Gallery jobs in United Kingdom

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Before applying, you must contact Andrew Abbott to obtain further information about the role.

The Role

Geelong Gallery is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to take on the role of Director & CEO. This pivotal leadership position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Australia’s most respected regional galleries. Reporting to the Board, the Director & CEO is responsible for driving the Gallery’s artistic and business vision, ensuring its ongoing success and relevance in a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

The role encompasses the delivery of strategic goals of the Gallery, with a focus on creative leadership, operational excellence, community engagement, and the successful realisation of the Gallery’s ambitious redevelopment plan. The Director & CEO will work collaboratively with the Board, staff, stakeholders, and community to elevate the Gallery’s profile locally, nationally, and internationally.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Leadership: Setting and driving the Gallery’s artistic, operational, and business direction, ensuring alignment with its vision, strategic objectives, and financial sustainability.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with key partners, including government bodies, sponsors, donors, and community groups, to secure vital funding and support.
• Artistic Excellence: Enhancing the Gallery’s reputation through innovative exhibitions, the development of its significant collection, and impactful education programs.
• Governance and Operational Management: Overseeing governance frameworks, compliance, and risk management, while leading a talented and diverse team to foster a healthy organisational culture and ensure efficient resource and financial management.
• Advocacy and Development: Championing the Gallery’s redevelopment project, promoting its cultural and economic value, and securing the resources necessary for its success.

To excel in this role, the Director & CEO will demonstrate:

• Inspirational Leadership: A proven ability to inspire, manage, and motivate a team while fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Expertise in the Arts: A deep understanding of the arts sector, including collection management, exhibition development, and contemporary practices.
• Strategic Vision: The capacity to think creatively and strategically, aligning the Gallery’s operations with its long-term goals and external opportunities.
• Financial and Operational Acumen: Demonstrated success in overseeing budgets, driving fundraising initiatives, board reporting and governance, and managing resources effectively.
• Stakeholder Management: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences, including community members, sponsors, government officials, and Board members.
• Resilience and Adaptability: The capability to navigate challenges, manage competing priorities, and lead through periods of growth and transformation.

The Organisation

Established in 1896, Geelong Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected public art institutions. It plays a vital role in the cultural life of the Geelong region, showcasing a world-class collection of Australian and international art alongside innovative exhibitions and education programs.

Situated in the heart of Geelong’s thriving arts precinct, the Gallery is a cornerstone of the city’s designation as a UNESCO City of Design. Its mission is to enrich lives through art by fostering creativity, learning, and cultural connection. As it embarks on an exciting phase of transformation, the Gallery aims to enhance its facilities and expand its reach, securing its position as a leader in Australia’s cultural landscape.

This role offers an extraordinary opportunity to lead a significant cultural institution through a period of growth and transformation. This role is ideal for an experienced leader who is passionate about the arts, experienced in driving organisational excellence, and committed to engaging key stakeholders and diverse communities through culture.

How to apply

To receive a candidate brief, or to arrange a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Andrew Abbott, Partner at Fish Nankivell, on 0401 712 953.

Applications close on Thursday, 30 January 2025. A concurrent search is being conducted.

Applications comprising a CV and cover letter should be emailed to Andrew Abbott.

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?

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