Vacancy: Communications Manager

Vacancy: Communications Manager
Join Rib as Communications Manager
(freelance, project based)


About Rib
Rib is a dynamic platform for contemporary art, creative exchange, and social engagement. We collaborate with artists, cultural partners, communities, and audiences to create exhibitions, events, and programs that inspire dialogue, experimentation, and connection.
One of Rib’s flagship initiatives is Het Zuid Manifest, an annual contemporary art festival that takes place each spring in Rotterdam South, in 2027 from 13 to 16 May. The festival transforms public spaces, neighborhoods, and unexpected locations into platforms for artistic intervention, dialogue, and community engagement.
Through exhibitions, site-specific installations, performances, workshops, and public programs, Het Zuid Manifest brings together local residents, artists, cultural organizations, and visitors to explore urgent social, cultural, and urban themes. The festival reflects Rib’s commitment to making contemporary art accessible, relevant, and deeply connected to the communities in which it takes place.
As Communications Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the visibility and public impact of Het Zuid Manifest, developing engaging narratives and campaigns that connect diverse audiences with the festival’s artistic vision and activities and amplify the impact of our artistic and community-driven programs.
Are you passionate about contemporary art, culture, and storytelling? Do you enjoy turning ideas into compelling narratives and connecting diverse audiences with meaningful experiences? Then we would love to hear from you.


The Role
As Communications Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing Rib Art Space’s communication and marketing strategy. You will create engaging content, manage media relations, oversee digital communications, and support audience development initiatives.
Your working hours wil vary and should be divided according to the working schedule in the festival script. The amount of hours will increase in the months approaching the festival date.
You will work closely with the managing Director, artistic director, curator, community manager, artists and partners, to ensure that our activities are communicated effectively and consistently across all channels.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications
Implement the communication and marketing strategy aligned with the organization's goals.
Create annual communication plans and campaign strategies.

Monitor performance, analyze results, and optimize communication activities.
Safeguard and further develop the Rib Art Space brand identity.

Content & Storytelling
Create engaging content for newsletters, website, social media, festival app, festival guide, press materials, and promotional publications.
Write and edit texts related to exhibitions, projects, and events.
Translate artistic concepts into accessible stories for a broad audience.
Coordinate visual and multimedia content production.

Digital Marketing
Manage and grow Rib Art Space’s digital presence.
Plan and execute social media and online marketing campaigns.
Maintain website content and ensure timely updates.
Monitor audience engagement and digital analytics.

Media & Public Relations
Build and maintain relationships with media, journalists, and cultural influencers.
Prepare press releases, media kits, and communication materials.
Generate visibility for exhibitions, public programs, and organizational initiatives.
Coordinate media attendance and coverage during events.

Community & Partnership Engagement
Support communication with artists, partners, funders, and stakeholders.
Ensure visibility for partners and sponsors across communication channels.
Set up a crowdfunding campaign.

Who You Are
You are a proactive communicator who combines strategic thinking with practical execution. You enjoy working in a creative environment and can manage multiple projects while maintaining high-quality standards. You are flexible in your working hours.

Qualifications
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Communications, Marketing, PR, Arts Management, Journalism, or a related field.
Minimum of 1-3 years of relevant professional experience.
Experience within the arts, culture, nonprofit, or creative sector is a strong advantage.
A relevant (broad) network in Rotterdam/the Netherlands
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and preferably also in Dutch.
Strong social media and digital marketing expertise.
Experience with website management and email marketing platforms.
Experience with setting up of crowdfunding campaigns is an advantage
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Passion for contemporary art and culture.

What We Offer
A meaningful role within an ambitious and innovative contemporary art space.
The opportunity to shape the public profile of Rib Art Space.
A collaborative and inspiring working environment.
Space for initiative, creativity, and professional development.
A freelance fee based on the guidelines and pay scale of De Zaak Nu depending on experience and qualifications.
Flexible working arrangements where possible.

How to Apply
Are you excited about helping us tell our story and connect more people with contemporary art?
Please send your CV and motivation letter to the festival manager of Rib, at monica@ribrib.nl with the subject line:
Application – Communications Manager

The deadline for applications is 2 October 2026. You will start in this role on 1 December 2026. You will work project based with 280-325 hours to divide over the first year - with a concentration around the months december 2026 till June 2027.
Rib Art Space is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.