At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead income generation strategies and develop commercial opportunities for Baltic.
- Company: Join Baltic, a vibrant art gallery welcoming 400,000 visitors annually.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts at local shops, restaurants, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Position based in Gateshead; must relocate to the North East within three months.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team driving positive change in the arts community.
- Qualifications: Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Baltic is a large must-visit art gallery and an iconic destination on the Gateshead quayside. We offer a warm welcome to 400,000 visitors each year and have just received our 10 millionth visitor.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is entering an exciting new chapter, and we’re looking for a passionate and strategic Director of Development & Enterprise to continue to shape our future income generation. Over the past five years, Baltic has undertaken a bold transformation of its business model, rooted in creativity, sustainability and a commitment to shared values. This journey has brought impressive results—our turnover has increased, return on investment in development has grown significantly, and we’ve brought trading in house to connect with our development partnerships.
The DDE is responsible for leading Baltic’s income generation strategy across trading activities, brand partnerships, sponsorship, trust fund applications, customer retention and engagement all aligned with the vision and values of the charity. You will develop commercially viable opportunities that generate public value and contribute to Baltic’s long-term sustainability. This includes designing and delivering the next phase of our Enterprise and Development Plan, shaping how Baltic evolves its business model for increased impact. Alongside the CEO and Chair, you will support Baltic’s Endowment (Launching October 2025, already with committed funds) and £10m Capital refurbishment programme (currently RIBA stage 3).
Baltic stands in a strong financial position, having reduced public funding from 60% to 48% while staying true to our mission, vision and values. We trade with a shared wealth philosophy, ensuring our commercial success directly supports our artistic programme and community reach. As our new Director of Development and Enterprise, you’ll join a supportive and innovative team, ready to explore new possibilities, deepen partnerships, and drive lasting, positive change.
Candidates must have eligibility to work in the UK. Baltic is committed to the goal of building a diverse workforce. We are inviting people with different skills, experiences, backgrounds, gender, orientation, and neurodiversity to apply for all job opportunities.
Reports to: Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Working hours: 37 hours per week
Place of Work: Your usual place of work will be Baltic, South Shore Road, Gateshead. The successful candidate must be based in the North East within three months of accepting the role.
Annual leave: 25 days plus bank holidays pro-rata
Benefits: 30% discount at Baltic Shop, discounted menu at Baltic Kitchen, 10% off standard rooms & food at Malmaison Hotel Newcastle, Discount at local retailers, Employee Pension Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme
Contact Details:
THE BALTIC CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development & Enterprise
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Baltic's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their transformation in business models and income generation strategies will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the arts and culture sector, especially those involved in development and enterprise. Attend relevant events or webinars to build connections that could support your application and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative ideas for income generation that resonate with Baltic's mission. Think about how you can contribute to their sustainability goals and be ready to share specific examples of successful strategies you've implemented in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of the local community and how Baltic can further engage with it. Highlighting your knowledge of regional partnerships and potential collaborations will demonstrate your strategic thinking and commitment to public value.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development & Enterprise
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Development & Enterprise position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV:Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your achievements in income generation, partnership development, and strategic planning. Use quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Write a Strong Cover Letter:Your cover letter should express your passion for the arts and your vision for the role. Discuss how your background aligns with Baltic's mission and values, and provide specific examples of how you can contribute to their future success.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE BALTIC CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART
✨Understand Baltic's Vision and Values
Before the interview, take some time to research Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art's mission, vision, and values. Understanding their commitment to creativity and sustainability will help you align your answers with what they stand for.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a Director of Development & Enterprise, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully developed income generation strategies or led significant projects that align with organisational goals.
✨Prepare for Questions on Income Generation
Expect questions about your experience with income generation strategies, including brand partnerships and sponsorships. Be ready to discuss specific initiatives you've led and the outcomes achieved, as this role heavily focuses on these areas.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Skills
This position requires working closely with the CEO and Chair, so be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with senior leadership in the past. Share examples that showcase your ability to build relationships and drive positive change through teamwork.
