Backlit Building and Operations Manager

Company Description BACKLIT was founded in 2008 by Nottingham graduates as an artist-led space, BACKLIT is an independent, charity, not-for-profit, LGBTQ+, female, and neurodivergent-led cultural hub. BACKLIT purchased Alfred House, our home in January 2025. Within this historic Victorian building (est. 1872), our gallery spans four floors and includes creative studios that are home to over 100 artists, collectives, and associate members. During 2026 we have undertaken some significant expansion works to the ground level with a new gallery, dedicated learning space, archive and café. We expect this to be launched later this year. In addition, we have been working to make our building more environmental with new energy efficient systems installed and improved access with new accessible toilet facilities. Our year-round, programme of exhibitions, events, and workshops offers an essential platform for the public, local communities, students, and creatives of all ages and backgrounds to engage, learn, and grow. Between 2022 and 2028, our key areas of focus include expanding our support around mental health, equality, diversity and inclusion, the environment, and digital innovation in the arts sector. We aim to provide a welcoming space for all. Role Description JOB TITLE: BUILDING & OPERATIONS MANAGER The Building & Operations Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient and well-maintained operation of BACKLIT's Alfred House premises, with responsibility for overseeing the day-to-day operation of the new ground-floor public facility. The role will coordinate planned and reactive maintenance, building safety and compliance, contractors, facilities and space management, ensuring that BACKLIT provides a safe, accessible, welcoming and well-functioning environment for artists, staff, visitors, partners and the wider community. The postholder will work closely with the Co-Directors and wider team to ensure the ground floor is operationally ready for exhibitions, events, workshops, archive activity, venue hire and public use, while maintaining an overview of the needs of the wider building. This is a practical and hands-on role requiring strong organisation, problem-solving skills and the ability to work confidently with contractors, suppliers, staff, artists and members of the public. The role will identify maintenance and operational issues, coordinate appropriate responses, maintain accurate records and ensure that statutory inspections, servicing and compliance requirements are kept up to date. Full details of the role and how to apply can be located here: https://backlit.org.uk/whats-on/job-opportunity-building-operations-manager Location: BACKLIT Gallery, Nottingham Hours: 28 hours per week, usually Tuesday to Friday with occasional weekend work Salary: £30,000 FTE, pro rata (£24,000 actual salary) Contract: Fixed term until March 2028 Application deadline: Midnight, Monday 26 October 2026 Interviews: Friday 13 November 2026