At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic and operational functions to enhance Scotland's creative industries.
- Company: Creative Scotland, a key player in arts and culture funding.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to shape Scotland's creative future.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at a pivotal moment for creativity in Scotland.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on Scotland's cultural landscape and drive innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven executive leadership experience and strong governance skills.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 120000 € per year.
Creativity is central to Scotland’s identity, wellbeing and economic future. At Creative Scotland – inclusive of Screen Scotland – we invest public funding from the Scottish Government and The National Lottery to ensure the arts, screen and creative industries flourish in every part of the country.
We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to join our Executive Leadership Team at a pivotal moment for the organisation and the sector. This is a rare opportunity to shape the operational and strategic delivery of one of Scotland’s most influential public bodies.
The Opportunity
As Chief Operating Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across our core corporate and business functions – including Finance, Funding, Digital, Communications, HR and Office Services – ensuring they operate with clarity, efficiency and purpose. Working in close partnership with the Chief Executive and Board, you will:
- Lead the delivery of our operational and corporate strategy in a complex, high-profile public environment.
- Strengthen governance, risk management and financial stewardship, ensuring robust accountability for significant public investment.
- Embed a culture of innovation, continuous improvement and high performance across the organisation.
- Drive digital and organisational transformation to improve how we serve artists, creative businesses and communities.
- Deputise for the Chief Executive as required, engaging confidently with Ministers, senior civil servants and national stakeholders.
This role demands both strategic foresight and operational grip. You will balance day-to-day delivery with long-term transformation, ensuring Creative Scotland remains resilient, agile and impactful in a financially constrained and evolving public sector landscape.
The Person
We are looking for an exceptional senior leader with:
- A strong track record of executive leadership in a complex organisation, ideally within the public or publicly funded sector.
- Deep experience of corporate governance, financial oversight and performance management.
- The credibility to influence at Board and Government level.
- Experience of leading multi-disciplinary corporate functions and driving organisational change.
- A commitment to equalities, diversity and inclusion, fair work and environmental sustainability.
Above all, you will be motivated by public value. You will understand the role that creativity plays in Scotland’s social, cultural and economic life – and be inspired to ensure that our organisation operates at the highest level in enabling it. This is a nationally significant leadership role, offering the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to Scotland’s creative future.
If you are a strategic, values-driven leader ready to shape the next chapter of Creative Scotland’s journey, we would be delighted to hear from you.
To apply for the post, please send a tailored CV and covering letter to by midnight on Sunday 22 March, 2026. The covering letter should be no more than two pages of A4 and should outline your relevant experience, leadership approach and motivation for applying.
If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role, please contact LHH on +44 (0)141 220 6460 or via the email address above.
Chief Operating Officer in Dunfermline employer: Creative Scotland
Creative Scotland is an exceptional employer that champions creativity and innovation at the heart of Scotland's cultural landscape. With a commitment to inclusivity, employee development, and a collaborative work culture, we empower our team to drive meaningful change in the arts and creative industries. Located in Edinburgh, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence public policy and contribute to the flourishing of Scotland's creative future while enjoying the benefits of a hybrid working model.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in Dunfermline
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help land that dream job.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with professionals in your field. This isn’t a job interview, but a chance to learn and make connections. We can use these conversations to showcase our passion and get insider tips on what it takes to succeed in roles like Chief Operating Officer.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Create content that highlights your knowledge and skills. Whether it’s writing articles, sharing insights on social media, or even starting a blog, we can position ourselves as thought leaders in the creative sector. This will definitely catch the eye of hiring managers!
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website. It shows initiative and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in Scotland’s creative landscape!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in Dunfermline
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Chief Operating Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in executive leadership, corporate governance, and financial oversight to show us you’re the right fit for Creative Scotland.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be no more than two pages of A4, so make every word count! Use it to showcase your leadership approach and motivation for applying, while connecting your values with our mission at Creative Scotland.
Showcase Your Strategic Vision:In both your CV and cover letter, don’t forget to demonstrate your strategic foresight and operational grip. We want to see how you balance day-to-day delivery with long-term transformation in a complex public environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website to ensure your application reaches us directly. It’s the best way to get your materials in front of the right people and kickstart your journey with Creative Scotland!
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Creative Scotland's mission and values. Understand their current projects and challenges in the arts and creative sectors. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Chief Operating Officer, your leadership approach is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through change, managed financial oversight, and improved governance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about your vision for operational and strategic delivery. Think about how you would drive digital transformation and foster a culture of innovation at Creative Scotland. Prepare thoughtful insights that demonstrate your understanding of the public sector landscape.
✨Engage with Passion
Creative Scotland is all about creativity and public value. Make sure to express your passion for the arts and how you see your role contributing to Scotland’s cultural and economic future. Authentic enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
