Director

Glastonbury Abbey; Glastonbury; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned heritage organisation in Glastonbury is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director to lead its strategic direction following the retirement of a longstanding leader. The role includes overseeing conservation, visitor experience, and enhancing public engagement, ensuring financial sustainability. This position offers the opportunity for fresh leadership and innovative thinking in a culturally significant environment, with responsibilities including fostering partnerships and driving community involvement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within the cultural or heritage sectors.
• Strong understanding of financial sustainability and commercial performance.
• Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction for Glastonbury Abbey.
• Oversee conservation and interpretation initiatives.
• Enhance the Abbey's public profile and partnerships.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial management

Community engagement

Job description

• Contract:Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week).Flexible working will be considered
• Location:Glastonbury, Somerset
• Reports to:Chair of Trustees
• Closing date:13 February 2026
• Interviews:9–10 March 2026

Glastonbury Abbey is appointing a new Director following the retirement ofJanet Bell MBE, whose leadership has helped establish the Abbey as a financially resilient and nationally recognised heritage organisation.

This senior executive role combines strategic leadership with responsibility for conservation, visitor experience,interpretation,learning, commercial performance and organisational culture. An independent charity and scheduled ancient monument, Glastonbury Abbey welcomes nearly 180,000 visitors annually and operates without core grant funding. The Abbey comprises nationally significant archaeological remains, an accredited museum, historic buildings and 36 acres of landscaped grounds, alongside a vibrant programme of events, learning and community engagement.

Reporting to the Chair of Trustees and working with an experienced Senior Leadership Team, the Director will be responsible for strategic direction, financial sustainability, conservation and interpretation, and strengthening the Abbey’s public profile and partnerships. This isan attractive careeropportunityofferingscope fornew thinking,fresh leadership and ambition.