Managing Director (Part-time)

Background

Engage is a professional visual arts organisation of  over 30 members. It is an integral part of the Galway visual arts scene. Our artists work locally, nationally and Internationally. Engage is constantly evolving to provide the best service to our members and by extension the wider artistic community. Engage has adopted best practice examples in its operations and policies. Engage strives to offer the best value for money for to our members and develop a sustainable model. Engage Art Studios is the largest studio group in Galway city, with 6 studios located in Francis St in the heart of the City and a further 7 located a short walk away in our new premises in Churchfields Lower Salthill.

Founded in 2004, Engage supports contemporary artists in a professional environment. Engage is supported by the Arts Council and the Galway City Council. Engage provides an atmosphere of creativity, production, inspiration and opportunity for working artists in the Galway area. The unique studio Engage strives to promote our artists via feedback, an information network, exhibitions, publicity and involvement with other Galway arts organisations. As well as aiming to promote the studios as a centre for visual artists.

Engage is aware of its role in keeping artists in Galway and the west, thus we prioritise ambitious, young, professional and emerging artists when reviewing applicants. There are 13 private studios (separate locking doors) and a fully equipped office and digital suite and workshop. Both buildings are safe and well lit. Studios range in size from 80 to 260 sq. feet.  Engage also offers Orbital membership, which allows access to our facilities and to exhibitions.

job description

The Managing Director is responsible for the day-to-day administrative and operational management of Engage Art Studios studios facilities in both Churchfields and St Francis St, Orbital membership,  Workshop and Gallery. This role demands excellent communication,  organisational and leadership skills. Engage Art Studios has a long history of  supporting artists and delivering an ambitious contemporary arts programme. The successful candidate will be expected to continue to develop and promote an excellent artistic programme which will be of benefit to Engage Art STtudios, it’s member and the wider community in the Galway Region. 

Key Areas of Responsibility:

  • Oversee the day-to-day operational management of Engage Art Studios 

  • Manage and maintain the organisation’s administrative and operational systems, including: the financial management, HR, Health and Safety, governance and compliance.​

  • Securing Funding from both Public and Private sources. 

  • The Managing Director is supported by a dedicated Board of Directors, and an education coordinator. 

  • Promote professional development opportunities for members through, for example, curatorial and artist exchanges, residencies, workshops and community outreach initiatives.

  • Management and overseeing of the Artistic Programme


Financial Management

  • Manage and develop revenue streams, including earned income opportunities and public and private grant applications.

  • Liaise with administrative staff on budget planning and forecasting.

  • Present bi-monthly management reports to the Board of Directors on the financial health of the organisation.

Main Criteria

A relevant third level qualification or  minimum of 2 years relevant experience in a managerial, development or co-ordination role is essential, ideally within the creative sector.

  • Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary venue is desired 

  • A strong awareness/ experience  of the arts/ creative sector is required 

  • Demonstrable experience of successful bursary/grant applications and/or fundraising experience is desirable.

  • You should be located within easy access of Galway City, Ireland.

  •  A full driving licence is an advantage.

Terms

  • Flexible working hours (25 hours or 3 days per week) 

  • Some evening and/or weekend work is expected during busy periods with a time-off in lieu system in operation.

  • Annual salary will be €28,000 (pro-rata) 

  • The contract will initially be for 8 months with the role being reviewed in January 2022.

Application Process

please send your CV and a cover letter to engageartstudios@gmail.com with “Job Application”  in the subject line.

Closing date for applications is 9th April 

Interviews will take place via Zoom the week of April 19th 

 

Engage Art Studios in funded by the Arts Council of Ireland and Galway City Council