Managing Director

Job title:                     Managing Director of Portico

Location:                    Portico of Ards, Portaferry, Northern Ireland

Reports to:                 Chair of the Board of Trustees

Salary:                        £38,000 – 45,000 (Based on experience)

Contract type:        Full-Time, Permanent

Hours of work:         37.5 hours per week (including evening and weekend work)

Company Description

Portico is a vibrant arts and heritage venue in Portaferry, Northern Ireland. Based in a Grade A listed building, which was fully restored 10 years ago, it is dedicated to the upkeep of the building and to enriching the community at large, through diverse artistic programming, heritage preservation and inclusive engagement. As a not-for-profit organisation, Portico thrives on collaboration, creativity and community spirit.

Role Description

The Director will lead the delivery of Portico’s strategic plan and oversee all aspects of its operations. Key responsibilities include shaping and running a vibrant arts programme, managing events, driving business development (with a focus on their heritage building), securing funding through fundraising and grant writing, and building strong stakeholder relationships, ensuring Portico continues to grow as a thriving cultural hub.

Required criteria

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience at a managerial level in the creative industries or a closely related field
• Strong organisational, planning and leadership skills
• Proven success in grant writing and fundraising
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Demonstrated financial and budget management experience
• Experience in Business development and income generation

Desired criteria

• Knowledge of the Northern Irish arts and cultural sector
• Knowledge of the wider arts sectors in GB and Ireland
• Previous recent experience managing staff and volunteers
• Skills in marketing, PR and social media