Cinenova Project Assistant
Audio version here
Job description
Contract: Freelance, part-time (2 days per week)
Location: Hybrid (Homerton office / remote working)
Duration: 8 months (approximately)
Fee: £125 per day
Please note: This role cannot be fully remote; some responsibilities require on-site presence in London to work directly with the Cinenova archive and team.
About Cinenova
Cinenova is a volunteer-led organisation preserving and distributing the work of feminist film and video makers. Cinenova was founded in 1991 following the merger of two feminist film and video distributors, Circles and Cinema of Women, each formed in 1979. Cinenova currently distributes over 300 titles that include artists’ moving image, experimental film, narrative feature films, documentary, and educational videos made from the 1910s to the early 2000s. The thematics in these titles include oppositional histories, post and de-colonial struggles, representation of gender, race, sexuality, and other questions of difference, and importantly, the relations and alliances between these different struggles.
Cinenova offers access to an extensive archive and advice relating to moving image work directed by makers who identify as womxn, transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender non-binary. Cinenova is informed by its history as a key resource in the UK independent film distribution sector and internationally.
The Cinenova Working Group, founded in 2010, oversees the ongoing work of preservation and distribution, as well as special projects that seek to question the conditions of the organisation.
The role
We are seeking a Project Assistant to support the delivery of Cinenova’s BFI Screen Heritage National Lottery-funded Digital Access Project. This role will work closely with the Project Manager, Cinenova Coordinator, Trustees, and Cinenova Working Group to help ensure the smooth running of the project, which includes the development of a new digital platform, commissioned writing, and associated public programme.
This role is designed as a learning and development opportunity for someone interested in arts, archives, moving image culture, feminist practice, and project coordination. You do not need prior project management experience – enthusiasm, strong organisational skills, and a willingness to learn are key. Training and mentoring will be provided throughout.
Key responsibilities
Support the Project Manager and Cinenova team with:
- Administrative and organisational tasks
- Scheduling meetings and note-taking
- Supporting communication with freelancers and partners
- Assisting with monitoring project progress and deadlines
- Helping maintain project documentation and records
- Assisting with event and online programme preparation
- Website content and social media
- Supporting research tasks related to the collection and project themes
- Contributing to evaluation and reporting activities
This role will also include opportunities to learn about feminist film and video histories, independent distribution, digital cataloguing, archival practices, and project delivery.
Person specification
Essential
- Strong interest in feminist moving image, archives, arts, or cultural work
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively and remotely
- Familiarity with digital tools
- Commitment to feminist, anti-racist, and inclusive values
- Willingness to learn new skills and take initiative
- Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks
Desirable
-
Experience in administration, volunteering, or working in arts or community projects
- Familiarity with archiving practices
- Interest in accessibility and inclusive practice
- Experience with research or writing
Support & development
This is a supported early-career role. The successful candidate will receive:
- Mentoring from the Project Manager
- Training in project coordination, archive access, and feminist cultural work
- Opportunities to build sector knowledge, networks, and practical skills
How to Apply
Please complete the online application form here.
You will be asked to upload a CV and a one-page cover letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the person specification.
Alternatively, you may upload a short video covering the same information :
Format: MP4, max 5 minutes
Deadline for applications: Thursday 18th December midnight
Interviews: Friday 16th January 2026
Cinenova welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in the arts and heritage sectors. We are committed to creating flexible and supportive working conditions.
Supported by the BFI Screen Heritage Fund, awarding funds from the National Lottery.