Executive Assistant to the Festival Director

About the Organisation

Since 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival has existed to promote the exchange of ideas and deepen understanding between cultures through an unparalleled global celebration of exceptional performing arts. We are the original festival and bring some of the most exciting and creative artists working today to audiences from around the world.

Each August, we present the finest and most original performers and ensembles from the worlds of opera, music, dance and theatre over three weeks in venues across the city of Edinburgh. Throughout the rest of the year, we devise bespoke experiences to inspire our audiences and communities, to unlock their creativity and cultural curiosity. Our vision is simple: to provide the deepest experience of the highest quality art for the broadest possible audience.

About the Role

Behind every great Festival Director is someone who helps make things all run in harmony. As Executive Assistant to Festival Director Nicola Benedetti, you’ll be an organised, proactive force. You’ll manage a diary that spans time zones, anticipate what’s needed before anyone asks, handle VIPs, board members and government officials with discretion, and keep a hundred moving parts perfectly in time. A deep love of the performing arts is essential, but passion alone won’t be enough. We need a seasoned executive assistant, perhaps from supporting a CEO, managing director, chair or chief of staff, who brings polish, sound judgement and relentless drive. If you’re a brilliant organiser who also loves live performance, this is a front-row seat.

How to Apply

• Download: the full job description HERE
• Apply: via the dedicated jobs portal HERE
• Deadline: 9am on Monday 30 November - due to the high volume of applications received for this role, it is possible the job opening will close before the application closing date. We advise you to submit your application as soon as possible.
• Interviews: will be held on 03 and 04 December 2026.

EIF is an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and applications from candidates of all communities and backgrounds. Inclusive culture is the foundation for a successful workplace, this is a key focus for us across our staff, our artists, and our audiences. To increase the diversity of our staff, our recruitment includes the Rooney Rule - regarding ethnicity – and Disability Confident Scheme for interviews. For more information go to our website.

Funded by The City of Edinburgh Council and Creative Scotland.
Registered charity number SC004694.