Cultural Cooperation Advisor & Cultural Center Director

About the role

The French Embassy in India is seeking a senior professional to design and implement long‑term Franco‑Indian cooperation in culture, education and science. The role combines strategic advisory duties to the Ambassador with the operational management of the Institut Français in India and a network of Alliances Françaises, schools and research units.

Key responsibilities

• Advise the Ambassador on cultural, educational and scientific cooperation and influence strategies.
• Design, coordinate and monitor cooperation programmes across the entire portfolio (education, science, culture).
• Lead the Institut Français in India, including the Centre for Human Sciences, ensuring scientific independence.
• Oversee a network of 15 Alliances Françaises, the largest worldwide in terms of activity hours.
• Define and steer the strategic communication plan for the network.
• Supervise French schools in India and implement a three‑year development plan with AEFE.
• Manage the French Institute of Pondicherry, the Centre for Human Sciences and the CEFIPRA.
• Maintain strong relationships with a dense network of French and Indian partners.
• Identify co‑funding opportunities and increase the institution’s own resources.
• Organise flagship events such as the “Bonjour India” festival and Knowledge Summits.
• Represent the institution at conferences, seminars and event inaugurations.

Required profile

• Doctorate, agrégation or degree from a prestigious French grande école.
• Extensive experience in managing large cultural, educational or scientific programmes.
• Proven leadership and budgetary management skills.
• Fluency in French and English; knowledge of Hindi is an asset.
• Strong diplomatic and networking abilities.

Required skills