Arts administrator

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become an arts officer or manager.

You could also take on freelance work or become a consultant.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• business management skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of the fine arts
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• leadership skills
• excellent written communication skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Business - Arts administrators manage budgets, organise ticket sales, recruit staff, and handle the day-to-day running of arts venues. Understanding business management, financial planning, and organisational skills is central to keeping museums, galleries, and theatres operating smoothly.
• Art and Design - Arts administrators need a genuine knowledge of and passion for the visual arts, as they work closely with artists, curate exhibitions, and promote creative events. Understanding different art forms and movements helps them make informed decisions about programming and communicating with audiences.
• English Language - Arts administrators write press releases, promotional content, funding applications, and social media posts to attract audiences and secure support. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for everything from drafting contracts to presenting ideas to stakeholders.

Also relevant

• Drama - Arts administrators often work in theatres, booking performers and organising productions. Understanding how performances are created – from rehearsal processes to staging – helps them coordinate effectively with directors, actors, and technical teams.
• Music - Arts administrators frequently book musicians and organise concerts or live performances as part of their programming. Having an understanding of different musical genres and the practicalities of live performance helps when planning events and working with artists.
• Accounting - Arts administrators manage venue budgets, track ticket revenue, handle funding grants, and keep detailed financial records. Being comfortable with accounts and financial reporting helps ensure that arts organisations remain financially sustainable.
• History - Arts administrators working in museums and galleries often deal with historical collections and exhibitions. Understanding historical periods and contexts helps them interpret collections, write informative materials, and engage meaningfully with curators and visitors.