At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Towner Eastbourne into a new phase of growth and artistic ambition.
- Company: Towner Eastbourne, an award-winning visual arts organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary around £100,000 and the chance to shape cultural impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant influence and career development in the arts.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming a leading UK cultural institution.
- Qualifications: Proven CEO/Director experience in cultural or mission-driven organisations.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 100000 £ per year.
Towner Eastbourne is seeking an exceptional CEO (Director) to lead one of the UK’s most distinctive visual arts organisations into an ambitious new phase of growth. Awarded Art Fund Museum of the Year 2020 and host of the Turner Prize 2023, Towner combines a nationally significant collection – including the UK’s foremost public holding of works by Eric Ravilious – with bold contemporary programming and deep civic impact.
Guided by its Strategic Priorities, the organisation is expanding its reach, influence and sustainability across multiple sites. As CEO (Director), you will be the strategic, artistic and executive leader of Towner, you will:
- Deliver a compelling vision that balances artistic ambition, public value and commercial realism.
- Lead Towner as a multi-site organisation, including the major new Towner Seven Sisters development at Black Robin Farm in the South Downs National Park.
- Strengthen national and international profile while deepening regional and civic impact.
- Drive financial resilience through mixed income models, partnerships and fundraising.
- Inspire a values-led, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture.
We are looking for a senior, credible and entrepreneurial leader with:
- CEO/Director experience in a major cultural, creative or mission-driven public organisation.
- Strong artistic and sector credibility, with the ability to speak confidently about art and cultural practice.
- A proven track record of strategic growth, financial stewardship and working with boards and major stakeholders.
- The insight and judgement to navigate complexity, change and opportunity in a shifting cultural landscape.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a leading UK cultural institution at a moment of significant ambition and possibility.
For further information and details on how to apply, please visit: an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners.
Chief Executive Officer in Heathfield employer: Towner Eastbourne
Towner Eastbourne is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead one of the UK's most distinctive visual arts organisations. With a commitment to artistic ambition and public value, Towner fosters a values-led, inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Located in the scenic South Downs National Park, employees benefit from a vibrant community atmosphere and the chance to make a significant impact on both regional and national cultural landscapes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in Heathfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the arts and culture sector, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, let your enthusiasm for the arts and Towner's mission shine through. Share your vision for how you can contribute to their growth and impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Towner’s recent projects and initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around financial resilience and community engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to Towner’s exciting future.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in Heathfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:When crafting your application, remember that Towner Eastbourne is looking for someone who can lead with vision and creativity. Tailor your language to reflect an understanding of the arts sector and the unique challenges it faces.
Showcase Your Experience:Highlight your previous roles and achievements that align with the responsibilities of a CEO. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic growth and financial stewardship skills, as these are key to the role.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. Towner values a values-led and inclusive culture, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for the arts and how you envision contributing to their mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Towner Eastbourne
✨Know Your Vision
As a potential CEO, you need to articulate a compelling vision for Towner Eastbourne. Think about how your artistic ambition aligns with public value and commercial realism. Prepare to discuss specific ideas on how you would lead the organisation into its next phase of growth.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your previous experience in leading cultural or mission-driven organisations. Be ready to share examples of strategic growth and financial stewardship. This is your chance to demonstrate your credibility and how you've successfully navigated complex challenges in the past.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Understand the importance of partnerships and fundraising in this role. Prepare to discuss how you would strengthen Towner's national and international profile while deepening its regional impact. Think about how you can inspire a values-led culture that resonates with stakeholders.
✨Be Authentic and Inclusive
As a leader, it's crucial to inspire an inclusive and high-performing organisational culture. Reflect on your leadership style and be prepared to discuss how you foster collaboration and creativity within teams. Authenticity will resonate well with the interviewers.
