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- Tasks: Lead the RIAS Bookshop and organise exciting arts events and exhibitions.
- Company: Join a prestigious organisation promoting architecture and design in Scotland.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, creative environment, and opportunities to engage with the arts community.
- Why this job: Make a difference by connecting people with literature and visual arts in a vibrant setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in event management, sales, and a passion for books and the arts.
- Other info: Great chance to enhance your CV while working in a dynamic cultural hub.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This part-time role combines management of the RIAS online Bookshop with the delivery of book-related events and small-scale visual arts exhibitions. The role supports RIAS in engaging members and the wider public through the online Bookshop, book talks, exhibitions and a programme of pop-up events. It focuses on coordinating activities, supporting sales and public engagement, and making effective use of meeting and events spaces within the RIAS Edinburgh headquarters.
Key Results
- Contribute to the development and delivery of a programme of book talks and exhibitions through liaison with authors, publishers and contributors from the design and visual arts community. This includes collaboration with the Edinburgh Architectural Association and, where relevant, other RIAS Chapters to support wider outreach.
- Purchase stock, manage book titles, administer sales, monitor stock levels and provide regular sales updates or reports as required.
- Optimise the presentation of the RIAS Bookshop and online sales platform, to meet customer needs and drive sales.
- Support the day-to-day operation of the online Bookshop, including sales processing and order fulfilment.
- Organise and support pop-up and event-related activity, such as book sale evenings, member events, book stalls at partner or RIAS Chapter events, Doors Open Days, gallery exhibitions and launches.
- Identify additional items for sale online or at events, including photography or art linked to exhibitions or member activity.
- Identify ways to reach new audiences and increase book sales and event attendance, and work with the Marketing Manager and Outreach Coordinator to trial and implement new approaches.
- Support the administration of Scottish Building Contract sales, including online orders and pre-arranged collections.
- Respond to enquiries relating to visits to the Bookshop and bookings for the Members' Room, Gallery and Council Room, following agreed processes.
- Assist with administrative duties, including reception cover at busy times.
To apply for this position please send your CV and a covering statement (no more than one side of A4) demonstrating your experience in relation to the job description and required competencies. Applications will be shortlisted and those selected, invited to interview. Both the application, supporting statement and interview will contribute towards the assessment and final appointment.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 17:00.
Bookshop & Arts Events Lead in Edinburgh employer: Creative Scotland
Contact Detail:
Creative Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bookshop & Arts Events Lead in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research RIAS and their events, bookshop, and community engagement. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend events related to architecture and arts in Edinburgh. Connect with authors, publishers, and other professionals in the field. You never know who might have a lead on job opportunities!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed events or increased sales in the past. Bring these stories to life during your interview to demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the RIAS team and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Bookshop & Arts Events Lead in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your covering statement, let your enthusiasm for books and the arts shine through. We want to see how your love for literature and visual arts aligns with our mission at RIAS.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that matches the job description. We’re looking for specific examples of your past work in managing events or book sales, so don’t hold back!
Be Concise and Clear: Keep your covering statement to one side of A4 as requested. We appreciate clarity and brevity, so get straight to the point while showcasing your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials and helps us keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the RIAS Bookshop and its offerings. Understand the types of books and events they host, and be ready to discuss how you can enhance their current programme. Showing genuine interest in their mission will set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Event Management Skills
Prepare examples of past events you've organised or contributed to. Highlight your ability to liaise with authors, publishers, and other stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you can bring fresh ideas for book talks and exhibitions that engage both members and the public.
✨Demonstrate Sales Savvy
Think about strategies to optimise sales in the online Bookshop. Come prepared with ideas on how to present stock effectively and reach new audiences. Discussing your experience with sales processing and order fulfilment will also show you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Engage with the Community
Be prepared to talk about how you would identify and implement new approaches to increase event attendance and book sales. Mention any previous experience working with community outreach or marketing teams, as collaboration is key in this role.