Live & Local

Arts Council England; East Midlands, West Midlands; Remote; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Arts Council England is seeking an inspirational Executive Director to lead Live & Local, a rural arts organisation, into its next chapter of growth and impact. Reporting to the Board, you will oversee artistic, operational and financial direction to deliver our strategic objectives.

You will build partnerships with funders, local authorities and communities, champion accessible cultural experiences, and ensure financial sustainability through diverse income streams.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in senior leadership within arts, culture or not-for-profit sectors.
• Experience in strategy development, budgeting and governance.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing complex partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic, artistic and operational direction of Live & Local to achieve its business plan and long-term objectives.
• Provide governance oversight with the Board and senior management team.
• Oversee budgeting, reporting, and income generation to ensure financial sustainability.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Arts Council England, funders and strategic partners.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial acumen

Grant funding

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Thu, 08 Oct 2026">published - Thu, 08 Oct 2026

Job Summary

Lead Live & Local's strategic, financial and operational direction, ensuring the delivery of high-quality arts and cultural programmes across rural communities. Working with the Board, staff & partners, to drive growth, secure funding, build relationships and champion accessible cultural experiences

Job Description

Live & Local is seeking an inspirational and strategic Executive Director to lead our award-winning rural arts organisation into its next chapter of growth and impact. As a National Portfolio Organisation funded by Arts Council England, we connect communities across the Midlands with high-quality arts, film and cultural experiences, working alongside a network of approximately 300 voluntary groups and community partners.
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will provide visionary leadership, overseeing the artistic, operational and financial success of the organisation. You will be responsible for delivering our strategic objectives, ensuring financial sustainability, developing new opportunities and maintaining strong relationships with funders, local authorities, community organisations and arts sector partners.
The role requires a confident leader who can balance strategic planning with operational oversight. You will lead a skilled senior management team, oversee organisational performance, champion innovation and drive the delivery of programmes including live performance, community film initiatives, artist development and place-based cultural projects.
You will act as the organisation's ambassador, representing Live & Local at local, regional and national levels, advocating for the value of arts and culture within communities and ensuring our work remains relevant, responsive and impactful. The postholder will also take responsibility for securing and diversifying income streams, leading major funding applications, managing risk, supporting governance processes and ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who is passionate about arts, culture and community engagement. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a respected organisation with a strong reputation for delivering accessible, high-quality cultural experienc

Job Requirements

We are looking for a highly experienced senior leader with a proven track record within the arts, cultural, community or not-for-profit sectors. Applicants should demonstrate substantial experience in organisational leadership, business planning, staff management and strategic development.
You will have strong financial management skills, including budget oversight, financial monitoring and resource planning, alongside a successful history of securing grant funding and maintaining productive relationships with public and private funders. Experience working with Boards, Trustees or governance structures is essential.
A thorough understanding of the arts and cultural landscape, governance, risk management, safeguarding, employment legislation and equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility principles is required. Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, together with the ability to build partnerships across multiple sectors.
Ideally, you

Job Responsibilities

Lead the strategic, artistic and operational direction of Live & Local, ensuring delivery of the organisation's business plan, mission and long-term objectives. Work closely with the Board of Directors to support effective governance, performance monitoring and risk management.
Provide leadership to the senior management team, supporting workforce planning, staff development and organisational performance. Oversee all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, reporting, funding applications and income generation activities to ensure financial sustainability.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with Arts Council England, local authorities, funders, artists, community groups and strategic partners. Act as the public face of the organisation, promoting its work and advocating for the value of arts and culture within communities.
Ensure programmes and projects are delivered to a high standard, with effective monitoring, evaluation and impact reporting. Maintain responsibi