At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial development across publishing, events, and partnerships for a cultural organisation.
- Company: Join the Craft Potters Association, the UK's leading organisation for studio potters.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time role, hybrid working, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Shape the future of ceramics while making meaningful commercial impact.
- Qualifications: 5 years in commercial management with strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Collaborate with a passionate team and engage with a vibrant community.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 30000 £ per year.
The Crafts Potters Association (CPA) is seeking an experienced and imaginative Commercial Manager to lead our commercial development across all areas of activity, including our magazine, gallery, fairs and membership programme. This is a strategic, cross-organisational role at a pivotal moment for CPA. Working closely with the Director and senior team, you will play a central role in strengthening our long-term financial sustainability, reducing reliance on any single income stream and shaping how CPA develops commercial partnerships in a way that aligns with our values and supports excellence in studio ceramics.
This role offers real autonomy and influence. You will have the opportunity to bring ideas, test new approaches and build meaningful partnerships.
Why This Role Is Exciting
- An opportunity to work across publishing (Ceramic Review), events, exhibitions, fairs and digital platforms within one respected cultural organisation.
- High visibility and influence, with direct input into CPA's commercial strategy and future direction.
- The chance to develop and grow partnerships with brands, organisations and individuals who value craft, design and making.
- A role that combines strong commercial thinking with cultural impact and purpose.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver a coherent commercial plan for CPA, identifying and growing income streams across advertising, sponsorship, partnerships and digital platforms.
- Lead advertising and media sales across print (Ceramic Review and fair catalogues) and digital channels, ensuring a high-quality client experience and consistent messaging.
- Develop and manage sponsorship and partnership opportunities for CPA's major events, exhibitions and digital channels, building relationships that add both financial and reputational value.
- Identify and commercialise CPA assets including content, digital reach and audience insight to create new, brand-aligned opportunities such as collaborations, retail or content partnerships.
- Work with the Finance Manager to support income forecasting, set realistic targets and track performance against agreed goals.
- Represent CPA externally, building and maintaining strong relationships with advertisers, sponsors and commercial partners.
About You
You are a confident, relationship-driven commercial professional who enjoys working across teams and spotting opportunities. You are comfortable balancing strategy with delivery and are motivated by building sustainable income in a values-led organisation. You may come from the arts, media, publishing, events or a related creative or cultural sector. You do not need to be a ceramics specialist but curiosity, openness and an appreciation for craft and design are what matter most.
You will bring:
- Significant experience in advertising sales, partnerships, sponsorship or business development.
- A proven ability to translate ideas into deliverable, income-generating initiatives.
- Confidence negotiating and building relationships with senior decision-makers.
- Strong commercial awareness, including experience with targets, forecasting and reporting.
- A collaborative, adaptable approach and comfort working across creative and editorial teams.
- An interest in craft, design and the values of the studio pottery community.
What We Offer
- A flexible, part-time role with hybrid working.
- The opportunity to shape and lead new commercial initiatives from the ground up.
- A chance to work within a respected national cultural organisation with an engaged and passionate audience.
- Collaboration with a small, committed team and a broad network of makers, partners and supporters.
Company Overview
The Craft Potters Association (CPA) is the UK's leading members' organisation representing studio potters and ceramic artists. With a legacy of promoting excellence in contemporary ceramics, the CPA supports a thriving community of ceramic practitioners and enthusiasts. The organisation operates the Contemporary Ceramics gallery, publishes the internationally renowned Ceramics Review magazine, and organises major ceramics fairs including Ceramic Art London. Our small but dynamic team of 15 staff and freelancers works collaboratively to champion handmade ceramics through exhibitions, publishing, and events.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about supporting the arts through sound financial stewardship, we invite you to bring your expertise to our vibrant community. Join us in shaping the future of CPA. To apply, please send a CV and short covering letter outlining your relevant experience to hr@ceramicreview.com, with "Commercial Manager application" in the subject line.
Location: London / Hybrid
Hours: Part-time (21 hours per week)
Salary: Up to £25,000 pro rata
Contract: Fixed-term / Contract
Artform: Crafts
Closing date: Friday 30 January 2026
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Work from home
Education: Bachelor's (required)
Experience: Commercial management: 5 years (required)
Commercial Manager in Slough employer: Craft Potters Association
Contact Detail:
Craft Potters Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the ceramics and arts community. Attend events, fairs, and exhibitions to meet potential employers and collaborators. Remember, it's all about building those relationships!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for craft and design! When you get the chance to chat with someone about your experience, make sure to highlight your interest in the arts and how it aligns with the values of the CPA. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the CPA and its initiatives. Understand their commercial strategy and think about how you can contribute. Bring ideas to the table that show you're ready to make an impact from day one!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our vibrant community at the CPA.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in advertising sales, partnerships, and any relevant achievements that showcase your commercial awareness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the arts and how your background fits with CPA's values. Be sure to mention specific examples of how you've successfully developed income streams or built partnerships.
Show Your Curiosity: Even if you’re not a ceramics expert, let your curiosity and appreciation for craft and design come through in your application. Share any personal experiences or interests that connect you to the world of studio pottery.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to include 'Commercial Manager application' in the subject line of your email to help us keep track of your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Craft Potters Association
✨Know Your Craft
Even if you're not a ceramics expert, show genuine curiosity about the craft and design. Research the Craft Potters Association's values and recent projects to demonstrate your understanding of their mission and how you can contribute.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in advertising sales, partnerships, or business development. Be ready to discuss how you've translated ideas into income-generating initiatives, as this will resonate with their need for strong commercial thinking.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your experience in building and maintaining relationships with senior decision-makers. Think of ways to illustrate your collaborative approach and adaptability, as these qualities are crucial for working across teams at CPA.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about their current commercial strategies or upcoming events, showing that you're eager to engage and contribute to their future direction.