At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational strategy and drive organisational transformation at a world-renowned cultural institution.
- Company: Join the National Portrait Gallery, a leading cultural institution in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to shape the future of the Gallery.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative Executive Leadership Team focused on strategic growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on audience engagement and digital innovation in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Substantial executive leadership experience and success in large-scale transformation programmes.
The predicted salary is between 99000 - 121000 £ per year.
The National Portrait Gallery is seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer to join its Executive Leadership Team in London. This newly created leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of one of the world's leading cultural institutions, overseeing operations, people, technology, estates and audience experience as the Gallery delivers its next phase of strategic growth following its landmark redevelopment.
About the role
Reporting directly to the Director, the Chief Operating Officer will become a key member of the newly established Executive Leadership Team, working alongside the Chief Curator, Chief Development Officer and Chief Financial Officer. The successful candidate will help ensure the Gallery operates as a connected, high-performing organisation while leading the next stage of organisational transformation. The role combines strategic leadership with operational delivery, bringing together people, technology, estates, communications and visitor experience to support the Gallery's long-term ambitions.
The National Portrait Gallery recently completed its £44 million Inspiring People redevelopment and is now focused on expanding audiences, strengthening financial resilience and enhancing its digital and operational capabilities. The COO will play a central role in delivering these priorities.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead operational strategy across estates, facilities, security and capital projects
- Oversee technology, digital transformation, cybersecurity and data strategy
- Provide leadership for People & Culture, Information Technology, Estates and the Audiences Directorate
- Drive organisational planning, governance, compliance and business continuity
- Improve visitor experience and audience engagement
- Lead communications and digital engagement strategies
- Champion organisational effectiveness and continuous improvement
- Work closely with the Director and Executive Leadership Team to deliver the Gallery's ten-year strategy
- Strengthen collaboration across departments while building a high-performing organisational culture
About you
The ideal candidate will bring substantial executive leadership experience within a complex organisation and demonstrate success leading large-scale transformation programmes.
You’ll likely have experience in:
- Delivering organisational transformation and operational change
- Leading technology and digital innovation
- Managing significant estates or infrastructure programmes
- Financial planning and investment prioritisation
- Building inclusive, collaborative organisational cultures
Chief Operating Officer in London employer: The National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and innovate within one of the world's foremost cultural institutions located in the heart of London. With a commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, the Gallery fosters an environment where creativity and strategic thinking thrive, especially following its significant redevelopment. Joining the Executive Leadership Team means being part of a transformative journey that not only enhances audience experience but also contributes to the Gallery's long-term vision and resilience.
Contact Details:
The National Portrait Gallery Recruitment Team
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