Director & CEO

THE HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD; Wakefield; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading public art gallery in Wakefield seeks an experienced Director & CEO to guide its strategic vision and ensure financial sustainability. The role involves fostering a collaborative team culture, engaging with stakeholders, and leading fundraising efforts while promoting modern and contemporary art. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for inspiring a diverse team and broadening community engagement.

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience in a cultural or arts organisation.
• Strong curatorial expertise in modern and contemporary art.
• Proven ability to inspire and lead diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop the gallery's vision with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
• Lead the Executive Team and foster a collaborative culture.
• Build relationships with funders and cultural leaders.
• Drive fundraising strategies to secure long-term support.
• Support the exhibitions programme and acquisitions strategy.

Skills

Senior leadership experience

Strong curatorial expertise

Strategic planning

Fundraising skills

Excellent communication skills

Team leadership ability

Entrepreneurial vision

Commitment to inclusivity

Job description

£90,000 - £100,000 per annum

Permanent

Full-time – 37 hours per week

Hybrid working options available, however there is an expectation to be onsite a minimum of three days per week

Candidates must live, or be willing to relocate, within a reasonable distance of The Hepworth Wakefield. Relocation assistance may be agreed, depending on the circumstances.

Overview

The Hepworth Wakefield has welcomed over 3 million visitors since opening in May 2011 and is now established as one of the most successful public art galleries in the UK, attracting critical acclaim and audiences from around the world. We present an ambitious programme of major exhibitions of the best international modern and contemporary art, alongside innovative displays drawn from Wakefield’s growing art collection.

The Hepworth Wakefield is seeking an experienced, inspirational and entrepreneurial leader to guide the gallery into its next chapter. Reporting to the Chair of the Trust Board, the Director & CEO will set the strategic vision, drive financial sustainability, and champion artistic excellence, community engagement, and commercial growth.

Key responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership - develop and implement the gallery's vision, ensuring sustainability, innovation and compliance, while maximising the potential of its collection and site.
• Team Leadership - lead and inspire the Executive Team and wider staff, fostering a dynamic, inclusive and collaborative working culture with a strong focus on professional development.
• Stakeholder Management & Advocacy - build and nurture relationships with funders, partners and cultural leaders at local, national and international levels, acting as a compelling advocate for the gallery.
• Fundraising - drive ambitious fundraising strategies, cultivating relationships with trusts, foundations, donors and corporate partners to secure long-term support.
• Collection & Exhibitions - support the exhibitions programme and acquisitions strategy, promoting Barbara Hepworth's legacy and strengthening the gallery's reputation for artistic excellence.
• Financial Management - oversee robust financial planning and performance, working closely with the Board and Director of Finance & Operations to align budgets with strategic goals.
• Community Engagement - ensure the gallery remains rooted in its locality, championing learning and engagement programmes that broaden participation and strengthen community impact.
• Communications, Marketing & Digital - guide brand development, digital strategy and audience growth, expanding the gallery's reach and supporting data-driven decision-making.
• Commercial Development - lead the commercial strategy, ensuring innovation and entrepreneurial approaches generate income while staying true to the gallery's cultural mission.

Requirements

• Senior leadership experience in a cultural or arts organisation
• Strong curatorial expertise in modern and contemporary art
• Track record in strategic planning, fundraising and stakeholder engagement
• Excellent communication, advocacy and networking skills
• Proven ability to inspire, motivate and lead diverse teams
• Entrepreneurial vision to diversify and grow income streams
• Commitment to inclusivity, community engagement and the public value of the arts

We are committed to improving diversity within our organisation, and welcome applications from candidates who are under-represented within the arts sector.

For more details, including how to apply, please visit our website via the button below.

Application deadline is Monday 20 October 2025