Festival Programmer 2027 (Wigtown Festival Company)
Posted on: 18th September, 2026. Closing date: 18th October, 2026
The 29th Wigtown Book Festival will take place 24 September–3 October 2027. The festival are looking for an experienced, senior-level Festival Programmer to curate and deliver an outstanding 10-day event.
Founded in 1999, the 10-day Wigtown Book Festival is one of the UK’s best-loved literary events, delivering more than 250 events, including music, theatre, film, walks, talks, and visual arts. The festival grew from the development of Wigtown as Scotland’s National Book Town and has played a central part in the successful regeneration of the town as a vibrant and welcoming community and travel destination. Their mission is to produce the UK’s most exciting book festival and develop the literary and cultural wealth of Scotland’s National Book Town and its environs. In doing so, they will also deliver social and economic benefits for the people of the region. The festival team firmly believe that a community of books changes lives.
Wigtown Festival Company is looking for an experienced literary programmer with an ambitious and creative track record to lead the programming of the 2027 Wigtown Book Festival (not including events for children and young people).
The successful applicant will be responsible for the curation of a diverse and varied festival, taking a holistic approach to programming and working with the existing team, and will be public-facing during the festival.
The successful applicant will be able to recognise, respect and build upon the 28-year history of the Wigtown Book Festival and of Wigtown’s designation as Scotland’s National Book Town, whilst bringing fresh perspectives and thinking to the 29th edition.
They encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates and understand the value that people from diverse backgrounds can bring to our organisation. If you are disabled or have any specific access requirements, the festival aim to meet those needs.
Fee: £26,000 for 10 months, part‑time, freelance (£39,000 FTE)
Expenses: £1,000
Location: Remote
Contract: This role is for an initial 10-month contract with the option to renew. 5 January 2027 – 31 October 2027.
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Festival Programmer 2027 (Wigtown Festival Company) employer: Publishing Scotland
Publishing Scotland is an excellent employer that values community engagement and offers a supportive work culture focused on professional growth. With flexible working hours and a commitment to promoting literacy through initiatives like the Bookbug programme, employees can make a meaningful impact while enjoying a collaborative environment in the vibrant city of Edinburgh.
