Cinema Coordinator

Cinema Coordinator, Hayy Cinema

About us

Art Jameel supports artists and creative communities. The organisation’s programmes foster the role of the arts in building open, connected communities; at a time of flux and dramatic societal shifts, this role is understood as more crucial than ever. Jameel Arts Centre, an innovative contemporary institution in Dubai, UAE, opened on November 11, 2018; Hayy Jameel, a major complex for the creative industries in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, launched on December 6, 2021. Art Jameel’s model is collaborative: major institutional partners include Delfina Foundation, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Locally, the organisation works with individuals and organisations to develop innovative programming that embraces both ancient and new technologies and encourages entrepreneurship and the development of cultural networks. Art Jameel is positioned alongside Community Jameel, and complements its sister organisation’s work in promoting positive social change, job creation and poverty alleviation across the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.

A major component of Hayy Jameel is its central cinema complex Hayy Cinema (Inaugurated in December 2022), designed to be a leading picture house for Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on international independent cinema, Arab (including Saudi) filmmaking, documentaries and film events. Hayy Cinema also includes a specialised library and screening rooms. The objective of Hayy Cinema is to provide a platform for Saudi filmmakers to research, learn, produce and show their films and for audiences to experience high quality regional and international independent film.

Job Description                                                                                                                           

As a Cinema Coordinator, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations and activities of the cinema. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all patrons, from ticket sales to concession services working in coordination with our ‘Visitor Experience/Audience department. You will also be responsible for coordinating film screenings schedules and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment in coordination with our Operations Department. This role requires excellent organizational and customer service skills, as well as a passion for film and cinema.

In addition, the Cinema Coordinator will assist the Senior Manager in curating and selecting films to be screened at the cinema. Your role will involve researching and identifying films that align with the cinema’s target audience and programming strategy. You will collaborate with distributors, filmmakers, and other industry professionals to secure the rights to screen films. Additionally, you will be involved in creating and managing the cinema’s film schedule, organizing special events, and the overall programming strategy. This role requires a deep knowledge and passion for film, strong organizational skills, and an understanding of audience preferences.

Accountability

Reports to Zohra Ait El Jamar, Hayy Cinema Senior Manager

Cinema coordinator primly responsibilities: Project and programme planning

• Coordinate the day-to-day cinema programme across the cinema department or cross-departmental.
• Assist in researching and identifying new and emerging filmmakers, films, and trends in the industry.
• Collaborate with distributors and filmmakers to secure the rights to screen films, negotiate terms, and manage licensing agreements.
• Assist with the cinema’s film schedule, ensuring a diverse and engaging program that appeals to the target audience.
• Coordinate special events, film festivals, and themed screenings, collaborating with relevant stakeholders and managing logistics.
• Stay updated on industry news, film releases, and audience trends to inform programming decisions.
• Work closely with the Audience team to promote upcoming films and events, developing effective strategies to attract and engage audiences.
• Assist in monitoring and analysing audience feedback and attendance data to evaluate the success of programming choices and develop alternative creative solutions as necessary.
• Collaborate with the cinema management team to develop and implement strategies for audience development and growth.

Secondary duties: Hosting, Ushering, Retail

• Welcoming and guiding guests in a friendly manner (good command of Arabic and English).

• Selling, checking and scanning tickets, checking I.D. cards against film certification, and directing guests to their seats.
• Operating a cash register and Cinema Management software (training provided).
• At the end of shift completing the Daily Sales Report (DSR), ensuring all cash handling and securing requirements are met.

• Distributing programs, brochures, and other materials; ensuring the proper preparation and display of merchandise.

Cinema Coordinator requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of 3-years’ experience in programming/project planning or similar preferred.
• Previous experience in film programming or a related field is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge and passion for film, with a strong understanding of different genres, filmmakers, and industry trends.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to identify and evaluate films that align with the Hayy Cinema programming strategy.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with distributors and filmmakers.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Creative thinking and a keen eye for selecting films that will resonate with the target audience.
• Familiarity with film distribution processes and licensing agreements.
• Proficiency in using scheduling software and tools to manage film schedules.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and adapt to changing priorities.
• Consistent professional and neat presentation and friendly demeanour.
• Command of Arabic and English.
• The ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Highly organized and attentive to detail.
• The ability to manage crowds and remain calm in stressful situations.
• Comfortable with numbers and accounting skills.
• Ease use of POS software.
• Aware of the e-invoicing system requirements as per ZATCA regulations.
• The ability to generate daily sales and cash movement reports.
• Willingness to work on weekends and public holidays.

Conditions of Work

• This is a full-time position based in Jeddah, KSA.
• Weekend and evening work according to events and programmes is as required. Usually starting in the afternoon and continuing until late-night screenings.

Benefits include

• Full health & dental insurance
• Visa sponsorship
• 25 days annual leave

Deadline to apply

• October 17, 2023

Starting date

•         Immediate