At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Manchester's cultural and creative industries, shaping a vibrant cultural landscape.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority with a global cultural influence.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, enhanced parental leave, and fantastic perks.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a commitment to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Manchester's cultural identity and community growth.
- Qualifications: Proven leader in culture or creative industries with strong partnership skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
About The Role
Shape one of the world’s most distinctive cultural cities. Manchester is a global cultural city with a powerful local identity. Culture is central to the city’s growth, regeneration and sense of place. Following the announcement that Dave Moutrey is retiring, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Culture & Creative Industries to lead at a pivotal moment. This is one of the most senior local authority culture roles in the UK, with significant national and international influence. The role provides strategic leadership for Manchester’s cultural and creative ecosystem, from world‑class institutions and major events to grassroots venues, creative businesses and neighbourhood‑based activity. Reporting to the Strategic Director (Neighbourhoods), you will act as Senior Responsible Officer for our Always Everywhere: Manchester’s Cultural Ambition 2024–2034, and lead delivery of the Manchester Creative Industries Strategy. You will ensure culture and creativity are embedded across council priorities including inclusive economic growth, regeneration, skills, health and zero‑carbon ambitions.
Responsibilities
- Provide clear, visible leadership for culture, creative industries and major cultural programmes.
- Chair and strengthen citywide governance, including the Cultural Strategy Partnership Board, Creative Industries Leadership Group and Events Commission.
- Lead significant capital, commissioning and regeneration activity linked to culture and creative industries.
- Secure investment and drive innovation, commercial development and cross‑sector partnerships.
- Represent and advocate for Manchester locally, nationally and internationally with government, funders and global cultural networks.
- Lead and grow a multidisciplinary service, building new creative industries capacity within the Council.
Qualifications
- Nationally credible cultural leader with significant senior‑level experience in the cultural or creative industries, public sector or similar complex environments.
- Strong track record in creative industries development, investment and partnership working with financial and commercial acumen.
- Politically astute, emotionally intelligent, confident communicator able to navigate complex issues, convene diverse partners and deliver at pace.
- Deep understanding of UK cultural policy, the role of local government and a genuine commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and neighbourhood access.
Benefits we offer
- Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. You may purchase up to two additional weeks.
- A buzzing pension – enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with options to top up; includes life cover of three times the salary as a lump sum.
- Enhanced parental and carer’s leave – designed to provide ample time to bond with a newborn or support a family during critical life events.
- Brilliant perks – discounts on weekly shopping, holidays, phone contracts, cycle‑to‑work scheme, free flu jabs and eye tests, and more.
- Learn and grow – diverse learning opportunities, from workshops and training to apprenticeships and qualifications, beginning with a comprehensive onboarding process.
- Good Employment Charter member – commitment to secure, flexible work; fair pay, trade unions, health and wellbeing support throughout the working life.
- Up to 3 days volunteering leave – pro‑rate paid volunteering leave, in addition to existing benefits.
Closing date Week Commencing 25th May 2026
Director of Culture & Creative Industries in Manchester employer: Old Moat
Join us in shaping Manchester, one of the world's most vibrant cultural cities, as the Director of Culture & Creative Industries. We offer a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, with generous holiday allowances, a robust pension scheme, and diverse learning opportunities. As a member of the Good Employment Charter, we are committed to providing a flexible and inclusive workplace where your leadership can make a significant impact on our community and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Culture & Creative Industries in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the cultural and creative industries. Attend events, join forums, and engage on social media. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for culture! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your genuine love for Manchester's cultural scene. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to its growth and development.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in the creative industries. Be ready to discuss how you can lead initiatives that align with Manchester’s Cultural Ambition 2024–2034. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a visionary!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Culture & Creative Industries in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Culture:When writing your application, let your love for culture and the creative industries shine through. We want to see how your experiences and vision align with Manchester's vibrant cultural scene. Make it personal and relatable!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in leading cultural initiatives. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities in this role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and ideas. Avoid jargon unless it’s absolutely necessary, and make sure your passion comes through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Old Moat
✨Know Your Cultural Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into Manchester's cultural scene. Familiarise yourself with key institutions, events, and grassroots initiatives. This knowledge will not only show your passion for the role but also demonstrate your commitment to shaping the city's cultural identity.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Culture & Creative Industries, your leadership approach is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to convene diverse partners and navigate complex issues, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Partnerships
This role requires strong partnership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience in building cross-sector collaborations and securing investment. Share specific instances where your efforts have driven innovation and growth within the creative industries.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the 'Always Everywhere: Manchester’s Cultural Ambition 2024–2034' and the Manchester Creative Industries Strategy. During the interview, articulate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, especially regarding inclusive economic growth and community engagement.
