Learning Initiatives Manager

The Learning Manager is a key member of the 421 team, responsible for delivering the 421 Arts Campus Plan and five-year vision through the design, management, and growth of the overall learning offer. This role ensures that the program thrives within set budgets and targets while advancing 421’s mission of serving audiences from early years through lifelong learners, including K- 12, families, university students, creative professionals and People of Determination.

The Learning Manager will oversee a year-round calendar of workshops, professional development programs, and informal learning opportunities, ensuring quality, sustainability, and accessibility. They will work closely with the Communications team to design and implement effective campaigns that promote the learning offer, evaluate the impact of all marketing activities, and drive meaningful engagement with stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities  

Business Strategy & Marketing

• Act as a key team member in delivering the 421 Arts Campus Plan and five-year vision.
• Manage the overall learning offer to ensure it thrives, grows, and remains financially sustainable within approved budgets and targets.
• Design, deliver, and oversee a diverse year-round program of workshops, informal learning opportunities, and professional development initiatives that serve early years learners, students, families, creative professionals, People of Determination, and lifelong learners.
• Work closely with the Communications team to develop and implement impactful campaigns that promote the learning program, while evaluating marketing results to strengthen stakeholder engagement.
• Build and nurture partnerships with universities, businesses, and cultural organizations to position 421 as a leading learning resource and expand awareness of its offerings across the wider community.
• Create strategies, methods, and procedures to significantly grow and manage the learning database, deepening engagement with current and potential audiences.
• Ensure the accuracy, consistency, and relevance of all content related to learning programs across promotional, digital, and communication platforms.
• Collect, monitor, and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data (using tools such as Qualtrics) to assess program outcomes, measure impact, and inform continuous improvement.

Program Delivery

• Coordinate the delivery of onsite and offsite sessions for schools, and universities, with the support of interns and coordinators, ensuring high-quality and relevant experiences that meet audience and booker needs.
• Provide training and development opportunities for ushers, reception, and security staff as part of their professional growth.
• Strategically design and implement interpretive learning tools in response to temporary exhibitions to enhance visitor access and engagement.
• Plan and coordinate seasonal activities in collaboration with the Public Program team to grow and engage family audiences.
• Deliver introductory talks for visiting groups to support meaningful learning experiences.
• Develop and deliver the Professional Development Program, tailored for educators and young audiences interested in pursuing a career in the Arts.
• Drive the growth of the learning program in line with targets and funding requirements.

Other Responsibilities

• Recruit, train, and coordinate a team of Learning Interns to support program delivery, communications, and research activities.
• Evaluate the outcomes of all learning initiatives against an agreed evaluation plan and implement improvements where necessary.
• Ensure all learning initiatives reflect the diversity of local audiences.
• Support and contribute to reporting requirements on mid year and annual reporting.
• Monitor and report on audience engagement, income, and outcomes from learning activities.

Required Skills & Qualifications  

• Master’s degree in education, museum studies, arts management, or related fields.  
• 5+ years of experience in educational programming, events management, or community engagement, preferably within the arts or cultural sectors.  
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.  
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling and engaging diverse audiences.  
• Proven experience in budget management and administrative oversight.  
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as required.  
• Innovative thinker with a deep interest in contemporary art and educational methodologies.  
• Proficiency in both Arabic and English, written and spoken.  

Preferred Qualifications  

• Experience in educational programming in the UAE or within the region.  
• Familiarity with vendor and event logistics coordination.  
• Active involvement in the local arts or educational community is highly desirable.