Programs Manager, Institute Contemporary Art

Programs Manager, Institute for Contemporary Art University Overview

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Programs Manager, Institute for Contemporary Art

Coordinator B

The Institute of Contemporary Art is seeking a Programs Manager. This full-time position will manage all aspects of routine to complex projects for the Public Engagement & Research Department, collaborate with key internal and external stakeholders, and manage vital administrative functions, ensuring the effective and efficient operation of the department. They will serve as a key liaison collaborating across departments and with external partners, ensuring efficient and effective operation of the ICA's public engagement & research initiatives, managing vital administrative functions, and serving as the project manager for all programmatic activities.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team shaping public engagement at one of the nation's leading contemporary art institutions. The Public Engagement & Research Department designs and implements a multidisciplinary platform for public programs, interpretive initiatives, community partnerships, and academic engagement at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA). Through lectures, workshops, performances, community programs, and publications, the department advances ICA's mission to be a launchpad for contemporary art and ideas.

Its work deepens audience engagement, fosters research, and strengthens connections across ICA's diverse publics. The position will also assist in the collection and analysis of data related to ICA's in-person and virtual audiences. Together, these efforts expand ICA's role as a civic resource, amplify its research mission, and enhance its impact within the University of Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia community, and more broadly in the field nationally and internationally.

The position reports to ICA's Director of Public Engagement & Research and works with a team of two other full-time staff on ICA's vital connections to the university, and communities in Philadelphia, regionally, nationally, and internationally. The ideal candidate for this position will have strong communication and organizational skills, work well in a team environment, and will have the management acumen and keen eye for detail required for the oversight of key projects and departmental administration.

• Serve as project manager for ICA Department of Public Engagement & Research programs, from early-stage planning to site implementation.
• Lead communications with artists, speakers, collaborators, and production vendors; coordinate logistics; maintain event supplies inventory, supervise contract event staff; and track budgets, benchmarks, and deliverables. Collaborate with Department of Communications and Content on promotion strategy and messaging for events – request website listings, social media posts, booking links, and design assets.
• Coordinate closely with the Audio/Visual Manager, Senior Coordinator for Visitor Services, and other ICA departments to ensure seamless production of programs and events.
• Support alignment of public engagement initiatives with exhibition, communications, and institutional goals.
• Manage the administrative operations of the Public Engagement Department, including scheduling, correspondence, travel arrangements, contracting, invoicing, and partnership documentation.
• Maintain efficient workflows and records that support the department's strategic priorities.
• Develop reports and documentation to inform institutional planning and measure program impact.
• Assist in…