At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Glastonbury Abbey's strategic direction and enhance its public profile.
- Company: Glastonbury Abbey, a historic and spiritual site with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a significant cultural landmark and engage with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for heritage and community engagement.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team and enjoy opportunities for innovative thinking and growth.
The predicted salary is between 56400 - 60000 £ per year.
Salary: £66,445 – £70,137 (FTE), depending on experience
Contract: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week). Flexible working will be considered
Location: Glastonbury, Somerset
Reports to: Chair of Trustees
Closing date: 13 February 2026.
Interviews: 9–10 March 2026.
Glastonbury Abbey is recruiting a Director following the retirement of Janet Bell MBE, whose tenure has provided stability, growth and careful stewardship of one of England’s most important historic and spiritual sites. The Trustees now seek an exceptional leader to build on this strong foundation and guide the Abbey through its next phase of development.
An independent charity and scheduled ancient monument, Glastonbury Abbey welcomes nearly 180,000 visitors annually and operates without core grant funding. The Abbey comprises nationally significant archaeological remains, an accredited museum, historic buildings and 36 acres of landscaped grounds, alongside a vibrant programme of events, learning and community engagement.
Reporting to the Chair of Trustees and working with an experienced Senior Leadership Team, the Director will be responsible for:
- Strategic direction
- Financial sustainability
- Conservation and interpretation
- Strengthening the Abbey’s public profile and partnerships
This is an attractive career opportunity offering scope for new thinking, fresh leadership and ambition.
To apply for this role please download the application pack and form on the Glastonbury Abbey website via the button below.
Director - Glastonbury Abbey in Somerset employer: Glastonbury Abbey
Contact Detail:
Glastonbury Abbey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director - Glastonbury Abbey in Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with those who have ties to Glastonbury Abbey. You never know who might give you a heads-up about the role or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Dive deep into Glastonbury Abbey's history, current projects, and future plans. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also help you tailor your approach to align with their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview like it’s the final exam! Think about potential questions related to leadership, financial sustainability, and community engagement. Practise your answers and be ready to showcase your unique ideas for the Abbey.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Director - Glastonbury Abbey in Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what the role of Director at Glastonbury Abbey entails. Highlight the key responsibilities and requirements in your application to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As we’re looking for an exceptional leader, don’t hold back on sharing your past experiences. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic direction and ability to drive financial sustainability.
Tailor Your Application: Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically to Glastonbury Abbey. Mention how your vision aligns with our mission and how you can contribute to the Abbey’s next phase of development.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through the Glastonbury Abbey website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is received and considered, plus you’ll find all the necessary forms and information there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Glastonbury Abbey
✨Know Your Abbey
Before the interview, dive deep into the history and significance of Glastonbury Abbey. Familiarise yourself with its key features, recent developments, and community engagement initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your vision aligns with the Abbey's mission.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership skills. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams, managed projects, or navigated challenges. Highlight how these experiences can translate to guiding Glastonbury Abbey through its next phase of development.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Given the role's focus on financial sustainability, brush up on your financial management skills. Be ready to discuss strategies you've implemented in previous positions to enhance revenue streams or manage budgets effectively. This will reassure the Trustees that you can maintain the Abbey's financial health.
✨Engage with Community and Partnerships
Glastonbury Abbey thrives on community engagement and partnerships. Think about how you've fostered relationships in the past and be prepared to share ideas on how to strengthen the Abbey's public profile. Showing that you understand the importance of collaboration will set you apart.