Director of Programming

Director of Programming

Edinburgh International Book Festival Closing date: Thu, 24 Sep 2026

Artform: Literature
Role: Curation
Contract: Permanent
Scotland

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

The Director of Programming leads the development and delivery of the Edinburgh International Book Festival’s programme.

Job Description

Contract
Full-time, permanent

Salary
£50k per annum

The Director of Programming is responsible for translating the Festival's overall creative vision and thematic framing into an ambitious, distinctive and coherent programme, and for leading the team, partnerships, resources and processes required to deliver it.

The Director of Programming works in close creative partnership with the Festival Director, bringing their own ideas, expertise and networks to develop that vision into an outstanding programme, while taking overall responsibility for the programming function and its delivery.

The Director of Programming will identify writers, ideas, partnerships and programme opportunities that bring the Festival's strategic priorities and Programming Principles to life. They will combine excellent editorial and cultural judgement with a strong understanding of audiences, ensuring the programme celebrates outstanding writing while engaging imaginatively with the ideas and questions shaping contemporary life.

They will maintain and develop an extensive network across publishing, literature and the wider cultural sector in Scotland, the UK and internationally, ensuring the Festival remains deeply rooted in Scotland and outward-looking in its reach.

This is a high-profile role which requires travel for research and development and to represent the Festival within the UK and internationally. A significant proportion of publisher research meetings take place in London during the autumn.

For more information on key responsibilities please see full Job Description on Edinburgh International Book Festival Website.

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Director of Programming
  • Salary: £50k+
  • Hours: Full time
  • Artform: Literature
  • Role: Curation
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Thu, 24 Sep 2026
  • Location: Scotland | view on Google Maps

Job: Director of Programming

Job: Director of Programming

Organisation: Edinburgh International Book Festival

Postcode: EH2 4YN

How to Apply

Please complete the online application, using the links featured on our website: edbookfest.co.uk/about-us/jobs

Ensure you upload your current CV and an application letter, along with answering our recruitment portal questions. Your letter should outline your suitability for the post and why you wish to work at the
Book Festival. You may include any other information to support your application.

Closing date for applications: 17:00, on Thursday 24 September 2026.

Interviews to be held: w/c 5 October held in central Edinburgh or online.