Short Description:
The Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts (RHA) is one of Ireland’s leading visual arts
institutions, dedicated to supporting contemporary artists through exhibitions, education,
and artist development. The RHA comprises an artist membership, a prestigious public art
gallery, the RHA School, artist studios, and a dynamic education and outreach programme.
Our mission is to foster the appreciation and understanding of visual arts while supporting
emerging and established artists in Ireland and beyond, and to contextualise our historic
legacy.
For 200 years, we have been run by eminent artists and architects, elected by their peers
in recognition of their work. The RHA Director works in tandem with the gallery team and
RHA Academicians to realise the core vision of supporting artists, training students and
exhibiting contemporary art.
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director to lead the RHA into its next phase
of growth and innovation. Reporting to the Council of the RHA, and working in close
collaboration with the Officers of the RHA, and the RHA’s Advisory Boards, the Director will
provide strategic leadership and collaborate across all facets of the institution, overseeing
the gallery’s artistic programming, the development of the RHA School, the management
of artist studios, the expansion of the education and outreach programme and building management. This role requires a passionate director with a collaborative approach, deep
knowledge of contemporary art, good interpersonal skills, fundraising capabilities, and a
commitment to fostering artistic excellence and public engagement. The new director will
support the RHA in its constant evolution as an inclusive, innovative and ambitious space
for artists and audiences.
The normal hours of work will be 35 hours per week and will be set out in the Contract of
Employment. Flexibility is required as part of this post and a willingness to work occasional
evenings and weekends is essential. Annual Leave will be 25 working days a year. This leave
is the basis of a five-day week and is exclusive of the usual public holidays
Key Responsibilities:
● Vision & Strategy: Develop and execute a forward-thinking, inclusive strategy for
the RHA
● Curatorial & Artistic Programme: Oversee the development and execution of
exhibitions and public programmes and provide space for a variety of voices.
● Team Leadership: Inspire, manage and support a skilled and committed team,
nurturing a positive, motivated and collaborative working culture
● Operational & Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, nurture human
resources and manage the RHA’s financial and administrative operations efficiently
and ethically
● Communication: Ensure that there are effective channels of communication
between staff, management, council and the wider membership ,and the RHA
Advisory Boards, maintaining transparency throughout the organisation
● Fundraising & Development: Proactively identify and secure grant funding,
sponsorship and philanthropic support to sustain and grow the RHA’s activities.
● Sustainability & Accessibility: actively driving strategies for accessibility, inclusion
and environmental and social sustainability
● Education & Outreach: Oversee the expansion of programmes that make art
accessible to all. Nurturing creativity and inclusion.
● Advocacy & Promotion: Champion the RHA’s mission on national and international
platforms
● Community & Stakeholder Engagement: Build meaningful relationships with
artists, funders, public bodies and communities.
● Member Engagement: Cultivate strong and authentic relationships with RHA
members, ensuring their voices are represented and celebrated throughout the
Academy’s work.
Application Requirements:
Interested candidates should submit the following:
● A cover letter detailing their vision for the RHA.
● A detailed resume/CV.
● Contact information for three professional references.
● Portfolio or examples of previous curatorial and educational work.
Eligibility:
● Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience in the arts sector.
● A strong track record that demonstrates curatorial expertise and a deep
understanding of contemporary visual art.
● Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and strategic operational and
financial management.
Program Benefits or Awards:
A creative and inspiring work environment within one of Ireland’s leading
contemporary art institutions.
A competitive salary and pension scheme.
Opportunities for professional development and international collaborations.
Relocation assistance can be provided
Employment Type: Full-time
Salary: €90,000
Term: 7-year fixed contract with option for extension
Entry Fee: none
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Deadline: 30th September 2025
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