Organizer Information
The Common Guild is a leading contemporary visual arts organisation based in Glasgow, Scotland. Established in 2006, it has built a strong national and international reputation for producing critically engaged programmes across Contemporary Art, including exhibitions, commissions, publications, talks, and collaborative projects.
Working closely with artists and partner institutions, The Common Guild supports ambitious, context-responsive work that often extends beyond the gallery space into public and community settings. As a Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funded organisation, it operates as a charity combining artistic innovation with public value, accessibility, and long-term cultural impact.
Over two decades, it has become an influential platform for Visual Arts practice in Scotland, known for its commitment to artistic integrity, experimentation, and long-term artist relationships.
Title & Description
The Common Guild is recruiting a Director to lead one of Scotland’s most respected Visual Arts organisations into its next phase of development. This senior leadership role is responsible for shaping the organisation’s artistic vision, strategic direction, and long-term sustainability.
The Director will guide a high-profile programme of exhibitions, commissions, and events, while strengthening national and international partnerships and expanding the organisation’s public impact. The role requires close collaboration with artists, curators, funders, and the Board of Directors.
This is both a creative and executive leadership position, combining curatorial vision with organisational governance, fundraising strategy, and sector advocacy.
The Role Overview
- Position Type: Director
- Contract Type: Permanent, full-time
- Salary: £50,100–£57,100 per annum (depending on experience)
- Reports to: Board of Directors
- Programme Area: Exhibitions, commissions, public programmes, and organisational leadership
- Location: Glasgow, United Kingdom
Position & Tasks
Strategic Leadership
- Define and implement the organisation’s artistic and strategic vision
- Develop long-term organisational sustainability and financial resilience
- Act as the public ambassador for The Common Guild within the Visual Arts sector
Artistic Programme
- Oversee development of exhibitions, commissions, and public events
- Collaborate with artists and curators to deliver high-quality Exhibition programmes
- Expand international partnerships and artistic collaborations
- Contribute to contemporary discourse in Contemporary Art
Organisational Management
- Lead and manage internal staff, including Curator and Finance teams
- Ensure strong governance, compliance, and operational systems
- Promote equity, inclusion, accessibility, and environmental responsibility
- Embed Fair Work principles across organisational practice
Fundraising & Development
- Lead fundraising across public funding, trusts, foundations, and philanthropy
- Secure sustainable income streams to support artistic programming
- Develop partnerships with cultural and institutional stakeholders
Governance & Board Relations
- Report regularly to the Board of Directors
- Support governance development and strategic decision-making
- Maintain compliance with funding and regulatory frameworks
Communications & Advocacy
- Oversee communications strategy and institutional profile
- Represent the organisation at sector events and international platforms
- Strengthen visibility within the UK and global Visual Arts ecosystem
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Contemporary Art
- Exhibition
- Curatorial Practice
- Art Management
- Public Art
- Research, Education
- Cultural Leadership
Eligibility
- Significant leadership experience in the Contemporary Art or Visual Arts sector
- Proven experience in organisational leadership and strategic planning
- Strong track record in fundraising and financial management
- Experience working with Boards and governance structures
- Established professional network in the arts sector
- Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability
- Knowledge of contemporary visual arts practice in Scotland or internationally
- Right to work in the United Kingdom required
Program Benefits
- Competitive salary: £50,100–£57,100 per year
- Leadership of a nationally and internationally recognised arts organisation
- Opportunity to shape major Exhibition and commissioning programmes
- Access to established networks in the UK and global contemporary art sector
- Workplace pension scheme (4% employer contribution)
- 30 days annual leave including public holidays
- Employee Assistance Programme and flexible working arrangements
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- CV including employment history, qualifications, and references
- Cover letter (max 2 pages) addressing motivation, leadership approach, and contribution to The Common Guild
- Confirmation of legal right to work in the UK
- Equal opportunities monitoring form (submitted separately)
How to Apply?
Applications should be submitted in PDF to Board@thecommonguild.org.uk
You will also need to submit an equal opportunities monitoring form, which you can complete anonymously here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/x7CfCAn8PA
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 21 July 2026
- Interviews: 26 August 2026
Location
Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- Flexible working policy available depending on organisational needs
- Pension scheme: Aviva workplace pension (4% employer / 4% employee)
- 30 days annual leave including public holidays
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion are core organisational values
- Remote interview option available in special cases, though in-person attendance is encouraged
- Applicants must provide valid proof of UK work eligibility before employment begins