At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Glastonbury Abbey into its next chapter with strategic vision and community engagement.
- Company: Glastonbury Abbey, a historic and spiritual heritage site in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an iconic site while honouring its rich legacy.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in heritage or cultural organisations.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to preserving history and engaging the community.
The predicted salary is between 66445 - 70137 £ per year.
Glastonbury Abbey is seeking a new Director following the retirement of Janet Bell MBE, whose leadership has helped shape the Abbey into the resilient, trusted and welcoming heritage organisation it is today. This is a rare opportunity to build on a strong legacy and lead one of England’s most important historic and spiritual sites into its next chapter.
Working with the Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team, the Director will provide strategic and executive leadership across:
- Conservation
- Visitor experience
- Interpretation
- Learning
- Commercial performance
- Community engagement
Ensuring the Abbey’s long-term sustainability and public benefit.
Key details
- 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
Director – Glastonbury Abbey employer: Museums & Heritage Show
Contact Detail:
Museums & Heritage Show Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director – Glastonbury Abbey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the heritage sector, especially those connected to Glastonbury Abbey. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Dive deep into Glastonbury Abbey’s history, current projects, and future plans. Showing that you understand their mission and vision will make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the Abbey's goals in conservation, visitor experience, and community engagement. We want to hear how you can lead them into the next chapter!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Director – Glastonbury Abbey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Glastonbury Abbey's mission and values. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like community engagement and visitor experience.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Use your application to highlight past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in heritage or cultural settings.
Be Clear and Concise: While we want to see your passion, it's important to keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. A well-structured application makes it easier for the Board of Trustees to see your potential.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This ensures that your application is received directly and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, it’s a great way to explore more about what we do at Glastonbury Abbey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Museums & Heritage Show
✨Know the Abbey Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Glastonbury Abbey's history, mission, and recent developments. Understanding its heritage and community role will show your genuine interest and help you articulate how you can build on Janet Bell's legacy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Prepare to discuss your past experiences in leading teams and projects, particularly in heritage or community-focused environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven strategic initiatives and engaged with stakeholders.
✨Engage with the Board's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Board of Trustees' goals and values. During the interview, align your vision for the Abbey with theirs, demonstrating how you can contribute to its long-term sustainability and public benefit while enhancing visitor experience and community engagement.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the Abbey's future challenges and opportunities. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your aspirations and values.