Head of Programming

Head of Programming – Colour Factory (London)

Location: Hackney Wick, London

Role Type: Full time

Reports to: Founder

Start Date: ASAP

About Colour Factory

Colour Factory is one of London's most forward-thinking independent music and arts venues. We champion diverse programming, cutting edge electronic music, forward thinking live music, and community driven culture across multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. Our mission is to support emerging talent, celebrate underground scenes, and create a platform where artistic expression, experimentation, and accessibility can thrive.

Role Overview

The Head of Programming is responsible for developing and delivering Colour Factory's year round programme across club nights, live shows, one off events, and collaborative projects. You will shape the cultural direction of the venue, build meaningful relationships with artists, agents, promoters, and partners, and ensure that every booking reflects Colour Factory's values of inclusivity, creativity, and cutting edge sound.

This is a senior role suited to someone with a deep understanding of contemporary electronic music and live music, strong industry relationships, and an instinct for programming events that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

Programming and Curation

• Develop and execute a coherent, innovative programming strategy aligned with the venue's artistic vision
• Curate club nights, live gigs, cultural events, takeovers, and special projects across all venue spaces
• Actively scout emerging talent, labels, collectives, and scenes to keep the programme fresh and culturally relevant
• Ensure programming reflects Colour Factory's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and community representation

Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with agents, managers, promoters, labels, and creative partners
• Negotiate offers, fees, and event terms to secure high quality talent while meeting budget targets
• Act as a key point of contact for artists and teams, ensuring smooth communication and a positive experience onsite

Event Development and Delivery

• Work closely with production, marketing, and operations to deliver seamless events
• Oversee event scheduling, diary management, and contracting
• Provide creative direction on event themes, special projects, and collaborative concepts
• Attend key events to understand audience dynamics and maintain presence within the culture

Finance and Administration

• Manage programming budgets, artist fees, and revenue forecasting
• Work confidently with P&L sheets, cost planning, and programme wide financial control
• Analyse event performance and adapt strategies to maximise cultural impact and financial returns
• Ensure all internal systems and documentation remain accurate and up to date

Leadership and Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with booking, marketing, production, and operations teams
• Offer guidance to junior bookers or programming support staff where relevant
• Contribute to long term planning, brand development, and community initiatives

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Significant booking or programming experience within a venue, festival, promoter, or similar cultural institution
• Strong understanding of contemporary electronic music and live music
• Proven track record of curating successful events across electronic, underground, and contemporary music scenes
• Strong network of artist, agent, and promoter relationships within the UK and internationally
• Excellent negotiation, P&L handling, budgeting, and organisational skills
• Deep awareness of cultural trends, emerging movements, and audience behaviour
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment with evening and weekend flexibility
• Confident communicator who works well across teams

Desirable

• Experience programming 1000 cap venues
• Familiarity with London's nightlife ecosystem
• Experience developing new event concepts and collaborative projects
• Ability to support and develop junior programming staff

Why Join Colour Factory

• Opportunity to shape the direction of one of London's most respected independent venues
• Work in a creative environment where new ideas are encouraged
• Build a programme that reflects the next wave of artists, communities, and cultural movements
• Contribute to a venue that values cultural impact, inclusivity, and artistic development

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £40,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexitime

Work Location: In person