Granite Noir 2027 Granite Noir Author Curator (Freelancer) Reports To: Head of Programming Project Dates: June 2026 – February 2027 approx. Contract: This role is offered on a freelance basis. The successful candidate will be responsible for their own Tax and NI contributions Fee: £6,000.00 plusanallowance up to £1000 for expenses Base: Remote, with some meetings in Aberdeen and attendance during the festival Aberdeen Performing Arts is seeking a freelance Author Curator to shape and deliver the programming for Granite Noir 2027, Scotland’s crime and noir writing festival. Now in its 11th year, Granite Noir presents Scottish and international crime writing, with a strong Nordic connection, alongside new voices, cross-genre work, and audience-focused events. Role Overview You will lead on the author strand of the festival programme, shaping and securing writers across headline, mid-list, and emerging levels. Working closely with the Aberdeen Performing Arts team, you will contribute to the wider festival programme while taking primary responsibility for author selection, relationships, and delivery. You will balance headline authors, emerging writers, and local voices while maintaining a clear editorial identity. Key Responsibilities Programming & Editorial Develop the festival theme and programme strands Curate a balanced programme including: Headline events Panels and conversations Local and emerging writers Shape a focused, high-quality author programme across a concentrated festival period Author & Publisher Liaison Act as main contact for authors, agents, and publishers Secure authors early and manage relationships professionally Set clear expectations around fees, travel, and participation Planning & Delivery Build the programme to an agreed timeline Provide complete and accurate event information at booking stage, including: Event format and titles Participants and chairs Technical and scheduling requirements Support planning for book sales, signings, and scheduling Collaboration Work closely with internal teams (Marketing, Operations, Technical, Box Office) Attend planning meetings and maintain clear communication across departments Audience & Commercial Awareness Programme with ticket sales and audience development in mind Support marketing through clear programme structure and timely information Contribute ideas for future growth and audience reach Approximate Key Deliverables & Timeline June–July 2026 – Theme and programming approach September 2026 – Longlist of authors October 2026 – Draft programme November 2026 – Headliners confirmed December 2026 – Final programme locked January 2027 – Full event information and copy delivered Festival period – On-site support Person Specification Experience in literary programming, publishing, or festivals Strong knowledge of crime/noir writing (Scottish and Nordic awareness preferred) Established relationships with publishers and agents Highly organised with the ability to manage deadlines Commercial awareness and understanding of audience appeal Clear communicator, able to work collaboratively and set boundaries Key Working Principles Programming must be delivered to agreed deadlines All event details must be confirmed at booking stage Late changes will be limited and managed through agreed processes Strong communication across teams is expected throughout Contract Details Freelance contract (June 2026 – February 2027 approx.) – working approximately 40 days Fee: £6,000.00 plus an allowance up to £1000 for expenses. Location: Remote, with some meetings in Aberdeen and attendance during the festival How to Apply To apply for the Author Curator role for Granite Noir 2027, visit https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/work-with-us/. As part of your application you will be asked to submit: A short statement of interest Relevant experience Initial thoughts on programming approach The deadline for applications is 14 May 2026 You may wish to apply by video or audio instead of a cover letter and in addition to sending us your CV. To do this please ensure it is saved in an easily accessible format and send via a We Transfer link to [email protected]. Videos should be no longer than 5 minutes long (maximum). If you have access requirements or need additional support to apply or to progress your application, please let us know so we can help - this information will not be a factor in our decision making. We run a Guaranteed Interview Scheme, which offers disabled people or those who are care experienced a guaranteed interview, if they meet the essential criteria for the role. Please let us know in your application if you would like to be considered in the Guaranteed Interview Scheme. We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, ability and perspectives are encouraged.