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- Tasks: Lead operations and support the CEO in delivering the Company's mission.
- Company: Join the Goldsmiths' Company, a historic institution shaping the future of craft and design.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a dynamic work environment in London.
- Other info: Apply by 3pm on 24 July; interviews on 5 and 7 August.
- Why this job: Be part of a prestigious team influencing heritage and innovation as the Company approaches its 700th anniversary.
- Qualifications: Senior executive experience in large organisations, with strong leadership and strategic skills required.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 126000 £ per year.
Chief of Staff – £110,00-£120,000 per annum
The Goldsmiths’ Company is seeking an experienced Chief of Staff, to be the CEO\’s senior operational partner, ensuring seamless delivery of the Company\’s mission while the CEO focuses on external leadership and strategy. This is a rare opportunity to lead operations for one of Britain\’s most historic and influential institutions.
Place of work
Goldsmiths’ Hall, London, EC2V 6BN – At least 3 days a week on site with flexibility to work from home up to 2 day a week
Working hours
Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5:15pm (with flexibility required for frequent evening and some weekend events)
The Goldsmiths’ Company
A contemporary company with deep roots in the past, the Goldsmiths\’ Company is one of the Great Twelve City of London Livery Companies. Established in 1327 with a thriving 1,500-strong membership, the Company has contributed to national life for eight centuries.
The Goldsmiths\’ Group comprises the Goldsmiths\’ Company, London Assay Office, Goldsmiths\’ Foundation and the Goldsmiths\’ Centre. The Company advances silversmithing and jewellery through training, exhibitions and fairs, and operates the London Assay Office which protects trade and consumers by hallmarking precious metals. The Goldsmiths\’ Foundation transforms life-chances by supporting technical and vocational education through grant-making and advocacy, including founding and funding the Goldsmiths\’ Centre.
Role Purpose
This is a rare opportunity to lead operations for one of Britain\’s most historic and influential institutions. As Chief of Staff, you\’ll be the CEO\’s senior operational partner, ensuring seamless delivery of the Company\’s mission while the CEO focuses on external leadership and strategy. You\’ll bridge the executive office with governing bodies, committees, and teams, driving excellence across all functions.
As a Senior Executive Group member alongside the CFO, you\’ll lead operations, communications, membership, and collections. You\’ll shape annual plans, oversee performance, and manage transformational projects as the organisation approaches its 700th anniversary.
This new role offers exceptional scope to influence the future direction of a prestigious institution, balancing heritage stewardship with contemporary innovation. Join a dynamic leadership team committed to excellence in craft, charity, and stewardship of a remarkable heritage.
Duties& Responsibilities
Strategy and Governance
Shape long-term vision and strategy as a Senior Leadership Team member with the CEO and CFO
Prepare board materials and briefings for the Court of Assistants (board equivalent), Court of Wardens and committees; attend Court and committee meetings as a member of Senior Executive Group
Ensure effective governance across all committees through coordinated planning, clear communication, and structured decision-making
Act as the CEO\’s deputy for internal meetings and decisions as required, as well asduring holidays and at select external functions, together with the CFO
Operational Leadership
Lead all operational functions as the senior executive responsible for day-to-day delivery
Develop annual operating plans with clear objectives, performance indicators, and resource allocation , working closely with the CFO
Produce quarterly progress reports and oversee annual report preparation
Line manage the Director of Operations, overseeing buildings, facilities, IT, compliance, events, catering, risk and security
Direct cross-functional teams and coordinate programmes across departments and external partners
Drive excellence through process improvements and performance management
Senior leadership of all security matters, including crisis management and businesscontinuity planning
Membership, Stakeholder Management & External Relations
Oversee the development and implementation of the membership strategy across allcategories, from recruitment through engagement to retention
Line manage the Director of Membership & Communications, delivering programmes that foster an active, engaged membership
Oversee external communications strategy ensuring consistent messaging, effective reputation management and effective audience growth and engagement
Support the CEO in managing relationships with City of London, livery partners, and national stakeholders in craft and industry
Represent the Company at external events as the CEO\’s delegate
Ensure internal communications are coordinated for consistent messaging
Collections, Heritage & Strategic Projects
Line manage the Head Curator and Head of Library and Archive, stewarding historic collections, archives, and library
Lead strategic planning for the Company\’s 700th anniversary celebrations
Oversee major change initiatives with effective communication and implementation
Manage special projects assigned by the CEO, including policy development and governance reviews
Essential skills, knowledge and experience
Experience
Senior executive leadership of large or complex organisations
Directing cross-functional teams and large-scale programmes
Working with boards or governing bodies, in particular in charity or non-profit environments
Event management and public programming
Stakeholder management and communications, including partnership working
Experience of working in membership bodies, heritage organisations, or complex stakeholder environments (preferred)
Leading organisational transformation and change
Demonstrated success in organisational transformation and change management
Skills
Outstanding operational leadership and programme management
Excellent people leadership and team development
Strategic thinking with ability to synthesise complex information and communicate at all levels
Advanced stakeholder management and relationship-building
Strong financial skills including budget setting and management
Developing structured business plans with performance metrics
Understanding of governance and policy development
Exceptional written and verbal communication, including board-level presentation
Problem-solving and sound judgement under pressure
Personal Qualities
Absolute discretion with confidential and sensitive matters
High emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity for historic traditions and contemporary needs
Collaborative leadership style with influence across all levels
Adaptability and resilience with competing priorities
Strong integrity and professional ethics
Commitment to environmental sustainability and equity, diversity and inclusion
Genuine enthusiasm for craft and design, heritage, and philanthropy
Heritage, cultural, or charitable sectors
Membership organisations or professional bodies
Knowledge of City of London institutions and livery world
Understanding of craft industries, apprenticeships, or vocational education
Professional qualification in management, business, or related discipline
Key relationships
Internal:
Chief Executive & Clerk (primary reporting relationship)
Chief Finance Officer (peer relationship)
Court of Assistants and Court of Wardens
Department heads and senior managers
Goldsmiths\’ Centre Director and Board
London Assay Office Director and Management Board
Goldsmiths’ Foundation Director and trustees
Goldsmiths’ Company members: Freemen and Liverymen
External:
City of London officials and Lord Mayor\’s office
Other livery company Clerks and CEOs
Key stakeholders in the jewellery, silversmithing and wider art, craft and design industries
Government officials and regulatory bodies
Strategic and charitable partners
Media and communications partners
Additional requirements
Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional presentation and conduct
Ability to work flexible hours including regular evening and weekend events
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required
Respect for the Company’s heritage and traditions while implementing modern organisational practices and contemporary relevance
How to apply
To apply, please email your CV, and a one-page motivation letter setting out why you want the role and how you meet the requirements, to
The deadline for applications is 3pm on Thursday 24 July, and if you are successful in being shortlisted, we will be in touch shortly after the closing date.
Interviews
First round interviews, Tuesday 5 August 2025– in person at Goldsmiths’ Hall
Final round interviews, Thursday 7 August 2025 – in person at Goldsmiths’ Hall
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Chief of Staff – £110,00-£120,000 per annum employer: The Goldsmiths' Company
Contact Detail:
The Goldsmiths' Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief of Staff – £110,00-£120,000 per annum
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the heritage and craft sectors. Attend events or seminars related to the Goldsmiths' Company to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders, which can give you insights into the organisation's culture and values.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Goldsmiths' Company's history and current initiatives. Understanding their mission and recent projects will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your operational leadership skills and ability to drive organisational change.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of governance and stakeholder management. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully navigated relationships with boards or governing bodies in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Chief of Staff position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief of Staff – £110,00-£120,000 per annum
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chief of Staff position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific duties outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter should clearly articulate why you are interested in this role and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the Goldsmiths' Company's mission and values.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on showcasing your senior executive leadership experience, particularly in large or complex organisations. Include examples of your work with boards, stakeholder management, and any relevant experience in heritage or membership organisations.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and motivation letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a role at this level.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Goldsmiths' Company
✨Understand the Company’s Heritage
Before your interview, take some time to research the Goldsmiths’ Company and its rich history. Understanding its mission and values will help you align your answers with what they stand for, showing that you respect their traditions while also being ready to implement modern practices.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As a Chief of Staff, you'll be involved in shaping long-term strategies. Be ready to discuss your experience in strategic planning and how you've successfully led operational changes in previous roles. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to think critically and lead cross-functional teams.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The role requires strong people leadership and team development skills. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've motivated teams and managed diverse groups. Highlight your collaborative approach and how it has led to successful outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Given the importance of stakeholder relationships in this role, prepare to discuss your experience in managing various stakeholders. Share specific examples of how you've built and maintained relationships, particularly in complex environments like heritage organisations or membership bodies.