Fédération Européenne des Écoles de Cirque professionnelles (FEDEC) – Comprehensive Career Guide

FAQ SECTION: 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Careers at FEDEC

1. 1. What is FEDEC and what does it do?
   FEDEC (Fédération Européenne des Écoles de Cirque professionnelles) is a Brussels-based European network founded in 1998 that supports the professional development of circus education across Europe and beyond. It connects over 80 member institutions such as vocational and higher circus schools, festivals, artistic training centers, and national federations. Its mission is to strengthen pedagogy, facilitate artistic exchange, and influence cultural policy in the circus arts sector.
2. 2. Where is FEDEC headquartered?
   FEDEC operates primarily from Brussels, Belgium — close to EU cultural and education institutions, including the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education and Culture. The Brussels office acts as an administrative and coordination hub for all European projects and advocacy initiatives.
3. 3. What types of jobs are available at FEDEC?
   Careers at FEDEC span policy and advocacy, project management, communications, membership services, cultural research, education coordination, and administrative support. Roles can range from EU project officers and policy coordinators to digital communications specialists and event managers.
4. 4. Does FEDEC hire creative professionals like artists or performers?
   FEDEC itself is not a performing company but a network organization. It may employ professionals with backgrounds in circus arts or performing arts education, especially for pedagogical coordination, curriculum development, or artistic exchange programs.
5. 5. What qualifications are needed to work at FEDEC?
   Typical candidates possess degrees in cultural management, EU studies, education, arts administration, communications, or performing arts. For project roles, familiarity with EU funding programs (Creative Europe, Erasmus+) and proficiency in English and French are strongly preferred.
6. 6. What languages are required?
   English and French are the main working languages. Additional fluency in another European language (Spanish, German, Italian) is considered a great advantage given the pan-European membership.
7. 7. How competitive is it to get a job at FEDEC?
   Moderately competitive. As a small NGO with limited staff but a strong reputation in EU cultural networks, FEDEC attracts candidates passionate about education and performing arts. Demonstrating both cultural sector expertise and EU project experience greatly increases success chances.
8. 8. What is the typical application timeline?
   From submission to final decision, expect approximately 6 to 10 weeks. Shortlisted candidates are usually invited for one or two interviews — remote or in Brussels — depending on position seniority.
9. 9. What is the working environment like?
   FEDEC values creativity, collaboration, and openness. The environment resembles other small European cultural NGOs: dynamic, multilingual, and internationally connected. Staff engage directly with schools, festivals, and EU institutions.
10. 10. Are internships or volunteer positions available?
    Yes. FEDEC regularly offers internships (usually 3–6 months) focused on project support, communications, or EU policy coordination. These provide excellent entry points into the Brussels cultural sector.
11. 11. What are typical salaries?
    Salaries at FEDEC depend on seniority and project funding cycles. Entry-level project assistants may earn €2,200–€2,600/month gross; mid-level officers €3,000–€3,800; senior coordinators or directors €4,000–€5,500.
12. 12. How can I increase my chances of being hired?
    Highlight experience with EU-funded cultural programs, demonstrate multilingual communication skills, and show commitment to the circus arts or performing arts education field. Attend industry events and network with FEDEC members to stand out.

1. Company Overview & Career Opportunities

Organizational Background:
Founded in 1998, FEDEC emerged from the growing need to create a cohesive European network dedicated to professional circus education. Based in Brussels, its establishment was in response to increasing demand for structured training pathways, shared pedagogical methods, and advocacy for circus arts within EU cultural policy frameworks. Over the years, FEDEC has become the leading voice representing professional circus education in Europe, working closely with EU programs like Erasmus+, Creative Europe, and the European Culture Agenda.

FEDEC acts as a bridge between circus schools, professional organizations, festivals, and national associations. It facilitates bilateral and multilateral exchanges, training programs for students and teachers, and collaborative projects that strengthen artistic and technical education. Its member institutions span from secondary-level schools to higher education programs offering bachelor’s or master’s degrees in circus arts and performance.

As a non-governmental organization, FEDEC functions as both a policy influencer and a professional network. It provides guidelines, organizes seminars, and fosters collaboration among more than 80 members across 25+ countries. Its advocacy extends into EU cultural governance, where it regularly contributes to consultations on creative education, cultural innovation, and youth involvement in the arts.

Current Career Openings and Trends:
Typical openings include roles such as “EU Project Coordinator,” “Membership Relations Officer,” “Communications and Events Officer,” and “Education Development Assistant.” Recent years have seen increased hiring linked to European-funded projects requiring skilled administration, financial management, and cross-network coordination. Digital transformation has also created demand for online education platform managers and digital communication professionals.

Growth Trajectory and Future Hiring Needs:
FEDEC’s growth aligns with EU priorities emphasizing inclusion, creative innovation, and cross-border mobility in education. As the cultural sector’s digitalization expands, FEDEC will likely recruit professionals in digital pedagogy, member engagement technology, and international project management. Expect openings tied to new Erasmus+ partnerships and research into artistic education methodologies.

2. Available Career Paths & Roles

FEDEC’s team structure mirrors other mid-sized European cultural NGOs, divided into functional areas managing advocacy, education, communication, finance, and project coordination.

Job Families/Departments and Roles

1. EU Project Coordination:
   • Entry Requirements: Degree in cultural management or EU studies; strong project administration skills.
   • Responsibilities: Manage Erasmus+ or Creative Europe projects, prepare reports, liaise with partners.
   • Progression: From Project Assistant → Project Officer → Project Manager → Senior Coordinator.
   • Salary Range: €2,400–€4,200 per month.
2. Policy and Advocacy:
   • Monitor EU policies on culture, youth, and education; draft position papers; coordinate consultations.
   • Requires knowledge of EU legislative processes and experience in policy communication.
   • Progression: Policy Intern → Policy Officer → Advocacy Lead.
   • Salary: €2,800–€4,600.
3. Communications & Public Affairs:
   • Manage website, newsletters, social media, press relations.
   • Requires digital communication expertise, design skills (Canva, Adobe), and multilingual proficiency.
   • Progression: Communications Assistant → Officer → Manager.
   • Salary: €2,500–€4,000.
4. Education & Pedagogical Development:
   • Support curriculum exchange between schools; coordinate teacher workshops.
   • Requires arts education background and cultural project management skills.
   • Progression: Educational Assistant → Coordinator → Head of Pedagogy.
   • Salary: €2,600–€4,800.
5. Membership Relations:
   • Maintain relationships with 80+ member schools; organize annual meetings; assist with membership onboarding.
   • Ideal for candidates with interpersonal skills and sector networking experience.
   • Salary: €2,700–€3,800.
6. Finance & Administration:
   • Handle budgeting, grants accounting, and compliance with EU financial rules.
   • Requires financial administration qualifications and experience with EU grant accounting.
   • Salary: €2,800–€4,500.
7. Event Management:
   • Organize conferences, training sessions, and member annual gatherings.
   • Skills: logistics, EU travel coordination, supplier management.
   • Salary: €2,400–€3,800.
8. Research & Development:
   • Conduct studies on artistic pedagogy and education models.
   • Requires research experience and intercultural analysis skills.
   • Salary: €3,000–€4,500.
9. Digital Content & ICT Support:
   • Develop online learning platforms, manage digital archives.
   • Salary: €2,600–€4,200.
10. Internships & Junior Support Roles:
    • Open to students or recent graduates; focus on communications, project admin, or research.
    • Interns receive stipends around €1,000–€1,200/month.

3. Application Process & Requirements

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Step 1: Research the organization via its official materials, social channels, and Erasmus+ project descriptions.
2. Step 2: Identify relevant openings through FEDEC newsletters or partner portals like Europeana, Culture Action Europe, or Eurodesk.
3. Step 3: Prepare a tailored CV and cover letter emphasizing EU cultural project experience.
4. Step 4: Submit application via email or web form (usually directed to [email protected]).
5. Step 5: Initial screening by HR or project coordinator. Expect follow-up within 2–3 weeks.
6. Step 6: First-round interview (video or phone) focusing on motivation and role fit.
7. Step 7: Technical or case assignment—may involve drafting a mini project proposal or EU budget breakdown.
8. Step 8: Panel interview in Brussels, often with the Director and key coordinators.
9. Step 9: Reference check from previous supervisors or institutions.
10. Step 10: Final offer and onboarding—includes introduction to FEDEC member network and project portfolio.

Assessment Methods: Written assignments, competency interviews, language tests, and motivational analysis. Candidates for policy or communication roles may be asked to produce a short writing sample or policy note.

Success Tips: Demonstrate passion for educational innovation and the circus arts, link experience to EU program frameworks (Erasmus+, Creative Europe), and communicate clearly in English and French. Express flexible collaboration aptitude typical of small NGOs.

4. Interview Preparation

Common Interview Questions (15–20 Examples)

• What motivates you to work in the field of circus arts education?
• Describe your experience with EU-funded cultural programs.
• How would you manage communication across multiple European partners?
• Tell us about a project you coordinated and what outcomes you achieved.
• How would you promote diversity and inclusion within artistic education?
• What do you know about FEDEC’s strategic goals within EU cultural policy?
• How do you handle tight deadlines for EU reporting?
• Give an example of intercultural communication challenges you resolved.
• How do you maintain relationships with member schools from different countries?
• What tools do you use for project budgeting and monitoring?
• Describe how you would improve FEDEC’s digital visibility.
• Which artistic education trends do you find most promising?
• How do you approach joint project proposals with multiple stakeholders?
• Do you have experience in organizing conferences or workshops?
• How would you measure impact in an educational project?
• What languages do you speak and how have they helped in international work?
• What challenges do NGOs face in EU cultural funding?
• How would you contribute to FEDEC’s network growth?
• What are your expectations from this role?
• Where do you see FEDEC’s mission evolving in the next five years?

Interview Format:

Usually consists of two rounds. The first is online, focusing on motivations and soft skills. The second is a Brussels-based panel with project coordinators and the director. Occasionally includes a written test (project brief, communication draft, or budget simulation).

Follow-Up Strategies:

Send a courteous follow-up email within 48 hours thanking interviewers. Emphasize enthusiasm for the mission and add a small reflection on how you could immediately contribute to an ongoing project. Maintain professional contact via LinkedIn afterward.

5. Networking & Insider Tips

Networking with FEDEC Staff: The most effective approach involves engaging at EU cultural conferences or events where FEDEC presents results from Erasmus+ or Creative Europe projects. Staff often attend meetings hosted by Circostrada Network, Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), and Cultural Policy Research Platform.

Key Events: Attend the annual FEDEC conference, the "CircusNext" forums, and the European Youth Cultural Summit. These events gather educators, artists, and policy makers, enabling direct connections.

LinkedIn Strategy: Follow FEDEC’s page and engage with posts about education or creative pedagogy. Comment insightfully on updates to demonstrate awareness of cultural education trends. Reach out to project coordinators respectfully with specific collaboration interests.

Internal Referral Program: FEDEC sometimes encourages member school staff to refer candidates for vacancies or internships. Develop relationships with representatives of member schools or training centers—these connections can lead to insider recommendations.

6. Career Development & Culture

FEDEC places strong emphasis on continuous learning and cross-cultural competence. Employees participate in training on EU project management, intercultural communication, and artistic pedagogy.

Training Initiatives:

• Workshops on EU grant writing and reporting.
• Seminars on circus pedagogical innovation.
• Annual staff development retreats focusing on leadership and creativity.

Work-Life Balance and Culture:

Workload fluctuates with project cycles; core hours are typically 9:00–17:30, with flexibility for remote work. FEDEC’s culture is inclusive, creative, and informal, emphasizing teamwork and cross-border collaboration.

Diversity and Inclusion:

FEDEC promotes participation from diverse cultural backgrounds and strives for gender balance. It actively advocates inclusion of marginalised youth through projects involving circus pedagogy as a social tool.

Performance & Promotion:

Performance reviews occur annually. Criteria include project delivery quality, communication effectiveness, and contribution to network goals. Promotions often come with responsibility for new EU projects or expanded partnership portfolios.

7. Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Bands:
  • Interns: €1,000–€1,200/month
  • Assistants: €2,200–€2,600/month
  • Officers: €2,800–€3,800/month
  • Coordinators/Managers: €3,800–€4,800/month
  • Senior/Director level: €4,800–€5,800/month
• Bonuses: Project completion bonuses and small annual performance rewards.
• Benefits: Health insurance, lunch vouchers, travel reimbursements, and pension contributions per Belgian NGO standards.
• Perks: Flexible working hours, remote days, conference travel, and access to cultural events around Brussels.

8. Work-Life Balance & Brussels Living

Typical Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week with flexible start/end. Teleworking up to two days/week is standard.

Office Culture: Multilingual environment; staff often share creative passions including circus, theatre, and visual arts. Occasional group outings to local festivals or EU cultural events foster camaraderie.

Cost of Living: Brussels offers diverse accommodation options. Expect rent around €900–€1,200 for one-bedroom apartments. FEDEC’s office location near EU quarter provides proximity to transportation and cultural venues.

Family-Friendly Policies: FEDEC observes Belgian parental leave standards, offers flexible schedules during school holidays, and encourages family participation at cultural events.

9. Success Stories & Alumni Network

• “Anna, Project Officer (Germany):” Joined as intern, later managed a Creative Europe project linking 15 circus schools. Now works at European cultural platform – attributes FEDEC experience for EU project management proficiency.
• “Luis, Communications Assistant (Spain):” Transitioned from performing arts graduate to NGO communications. Developed multilingual newsletters and now leads digital campaigns for a UNESCO partner NGO.
• “Claire, Pedagogical Coordinator (France):” Former circus trainer who joined FEDEC to design teacher exchange programs. Now coordinates pan-European artistic residencies.
• “Matej, Finance Administrator (Czech Republic):” Joined FEDEC after working in Erasmus+ accounting; now supervises multiple grant budgets, mentoring new staff.

Alumni Network: FEDEC maintains informal alumni connections through its partner schools and social channels. Many previous staff remain active in EU cultural networks (Circostrada, ENCATC).

Mentorship Programs: Senior coordinators mentor interns or new staff, offering project management guidance and EU cultural policy insight. This ensures continuous professional development within the network.

10. Final Tips & Contact Information

• Study FEDEC’s past Erasmus+ projects and publications before applying.
• Show motivation rooted in cultural education impact, not merely administrative interest.
• Demonstrate multilingual and intercultural awareness in interviews.
• Network within European cultural events for visibility and referrals.

Contact:
For career inquiries, email: [email protected] or follow FEDEC social channels (Facebook, LinkedIn) for updates. Job openings are occasionally posted through Eurodesk or Culture Action Europe portals.

Resources for Ongoing Learning:

• EU Commission DG EAC website (Education and Culture policy).
• Creative Europe Desk Belgium.
• Culture Action Europe network materials.
• ENCATC and Circostrada events for professional development.

Key Takeaway:

Working at the Fédération Européenne des Écoles de Cirque professionnelles means contributing to a vibrant European cultural network shaping the future of artistic education. Candidates who combine cultural passion, EU project skills, and intercultural communication excellence will find both professional growth and meaningful impact in this dynamic NGO setting.