Studio Manager

Studio Manager

The Portland Inn Project CIC Closing date: Mon, 18 May 2026

Artform: Combined arts
Role: Technical & Production
Contract: Permanent
West Midlands

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

We are passionate about the impact of arts and culture in community development and we’re looking for a Studio Manager who shares our passion for people-led change. This is an exciting opportunity to be a key part of our dynamic organisation where your work directly impact our local community.

Job Description

The Studio Manager leads the day-to-day running, development and delivery of the creative studio and workshop provision at The Portland Inn Project (PIP), with a particular focus on clay and ceramics.

As the studio is currently in development as part of a wider capital project, a key focus of the role in its initial phase will be to support the set-up of the space - establishing systems, processes and working practices that enable its safe, efficient and sustainable long-term operation.

The role ensures that studio-based activity is high quality, well-managed and accessible, supporting both community engagement and the organisation's wider artistic and social ambitions. It is responsible for managing the studio/workshop space and supporting the delivery of activity within it.

Reporting to the Directors, the Studio Manager will work especially closely with the Programme Manager, as well as the Operations Manager, Finance & Compliance Manager and wider PIP team and local community members, contributing to programme development, operational delivery and financial oversight. While each role has distinct responsibilities, there is an expectation of close collaboration and flexibility, with the team supporting one another where needed to ensure the effective delivery of the overall programme.

The role is also public-facing, building partnerships, supporting participants and representing the organisation's work.

The Portland Inn Project is committed to delivering high-quality, locally responsive art and culture, and this role plays a key part in ensuring that studio activity is accessible, relevant and impactful for the community and beyond.
We are passionate about the impact of arts and culture in community development, and we're looking for a Studio Manager who shares our passion for people-led change.

This is an exciting opportunity to be a key part of a growing and dynamic organisation, where your work will directly impact our local community.

Job Requirements

Essential Skills & Experience:
> Strong hands-on experience in ceramics, including kiln use
> Experience delivering creative and/or community-based programmes
> Excellent organisational and communication skills
> Experience working collaboratively with diverse groups and partners
> Ability to manage multiple priorities in a responsive environment
> Experience managing budgets and project delivery
> Commitment to community-led practice and inclusive engagement

Desirable Skills & Experience :
> Experience managing a public-facing studio or workshop space
> Knowledge of Stoke-on-Trent's cultural context
> Experience with social enterprise or product development
> Experience with marketing and/or social media
> Experience working with public sector, cultural or community partners

Working Pattern: 3 days per week (Tuesday-Saturday). The applicant must be able to work regular Tuesdays, and 2 Saturdays per month.

Job Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Studio & Programme Delivery:

> Lead the delivery of studio-based activity, with a focus on clay and ceramics
> Manage the studio/workshop space, ensuring it is safe, well-equipped and effectively organised
> Support the delivery of the wider programme in collaboration with the Programme Manager
> Contribute to the design and development of projects in response to local needs, working closely with the Directors
> Support resident and visiting artists, facilitators and participants working within the studio space
> Lead on studio-based workshops and activity that support skills development and creative engagement
> Contribute to the curation, planning and delivery of the year-round programme
> Support the development of partnerships with local organisations, education providers and creative professionals

For the comprehensive list of responsibilities, please click to the link for Job Description.

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Studio Manager
  • Salary: £25k-£30k (pro-rata)
  • Hours: Part time
  • Artform: Combined arts
  • Role: Technical & Production
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Mon, 18 May 2026
  • Location:
    West Midlands
    | view on Google Maps

Job: Studio Manager

Job: Studio Manager

Organisation: The Portland Inn Project CIC

Postcode: ST1 5HZ

How to Apply

Please send a CV and details of two references, along with (max 1000 words) details of how you match the job specification and why you would like to work with The Portland Inn Project.

Email this in one PDF to [email protected] with the heading STUDIO MANAGER