Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire one of the UK's top orchestras while shaping its artistic and educational vision.
- Company: The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, a pioneer in period performance and community engagement.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence cultural impact and work with passionate musicians.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the arts and education while leading a creative organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, strategic leadership, and a passion for music and education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equality, diversity, and artistic excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment is one of the world's leading ensembles, recognised internationally for its pioneering approach to period performance, its musician-led governance, and its commitment to artistic excellence, education, and social impact. For nearly 40 years, the OAE has brought historically informed performance to broad audiences through bold programming, international touring, and a distinctive sound rooted in research and experimentation; brought to concert halls across the globe in new and innovative ways. The OAE's rehearsal and operating base is within a London comprehensive. This has been a nationally acclaimed residency at Acland Burghley School in Camden, embedding musicians in a comprehensive school environment and creating new opportunities for young people to connect directly with orchestral music. The effect on students and passion by the musicians is palpable.
This is a significant leadership opportunity to chair one of the UK's most distinctive cultural organisations. As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership, oversee effective governance, and support the OAE's continued artistic ambition, organisational strength, and educational impact. You will work closely with the Chief Executive, trustees, and musicians, guiding the Board's oversight of a fast-moving, creative organisation. You will also act as a key ambassador for the orchestra, representing its work externally and supporting fundraising and partnership development.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure effective governance and fulfil all legal and regulatory responsibilities.
- Shape Board agendas that reflect organisational priorities, sector developments, and emerging opportunities.
- Lead constructive Board discussions and support clear, timely decision-making.
- Act as an ambassador for the OAE, building external relationships that strengthen its artistic, educational, and community impact.
- Support and champion fundraising efforts alongside the Development team.
- Foster strong relationships across the musician led governance structure and the wider organisation.
- Lead Board meetings (four per year) and manage matters arising between meetings.
About You
- Experience of effective governance within a charity, arts organisation, or similarly complex environment.
- Strategic leadership skills, with sound judgement and an ability to balance ambition with stewardship.
- Confidence and credibility in external engagement, including fundraising and advocacy.
- Strong relationship building skills and a collaborative leadership style.
- Experience chairing meetings and guiding organisations through both opportunity and challenge.
- A genuine commitment to the artistic values, educational mission, and musician led ethos of the OAE.
How to Apply
All applications are being handled by our executive search partners at GatenbySanderson. For an informal and confidential conversation, please contact: Oliver Startup or Rebekah Herz-Bauman. The initial term is three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to two further terms. The OAE is committed to equality, diversity, and creating an inclusive environment for all.
To view the job description and person specification, please scroll to the bottom of the page, tick to agree to the privacy policy, then click 'Continue to full details'.
Recruitment Timetable
- Closing date: Monday 23rd March
- Preliminary Interviews: w/c 6th & 13th April
- Final Panel Interviews: w/c 11th May
How to Apply
- Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.
- Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
- Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.
- Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.
Chair | London, UK employer: GatenbySanderson
Contact Detail:
GatenbySanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair | London, UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with musicians or arts leaders. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Be an ambassador for yourself! When you meet someone, share your passion for the arts and your vision for the OAE. Make sure they remember you and what you stand for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the OAE's recent projects and initiatives. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also in the organisation’s mission and impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair | London, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand the OAE and what we stand for. Dive into our mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your application to show how you align with our artistic vision and educational goals.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to address the person specification criteria directly, using specific examples from your experience. We want to see how your skills and background make you the perfect fit for this leadership role.
Keep It Professional but Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for music and the arts, and why you’re excited about the opportunity to chair the OAE. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Double-Check Everything: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough once-over. Check for typos, ensure your contact details are correct, and confirm that you’ve included all necessary documents. A polished application shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know the OAE Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment's history, mission, and recent projects. Understanding their commitment to period performance and educational impact will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your strategic leadership experience and how you've successfully guided organisations through challenges. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to foster collaboration and build strong relationships within a governance structure.
✨Prepare for Fundraising Conversations
Since fundraising is a key part of the role, think about your past experiences in this area. Be ready to share innovative ideas on how to engage potential donors and partners, demonstrating your confidence and credibility in external engagement.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that show your genuine interest in the OAE's future and how you can contribute. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the organisation aligns with your values.
