your CV (with two referees)
• A cover statement (maximum two sides of A4 or a 2-minute video) outlining your interest in the role and how your experience and passions align with the job description and person specification.