The Polish Cultural Institute is offering an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic team as Head of Literature, leading on creating an exciting programme of events and establishing and maintaining relationships with both Polish and UK cultural partners to increase the profile of Polish Literature among English-speaking audiences.

We are looking for someone who is passionate and knowledgeable about Polish Literature to work on a full-time basis.

Ideally you would have a demonstrable interest in Polish literature, culture or heritage and Polish-British relations, a relevant degree, as well as previous experience in a similar role.

Based in London, the Polish Cultural Institute is a public and cultural diplomacy mission, dedicated to showcasing contemporary Polish culture for Britain’s multicultural audience all over the UK, but particularly in London, a leading global cultural capital. Our programme covers visual arts, film, theatre, music, literature, heritage and history.

Role Description:

Expectation: to lead on the commissioning and programming of events around Polish Literature for the Institute

Responsibilities include:

• Identifying and acting on opportunities to promote Polish Literature in the UK,

• Establishing and maintaining relationships with key cultural actors such as literature festivals, book institutes, writing centres around the UK and in Poland

• Dealing with quarterly and annual budgets 

• Being responsible for paperwork such as contracts and invoices related to your projects/events and writing up reports from events

• Working as part of a team, as well as being self-sufficient.

• Writing texts and communicating to a high level of professionalism in Polish and English.

• Attending relevant events, meetings and study visits, including occasional travel within the UK and to Poland

Essential experience and skills:

• Previous experience in the cultural and creative industries or a literature-related role or demonstrable experience of commitment to literature. Degree-level education in a relevant area related to Literature, Humanities, marketing, communication or PR.

• Knowledge of the latest trends in contemporary Polish literature and a keen interest in keeping on top of these trends as well as a good knowledge of classic Polish Literature.

• Excellent communication, multitasking and organisational skills, with attention to detail.

• Interest in arts and culture and heritage, the cultural and creative industries or cultural diplomacy

• Good team work and interpersonal skills,

• Self-starter with an ability to perform to a high standard, at times without direct supervision,

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines,

• Problem-solving skills, resilience and adaptability,

• Excellent command of Microsoft Office software (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook). 

• Positive, friendly and approachable when dealing with a wide range of staff and partners at all levels,

• High proficiency in both English and Polish languages is essential. Excellent copywriting skills in both languages.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV/Resume and Cover Letter detailing your suitability for the role to london.pci@instytutpolski.pl with ‘Head of Literature job application’ in the subject.

Application deadline is the 20^th of November 2024.

Please email us at london.pci@instytutpolski.pl or call 0207 822 8990 if you require any additional information regarding this job offer.