At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the artistic vision of a top contemporary arts organisation.
- Company: The Common Guild, a renowned visual arts charity in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days leave, flexible working, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equity, diversity, and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the contemporary art scene and lead innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in the visual arts sector and strong fundraising skills.
The predicted salary is between 50100 - 57100 £ per year.
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.
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.
Position 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
- 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
Requirements
- 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
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
- 30 days annual leave including public holidays
- Employee Assistance Programme and flexible working arrangements
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
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.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 21 July 2026
- Interviews: 26 August 2026
Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom. 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.
The Common Guild: Director Role – Contemporary Visual Arts Open Call in Glasgow employer: Artinfoland
The South London Gallery is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for emerging curators to gain invaluable experience in a vibrant contemporary art setting. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the fellowship provides structured professional development, mentorship, and access to influential networks, all within a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises community engagement and artistic innovation.
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We think this is how you could land The Common Guild: Director Role – Contemporary Visual Arts Open Call in Glasgow
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We think you need these skills to ace The Common Guild: Director Role – Contemporary Visual Arts Open Call in Glasgow
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Tailor Your Documents to the Role:For a full-time role like The Common Guild: Director Role – Contemporary Visual Arts Open Call, ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Artinfoland
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of Artinfoland. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
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