Royal School of Needlework
At an exciting time of transformation, the Royal School of Needlework (RSN) is seeking a Director of Commercial and Design, a new role, that has been created to play a pivotal role in their commercial planning and operational delivery, leading the RSN’s marketing, communications, retail and creative studio operations.
About the RSN
Embroidery is an international language. For centuries, embroidery has played a compelling role in helping societies and individuals impart knowledge, tell stories and influence behaviour. The practice of embroidery is also increasingly recognised for its therapeutic and beneficial impact on mental health and well-being, as well as the pure enjoyment of creating a piece of art.
The RSN was established in 1872 at a small single site in London to revive and teach the art of hand embroidery. Since their humble beginnings, they have expanded their activities and extended their reach worldwide, gaining an international reputation for the knowledge, expertise and skills of their tutors and the excellence of work in their professional studio.
Based at Hampton Court Palace in south-west London, the RSN offers an education programme for everyone, from beginners to those pursuing hand embroidery as a professional career. It shares its knowledge, skills, and heritage through talks, tours, exhibitions, and online resources.
About the role
The RSN is seeking a Director of Commercial and Design to join them at a time of organisational change, supporting the Chief Executive and senior team in delivering their transformational journey to grow, develop, and extend the reach and impact of their work.
This is a new role, central to the future of the organisation, working with colleagues across the RSN to develop, lead and deliver their core commercial strategy.
The Director of Commercial and Design must share a passion for the RSN’s mission and a determination to evolve their operations, identifying new commercial opportunities, income-generating ideas and collaborations, and developing robust business plans for each new income stream.
The role requires someone with excellent commercial acumen and proven experience in growing and developing business opportunities and strategic partnerships within either the commercial, retail or third sectors.
The Director of Commercial and Design will have the opportunity to draw on the history, expertise and enthusiasm of the whole organisation, playing a central role in delivering financial sustainability through the development of commercial products and services which support the RSN’s objectives.
Working with colleagues, the role will ensure delivery of an outstanding customer experience and an excellent retail offer, continuing to develop and build on the RSN’s studio and building strategic relationships as a respected commercial and creative voice in the world of creative arts.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the team, helping to leverage the many strengths and rich history of the RSN and using your well-developed commercial leadership and expertise to inspire, innovate and drive the RSN’s reach, revenue and reputation.
Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 20th August 2025.
To apply for this job please visit www.peridotpartners.co.uk.