Deputy Director for the National College of Creative Industries

South Essex College; Thurrock; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in the United Kingdom is seeking a dynamic Deputy Director for Creative and Performing Arts. This senior leadership role requires a visionary leader to shape curriculum development, industry engagement, and departmental growth. The ideal candidate will have experience in arts education, proven strategic leadership skills, and the ability to inspire a talented team. Join us to make a lasting impact on the future of creative education.

Benefits

35 days’ holiday + bank holidays + college closure days

Employee Assistance Programme

Free Parking Permit

Pension – 23.68% college contribution

Continued Professional Development

Free breakfast at most campuses

Subsidised eye tests and flu injection contributions

Access to gyms and cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Proven track record in creative or performing arts education.
• Experience in curriculum design and staff development.
• Ability to inspire and motivate others.

Responsibilities

• Drive departmental growth and performance.
• Inspire and lead a talented team of educators.
• Shape industry-relevant experiences for students.

Skills

Curriculum design

Strategic leadership

Inspiring and motivating others

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Experience in creative or performing arts education

Job description

Advert Text Never has there been a more exciting time to join our Creative and Performing Arts department as we embark on an ambitious journey to elevate arts education and inspire the next generation of creative talent. We are seeking a visionary and dynamic Deputy Director – Creative and Performing Arts and the National College of Creative Industries to play a key strategic role in shaping the future of our students, our department, NCCI and our contribution to the creative industries.

Following a recent restructure, this newly created senior leadership position will be pivotal in establishing our department as a recognised centre of excellence for creative and performing arts. Working in close partnership with the Director, the Deputy Director will provide strategic direction, lead innovation, and champion excellence across curriculum development, industry engagement, student experience, teaching practice and the development of NCCI. Together, you will ensure our provision is forward-thinking, industry-connected, and transformative for learners at all levels.

As Deputy Director, you will drive departmental growth and performance, ensuring our curriculum meets the needs of diverse learners across Further and Higher Education. You will inspire and lead a talented team of educators, fostering an ambitious and inclusive culture where both staff and students can thrive. Your leadership will shape industry‑relevant experiences – from performances, exhibitions, and collaborative projects to employer partnerships that open real‑world pathways for our learners. You will play a crucial role in strengthening our industry networks, keeping us at the forefront of creative practice and employability.

We are looking for an exceptional leader with a proven track record in creative or performing arts education. You will bring experience in curriculum design, staff development, and strategic leadership, coupled with the ability to inspire and motivate others. A passion for innovation, digital integration, and interdisciplinary approaches is essential, as is a deep commitment to driving student success. Your communication and organisational skills will enable you to build strong, productive relationships with staff, students, and external partners alike.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant and lasting impact on the future of creative education – not only within our college but across the wider arts community. We offer a supportive, forward-thinking environment where innovation is encouraged and professional growth is a priority.

We offer :

• 35 days’ holiday + bank holidays + college closure days
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Free Parking Permit (subject to eligibility)
• Pension – 23.68% college contribution
• Continued Professional Development
• Free breakfast at most campuses (term time only)
• Additional benefits including subsidised eye tests, flu injection contributions,
• access to gyms, cycle to work scheme, RAC discounts, and more (
• depending on campus)

Join us and help shape the future of arts education – inspiring students, empowering staff, and strengthening the creative industries for years to come.

ONLY APPLICATIONS MADE VIA OUR COLLEGE E-RECRUIT WEBSITE WILL BE CONSIDERED