The International Theatre Institute ITI, the world’s largest performing arts organization founded in 1948 by theatre and dance experts and UNESCO, strives for a society in which performing arts and their artists thrive and flourish. ITI advances UNESCO’s goals of mutual understanding and peace and advocates for the protection and promotion of cultural expressions, regardless of age, gender, creed or ethnicity. It works to created platforms for international exchange and collaboration, and for engagement in education for the performing arts, for beginners and professionals alike, as well as using the performing arts for mutual understanding and peace.

ITI was created on the initiative of the first UNESCO Director General, Sir Julian Huxley, and the playwright and novelist, JB Priestly in 1948. ITI has been the A- Category partner NGO of the UNESCO since 1962. In 1996, ITI became one of the few formal associate partners of UNESCO. The headquarters of ITI was relocated from UNESCO Paris to Shanghai in November 2015.

ITI has now developed into the world’s largest organization for the performing arts, with more than 70 Centres and around 30 partner organizations and cooperating members spread across all the continents.

Job Profile:

The International Theatre Institute (ITI), the world's largest performing arts organization, invites applications for a Senior Operations Manager to join the General Secretariat in Shanghai. This is not just an administrative role: it is a chance to help shape a global home for artists, working in the spirit of generosity, resilience, and creative collaboration. The selected candidate will take a leading role in implementing ITI's mission and supporting its international network.

Job Details:

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Who We are Looking For

We seek someone who combines strategic ability with artistic sensibility: a leader who can navigate complexity with clarity, work under pressure with grace, and inspire trust across cultures.

The right person will:

• Understand the power of theatre and the arts to connect people across borders.

• Value generosity over competition, and creativity over ego.

• Work with empathy, listening deeply to colleagues and partners.

• Adapt to changing circumstances with flexibility and imagination.

• Stay steady and focused under stress, without losing the human touch.

Key Responsibilities

Under the guidance of the Director General, you will:

• Coordinate major ITI programmes, such as World Theatre Day, International Dance Day, ITI Congresses, regional meetings, and artistic collaborations.

• Support the strategic and administrative work of the General Secretariat, including project planning, reporting, and internal coordination.

• Maintain active communication with ITI Centres, Committees, and partners worldwide.

• Represent ITI in meetings, events, and collaborations as delegated.

• Shape and adapt projects so they reflect both ITI's mission and the realities of our global network.

Qualifications and Skills

• Master’s degree (or higher) in cultural management, arts administration, international relations, public/non-profit management, performing arts, or a related field. A doctoral degree is an additional asset.

• Significant experience in cultural management, international arts projects, or NGO leadership.

• Deep understanding of the performing arts sector and cultural policy.

• Proven ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders across time zones.

• Excellent communication in English (fluency required) and at least two other working languages from: French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or other widely used languages.

• Intercultural competence, diplomatic sensitivity, and ethical leadership.

• Ability to stay composed and solution-focused under pressure

• Creativity and flexibility in responding to challenges and opportunities.

Benefit:

Growth and Probation

The position will begin with a three-month probation period, after which the appointment continues on a two-year contract. Remuneration will be aligned with the candidate's experience and with international NGO standards. The post is based at ITI Headquarters in Shanghai, with international travel expected.

The Senior Operations Manager is a distinct position in its own right. Yet, after 12 to 18 months of dedicated service, and subject to performance, organizational priorities, and mutual agreement, the role may evolve into Deputy Director General. While not automatic, the position is intentionally shaped so that it can grow into this higher responsibility for the right candidate.

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