Artistic Director and Chief Executive

Guardian Jobs; Belfast; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Belfast International Arts Festival is seeking an Artistic Director and Chief Executive to succeed Richard Wakely. This role involves leading the festival, engaging local and international artists, and fostering a vibrant arts community. The festival, established in 1962, is the largest of its kind in Ireland, held annually in October and November.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and grow the annual celebration of contemporary performing arts.
• Engage audiences across Belfast and beyond.

Job description

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Position Overview

Belfast International Arts Festival is seeking an Artistic Director and Chief Executive to succeed Richard Wakely, who will step down at the end of 2025 after leading the organization and curating the festival programme for 13 editions.

The successful candidate will help continue to lead, develop, and grow this vibrant annual celebration of contemporary performing arts from both local and international artists, engaging audiences across Belfast and beyond.

About Belfast International Arts Festival

Established in 1962 as Belfast Festival at Queen’s and rebranded in 2015, it is the largest international festival of contemporary arts in Ireland and one of the oldest in the UK and Ireland. The festival occurs every October and November across various indoor and outdoor venues in Belfast, ranging from large-scale to intimate settings.

Our Values

• Global connections
• Contemporary and interdisciplinary arts practice
• Community, collaboration, and partnership
• Access and diversity

Equality and Inclusion

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and recruiting a diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and identities.

Application Details

For more information on how to apply, click the 'Apply on website' button. All applications must be received by 5pm, Friday 4th July 2025.

For an informal, confidential discussion about the role, contact [e-mail] to arrange an appointment.

Job Details

• Seniority level: Executive
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
• Industry: Advertising Services

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