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- Tasks: Lead Open Book's operations and develop community connections through literature.
- Company: Join a well-established charity making a difference in Scotland.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, collaborative environment, and the chance to impact lives.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team transforming lives through literature in community settings.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in charity or readiness for the next step.
- Other info: Exciting role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Apply by 12pm on Wednesday 14 January for this co-director role based in Edinburgh. Join the leadership team as Co-Director of Open Book and play a role in helping adults in Scotland make connections through literature.
Alongside Claire Urquhart, the new Co-Director of Open Book will play a key role in the day‑to‑day operations and future development of Open Book, building on the strength of its foundation and operations over the past 12 years. Open Book is now a multi‑year funded organisation with the stability that regular funding brings.
After many years working together as Founders and Co‑Directors, Marjorie Lotfi is now stepping back from her role as Director but will continue to serve as an advisor and Trustee on the Open Book Board of Trustees. The advertised role has a start date of 1 May (with some/limited flexibility), taking over from Marjorie who will step down in late May 2026.
Open Book are looking for a dynamic individual who is passionate about using literature to support the lives of adults in community settings. You will be confident in decision making and experienced in working with boards, funders and partners. You will also bring strong vision and leadership to the role, have excellent communication skills and a deep understanding of Scotland’s cultural landscape. You will have three years experience in a similar leadership role or be ready to take the next step up in charity leadership.
This is an exciting opportunity to play an important role in a charity that has championed supporting individuals in a wide range of community settings for over 12 years.
Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm, 3‑4 days per week. There is some flexibility as to the working days though an expectation that two of those days will overlap with the other Director.
Location: (non‑negotiable) in‑person role, based in the Open Book office at 11 Tipperlinn Road, Edinburgh EH10 5ET, although the job does on occasion involve some out of office work – e.g. attending Festivals/supporting groups in situ.
Co-Director: Open Book employer: Publishing Scotland
Contact Detail:
Publishing Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Co-Director: Open Book
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the literature and charity sectors, especially those connected to Open Book. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Open Book's mission and recent projects. Show us how your passion for literature aligns with our goals, and don’t forget to have some questions ready to demonstrate your interest!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your experiences and how you've made an impact in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your decision-making skills and ability to work with boards and partners.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining the Open Book team and making a difference in Scotland's literary community.
We think you need these skills to ace Co-Director: Open Book
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Co-Director role. Highlight your passion for literature and community work, as this will resonate with us at Open Book.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: We want to see your leadership chops! Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. This is your chance to shine a light on your decision-making skills and vision for the future.
Communicate Clearly: Your written application should be clear and concise. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and ensure your passion for supporting adults through literature comes across strongly.
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 Open Book.
How to prepare for a job interview at Publishing Scotland
✨Know Your Literature
Brush up on your knowledge of literature and its impact on community settings. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage literature to support adults in Scotland, as this role is all about making connections through books.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past leadership roles that demonstrate your decision-making skills and ability to work with boards and partners. Highlight any relevant experience that aligns with the mission of Open Book.
✨Understand the Cultural Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Scotland’s cultural landscape and how it relates to the work of Open Book. Being able to discuss current trends and challenges in the community will show your deep understanding and commitment to the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about future projects, partnerships, or how the organisation measures success. It shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
