End of the Road’s international reputation as the UK’s best independent, multi-arts festival is unrivalled. We are seeking an experienced and proactive Marketing Manager to cover a period of maternity leave. This is a freelance contract role, responsible for delivering our full marketing and communications strategy, managing campaigns, overseeing budgets, and leading our small marketing team to success.

You will work closely with our core team, as well as line-managing key external partners, including our PR agency and Graphic Designer.

The role requires a flexible weekly commitment, averaging the equivalent of a part-time contract but with increased days during the busy summer period.

The contract schedule is as follows:

• Onboarding/Handover (Approx. 2 weeks): 2 days per week in the office
• Main Contract Period (March 2 – October 30, 2026):
  • March – May: 3 days per week (minimum 2 days in office)
  • June – August: 4 days per week (minimum 3 days in office)
  • 28 August – 8 September: 12 days on site.
  • September – October: 2 days per week (minimum 2 days in office)

Rate / Fee depending on experience

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver the overall marketing and communications strategy as laid out by the Head of Marketing.
• Deliver and monitor campaigns across all marketing channels, and be capable of proactive/reactive campaign creation when required.
• Draft newsletters and run public competitions.
• Manage and fulfil all online sponsorship commitments.
• Line manage the Social Media Manager, PR agency and Graphic Designer.
• Deliver the advertising strategy in both print and online.
• Manage the marketing budget and handle PO raising.
• Conduct audience research to inform strategy.
• Act as Programme sub-editor and coordinator.
• Serve as the artwork liaison for all announcements and as the point of contact for/Line Manager of the graphic designer.
• Manage the internal Photography/Film Team.
• Maintain and update the website.
• Perform essential proofreading across all public-facing materials.

Skills:

• Proven experience in a similar senior marketing role, preferably within the music or events industry, is essential.
• Strong strategic planning and execution skills, with the ability to pivot and react to changing circumstances.
• Excellent written communication skills with experience drafting newsletters, press releases, and advertising copy.
• Experience with budget management and financial oversight.
• Familiarity with website maintenance (e.g., WordPress or similar CMS).
• Demonstrated ability to line manage and coordinate internal and external teams (PR, design, social media).
• Strong organisational skills, with meticulous attention to detail (e.g., proofreading, coordinating artwork).
• An affinity for and understanding of End of the Road Festival’s unique voice and position within the market is essential.
• Be creative, proactive, and capable of working independently while managing multiple complex deadlines.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and cover letter. Applications will be accepted until 14th January

As an organisation, we celebrate and support members from all backgrounds and are working to build an adaptable culture of mutual allyship and an environment where everyone is comfortable being themselves 100% of the time. We actively encourage applications from people of every race, gender, religion, age, disability and the LGBTQIA+ community.