Director of Programming and Engagement

Director of Programming and Engagement

Full-Time 60000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Creative Scotland

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the artistic programme and engagement strategy at a landmark venue.
  • Company: The Dunard Centre, a unique cultural hub for diverse communities.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and opportunity to shape community engagement.
  • Other info: Join us in creating a truly inclusive and accessible creative space.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on young people and emerging artists through innovative programming.
  • Qualifications: Senior experience in programming and strong musical knowledge required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.

We’re looking to appoint an outstanding Director of Programming & Engagement to lead the development and delivery of our artistic programme and engagement strategy. Salary c.£60,000 FTE per annum.

The Dunard Centre is a once-in-a-century building, and this is a unique opportunity to shape its programming, both on and off the stage. Our vision is to create a ‘Hall for All’, and to do this by building our learning, community and education initiatives into our programming from the outset. Everything is engagement, and everyone is our audience.

The Director of Programming & Engagement will work with the Chief Executive to develop the Dunard Centre’s long-term artistic strategy, ensuring that the charity meets its ambitions to be a truly inclusive, accessible and welcoming creative hub that is home to a wide spectrum of genres and a broad cross-section of the local, national and international communities.

We are looking for a creative and strategic leader, who is passionate about the impact that our work can have on the lives of young people, emerging artists, audiences, and the wider community. The successful candidate will build partnerships and networks locally, nationally and internationally, develop bold collaborations and curated strands, and deliver a diverse programme that balances artistic ambition with commercial sustainability.

Candidates should demonstrate significant senior experience in programming within a performance venue, festival or concert hall, alongside strong musical knowledge and a proven track record of delivering participation and engagement programmes, particularly those supporting young people and emerging talent.

The deadline is Monday 22 June 2026 at 09:00.

Director of Programming and Engagement employer: Creative Scotland

The Dunard Centre is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a transformative artistic programme in a landmark venue. With a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and innovation, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in a vibrant area, the Centre not only champions diverse programming but also prioritises the well-being and advancement of its staff, making it a truly rewarding place to work.

Creative Scotland

Contact Details:

Creative Scotland Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Programming and Engagement

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with those who share your passion for programming and engagement. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.

Tip Number 2

Showcase your creativity! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, don’t just talk about your experience—bring ideas to the table. Share your vision for engaging communities and how you’d make the Dunard Centre a hub for all.

Tip Number 3

Be prepared for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their current programming and think about how you can contribute to their mission of inclusivity and accessibility. Tailor your approach to align with their goals.

Tip Number 4

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 community and contributing to our artistic vision.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Programming and Engagement

Artistic Programming
Engagement Strategy Development
Community Engagement
Partnership Building
Collaboration Skills
Project Management
Musical Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how passionate you are about programming and engagement, so share your experiences and what drives you in this field.

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Director of Programming & Engagement role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our vision of creating a ‘Hall for All’.

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and ideas for the Dunard Centre’s artistic programme.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Dunard Centre.

How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland

Know Your Audience

Before the interview, research the Dunard Centre and its mission to create a ‘Hall for All’. Understand their artistic programme and community engagement strategies. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their vision.

Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your senior experience in programming and engagement. Discuss how you've successfully built partnerships and delivered diverse programmes, especially those that support young people and emerging talent.

Be Creative and Strategic

Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the Dunard Centre. Be ready to discuss how you would balance artistic ambition with commercial sustainability. This shows that you can think outside the box while still being practical.

Engage with Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their current challenges or future plans for community engagement. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you insight into how you can contribute to their goals.