Artistic Director
Scottish National Jazz Orchestra Closing date: Wed, 30 Sep 2026
- Part time
- £25k-£30k
- Apply now
Wed, 02 Sep 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra is seeking an ambitious and collaborative Artistic Director to lead the artistic direction of the SNJO at an exciting point in its development.
Working closely with our musicians, Board of Trustees, Orchestra Managers and Artistic Advisory Group, the Artistic Director will bring their own artistic vision, experience and networks to shape the Orchestra's next chapter.
This is a distinctive opportunity to work with an exceptional group of musicians, develop innovative and accessible programming, broaden and diversify our audiences, and strengthen the SNJO's profile both nationally and internationally.
Remuneration: A competitive remuneration package will be agreed with the successful candidate, based on experience, responsibilities and the preferred working arrangement.
Contract: Fixed-term contract for three years, with the option to extend by mutual agreement. We are open to discussing a flexible contract structure that meets the needs of both the successful candidate and SNJO. Expected working hours will range anywhere from 12-20 hours per week, depending on the preferred working arrangement.
Deadline: Wednesday 30 September 2026 (23.59 GMT)
Interview 1 (Online): Tuesday 13 or Wednesday 14 October 2026
Interview 2 (in person, Edinburgh): Tuesday 27 October 2026.
Location: Remote, with travel throughout Scotland and elsewhere as required by the SNJO's programme, including attendance at performances, rehearsals, meetings and other relevant activities.
Job Requirements
- Significant experience of artistic leadership, direction or programming within jazz.
- Broad understanding of the contemporary jazz landscape, including established and emerging artists, composers, arrangers, and
repertoire.
- Strong, influential networks across the arts and creative industries.
- Ability to represent and advocate for the SNJO confidently to funders, donors, promoters, artists, and the wider sector.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with musicians, guest artists, staff, Board members and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrable understanding of audience development and the ability to create programming that can engage and broaden
audiences.
- Commitment to developing and delivering an artistic strategy that meets the criteria under which the SNJO is funded by Creative Scotland (Quality & Ambition, Public Engagement, EDI, Environmental Sustainability, Fair Work, International).
Job Responsibilities
- Develop the SNJO's artistic strategy.
- Shape artistic projects, including repertoire, collaborators and personnel.
- Set and maintain standards of excellence within the Orchestra.
- Advocate for the SNJO to a range of stakeholders.
More information can be found on our website.
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Artistic Director
- Salary: £25k-£30k (pro-rata)
- Hours: Part time
- Artform: Music
- Role: Creative
- Contract: Temporary
- Closing date: Wed, 30 Sep 2026
- Location: Remote
How to Apply
For information on how to apply, please visit the link below.
- Contact name: Mark Deering (SNJO Manager)
- Contact email: [email protected]
About Scottish National Jazz Orchestra
The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra (SNJO) is a multiple award-winning orchestra and the UK’s only national jazz big band. Since 1995, the SNJO has championed jazz through performances, original compositions, recordings, and educational outreach programmes.
Together with its youth wing, the Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra (SNYJO), the SNJO aims to nurture emerging talent, create professional opportunities and celebrate Scotland’s contribution to creative music.