Senior Editor (FTC)

To work with the Audiences and Programming Teams to ensure that the marketing, reporting and contextualising materials we produce across printed and digital outlets best represents the artists and artworks we present (particularly in classical music) and the distinctive audience experience we want to offer.  The role will have a particular focus on delivering all the contextualising materials for Festival 2026.   
  
To champion a clear and compelling voice for the International Festival. To write and copy edit narrative text across marketing, editorial and corporate communications functions. To commission, brief and edit the work of other contributing writers. 

Job Responsibilities and Deliverables 

• In consultation with the Audiences and Programming Teams to lead in developing how we describe, illuminate and contextualise the artists and artworks we present, with special emphasis on classical music, including:  

• General editorial oversight:   

• advising on concert/event titles  

• writing, copyediting and commissioning marketing copy across our website and campaign materials  

• advising on image, video and music selection in campaign content  

• input into key speeches   

• Editorial oversight and delivery of contextualisation materials:  

• In collaboration with the Audiences and Programming teams, lead on developing a suite of contextualising materials for the programme to ensure that audiences have all the essential information to enjoy the performance, as well as tailored deeper insights to more fully engage in the show, in line with our commitment to a distinctive audience experience, including:  

• planning, commissioning, writing and editing content and copy of our keepsake freesheets, souvenir programmes, web essays and blogs, audio introductions etc.  

• briefing and checking surtitle content  

• input into artist briefing for pre- or post-show talks and in-concert presentation moments    

• input into bespoke interpretation for distinct event formats e.g. dementia-friendly concerts, family concerts, schools programme, Inside Out etc.  

• input into front of house displays that provide further context to performances or the Festival theme   

• advising on content and assisting with copy & editing for pre- and post-show communications   

• Working closely with the Publications Manager ensure the timely delivery of printed and digital materials  

• To champion a clear and compelling brand voice for the International Festival   

• To contribute to the Festival’s brand toolkit, developing the tone of voice guidelines and coaching and training staff to write and edit text accordingly  

• To work with the Brand & Campaigns and Communications & Digital teams, as well as relevant external agencies/freelancers, to write and copy edit consistent and effective copy and key messages for all channels and media  

• To write and copy edit compelling narratives for key pieces of stakeholder-focused communications such as the Annual Review and Annual Accounts with guidance from the Executive Office, Development, Programme and Finance Teams.  

• To commission, brief and review the work of freelance writers and editors, working within agreed budgets and timescales, and ensuring that an excellent and diverse range of voices and perspectives are contributing to Festival content  

• To task manage a project team to deliver our contextualising materials including permanent and temporary staff.  

• To represent the Edinburgh International Festival at public events as required  

• To contribute to cross-organisational projects