Chair of the Board of Trustees - The Guildhall School Trust

GUILDHALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading performing arts institution in London is seeking a dynamic Chair of the Board of Trustees. This voluntary role involves guiding the Board on governance, financial management, and fundraising. Ideal candidates will possess proven leadership and significant fundraising experience to support the institution's mission. This opportunity is crucial to shaping the future of the arts and making a lasting impact on emerging artists.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership and strategic thinking skills are essential.
• Significant experience in fundraising to support projects.
• Strong understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in setting strategy and culture.
• Secure financial support for scholarships and projects.
• Ensure effective governance and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Fundraising experience

Charity governance understanding

Communication abilities

Relationship management

Job description

This vacancy closes on 16 October 2025 - please ignore the close date of 2 October listed on Guardian. Full details can be found visiting the apply link.

Location: London / Remote

Time Commitment: Approx. 2–3 days per month

Remuneration: Voluntary

Are you an experienced leader passionate about supporting the next generation of performing and production artists for the creative industries?

The Guildhall School Trust is seeking a dynamic Chair of the Board of Trustees to lead our charity into its next chapter. As Chair, you will guide the Board ensuring its strategic focus on robust governance, effective financial management and fundraising, and successful delivery of its mission.

As we approach Guildhall School’s 150th anniversary in 2030, you will lead the way in securing philanthropic support for its significant funding priorities, including scholarships, bursaries, and capital projects. Working closely with the Principal and Chair of the Board of Governors of Guildhall School, as well as fellow trustees, you will help shape our direction, monitor performance, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.

You will chair board meetings, foster a positive board culture, support trustee development, and act as a key ambassador for both the charity and the Guildhall School.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in setting strategy, culture, and direction
• Provide leadership in securing new financial support for scholarships, bursaries, and capital projects
• Support the management of the Trust’s endowment to benefit young artists and practitioners
• Ensure effective governance, accountability, and compliance
• Act as spokesperson and champion for the charity
• Facilitate effective board meetings and promote trustee engagement

We’re looking for someone with

• Proven leadership and strategic thinking skills
• Significant fundraising experience
• Strong understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities
• A genuine commitment to the future of music, drama, and production arts
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Experience managing senior relationships and building consensus

This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to help shape the future of a world-leading performing arts institution and make a lasting difference on the next generation of artists.

Deadline: Thursday 16 October 2025. We plan to meet with potential candidates in late October/early November.

To apply, please visit our website via the button below.