Film programmer

Closing date for applications: 22 October 2025

Salary: £35,640 - £41,763 per annum

Contract type: Permanent, full-time, 41 hours per week

Interviews: First interviews will be held on Friday 31 October 2025 and second interviews will be held on Friday 7 November 2025

Are you passionate about film and championing under-represented voices? This is a fantastic opportunity to shape an inspiring film programme that celebrates diverse stories and perspectives.

The British Film Institute (BFI) is a cultural charity, a National Lottery distributor, and the UK’s lead organisation for film and the moving image. We believe society needs stories. Film, television and the moving image bring them to life, helping us connect and understand each other better. We share the stories of yesterday, search for the stories of today, and shape the stories of tomorrow. We are seeking an experienced film programmer to work with the venue’s programming team to develop and deliver a bold, inclusive and imaginative film programme at BFI Southbank that inspires existing audiences, attracts new ones, and champions diverse voices and stories.


Responsibilities

• Under the guidance and direction of the head of cinemas programme and lead programmer, work collaboratively with programming and production colleagues to shape a dynamic and inclusive Southbank programme that attracts new and existing audiences and highlights and celebrates diverse voices.
• Write engaging, audience-focused copy for the monthly brochure, BFI Player, BFI London Film Festival and other programme areas, bringing the programme’s vision and stories to life.
• Host selected events as and when required with warmth and professionalism, representing and promoting the BFI on stage and sharing its vision and mission with our audiences.

Knowledge, skills & experience

• Significant experience in film and events programming gained within a cinema, arts venue, festival, or cultural organisation
• A strong knowledge of film history, contemporary cinema and audience trends, with the ability to curate programmes that engage and grow diverse audiences
• A proven track record of developing and delivering inclusive programming that champions under-represented voices and diverse perspectives
• A strong collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across teams and with external partners to deliver ambitious programmes

A full list of responsibilities and minimum requirements can be found in the job description.


Benefits

• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) + bank holidays + the option to buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave
• Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year
• BFI pension scheme with 5% employer contribution
• BFI Childcare Scheme, where we contribute to childcare costs for children up to the age of 14
• Enhanced pay for Maternity & Paternity leave
• Complimentary tickets to BFI Southbank & IMAX screenings and events
• Free BFI Player subscription + discount on BFI DVDs, books, merchandise, and film tickets

Plus many more, which can be found in our Working at the BFI information pack on our website.

Depending on the volume of applications, you may be asked to complete a small task or attend a pre-interview screening call to further to assist the hiring team in shortlisting for this role. In this instance, interview dates may be subject to change. Further details about the role, the BFI and our benefits can be obtained by visiting our website via the 'Apply' button.


We support diversity and inclusion, and as an organisation recognise that we need to address under-representation within our teams. As such we strongly welcome and encourage applicants from our under-represented groups; who identify as D/deaf and disabled and/or are Black and Global Majority. We guarantee a first interview to our under-represented groups who meet our minimum requirements.

Please state in your application that you found this opportunity through Creative Access.