N S F

• The Director will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the business of the NSF with the support of the staff and the Board of Directors.
• The Director will develop and implement a comprehensive artistic vision for the NSF, aligning with the organisation’s mission and values.
• The Director will collaborate with the Board of Directors, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the organisation’s strategic goals.
• The Director will be responsible for securing and managing funding from relevant agencies: public and private sources, for the general activities of the National Sculpture Factory, including targeting project funding opportunities for specific projects and initiatives.
• The Director will facilitate and extend the NSF’s key role in the development and interpretation of sculpture and visual art practice in Ireland.
• The Director will foster partnerships, national and international, to maximise opportunities for artists and help promote the profile of the NSF.
• The Director will understand how to develop the NSF‘s role as a centre of visual arts activity in Ireland and in a wider international context.
• The Director will oversee the curation and production of high-quality exhibitions, showcasing the work of emerging and established artists.
• The Director will cultivate relationships with artists, providing support and guidance throughout their creative process.

Person specifications for the appointment of the Director of NSF:

• MA in Arts Administration
• Masters degree in Art History, Fine Arts, and/or a related field.
• Extensive experience in the contemporary art scene, with a proven track record of curating exhibitions and managing artistic programs.
• A deep understanding of contemporary art practices, trends, and critical discourse.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and nurture emerging artistic talent.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with artists, staff, and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Sound financial management and planning skills
• A passion for contemporary art and a commitment to supporting artists creative endeavours
• At least 5 years’ experience of working in management within an arts organisation

Experience of:

• Working directly with artists
• Management of staff or project teams
• Setting and managing budgets, developing 3-year funding plans and a business plan
• Fundraising and or experience of earning income from agencies both public and private
• Experience of working with key stakeholders e.g. local authorities and other government and educational agencies
• Experience of strategic networks locally nationally and internationally
• Experience of capital development / facilities management
• Experience of programming at local national and international level
  Have ideas on building and engaging diverse audiences

Skills and abilities:

• The ability to develop strategic policy for the National Sculpture Factory and to deliver programmes in line with agreed policies.
• The ability to exercise imagination, drive and initiative in developing and maintaining the scope of the National Sculpture Factory’s activities.
• The ability to ensure the effective use of the Factory as a facility for the production and promotion of sculpture and at times other activities.
• The ability to communicate, negotiate and generate a generous culture around NSF with a wide range of diverse people, including professional artists, other arts organisations and funding bodies, such as the Arts Council and Cork City Council.
• The ability to manage and motivate staff of the Factory.
• The ability to establish good relationships with colleagues and external agencies.
• The ability to prepare and present reports and documents to the Board and other agencies.
• The ability to prepare and identify budgets in agreement with the Board who have a legal responsibility for the Company.
• The ability to communicate and represent the National Sculpture Factory and its activities nationally and internationally.