Co-Director: Open Book

Job Description

Posted on: 17th December, 2025. Closing date: 14th January, 2026

Apply by 12pm on Wednesday 14 January for this co-director role based in Edinburgh.

Apply to join the leadership team as Co-Director of Open Book and play a role in helping adults in Scotland make connections through literature. Alongside Claire Urquhart, the new Co-Director of Open Book will play a key role in the day to day operations and future development of Open Book, building on the strength of its foundation and operations over the past 12 years which mean that Open Book is now a multi year funded organisation with the stability that regular funding brings.

After many working together as Founders and Co Directors, Marjorie Lotfi is now stepping back from her role as Director, but will continue to serve as an advisor and Trustee on the Open Book Board of Trustees. The advertised role has a start date of 1 May (with some/ limited flexibility), taking over from Marjorie who will step down in late May 2026.

Open Book are looking for a dynamic individual who is passionate about using literature to support the lives of adults in community settings. You will be confident in decision making, and experienced in working with boards, funders and partners. You will also bring strong vision and leadership to the role, have excellent communication skills and a deep understanding of Scotland’s cultural landscape. You will have three years experience in a similar leadership role, or be ready to take the next step up in charity leadership.

This is an exciting opportunity to play an important role in a charity that has championed supporting individuals in a wide range of community settings for over 12 years.

Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm, 3 4 days per week. There is some flexibility as to the working days though an expectation that two of those days will overlap with the other Director.

Location: (non negotiable) in person role, based in the Open Book office at 11 Tipperlinn Road, Edinburgh EH10 5ET, although the job does on occasion involve some out of office work – e.g. attending Festivals / supporting groups in situ.