The duties of the cultural programming officer

The main mission of the cultural programming officer is to define the content of cultural productions according to the objectives to be met and the target audience. To do so, they use mediation tools to offer activities with an educational or informative aim. This cultural professional is therefore responsible for contacting artists (singers, dancers, comedians, painters, etc.), gallery owners, or museum directors who may provide artworks to be shown to the public. In the course of the job, the programming officer, also called a booker, handles scheduling, but also the budget, artists' fees, and monitoring that the organized events run smoothly.

Become a programming officer

The Skills Required to Become a Cultural Programming Officer

The programming officer profession requires certain particular skills, notably a well-developed sense of planning, organization and coordination. Knowledge of art history or musicology, depending on the place of work, is also necessary. Candidates wishing to become a programming officer must also have a sense of listening and communication. Indeed, they will have to speak in front of different types of audiences.

What program should you choose to become a cultural programming officer?

Programs Offered by IESA arts&culture

Several programs are available for those who want to become a Programming Officer. IESA’s Bachelors let students master cultural communication strategy. This Bac+3 program also teaches them to set up a communication plan and a strategy for seeking sponsorship and partnerships. Students can choose between visual arts and exhibitions, theater and music, or film and audiovisual. They develop their skills in the organization, management, marketing, communication and mediation of cultural projects. In addition, students learn to work in a team to ensure the success of the cultural or artistic events they organize.

In Which Fields Does a Cultural Programming Officer Work?

In a large organization, they make programming proposals to production administrators, whereas in a smaller organization, the cultural programming officer has more autonomy and decision-making power. They can work in a concert hall or within an association.

What Career Progression Is There for a Cultural Programming Officer?

With experience, this professional can become a scheduling coordinator or scheduling director.