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- Tasks: Lead Yorkshire Sculpture Park into its next chapter with innovative and people-focused strategies.
- Company: Join Europe’s largest sculpture park, renowned for contemporary art and stunning landscapes.
- Benefits: Be part of a vibrant community, shaping cultural experiences and engaging diverse audiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while ensuring sustainability and artistic excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in cultural leadership and a passion for contemporary art.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to drive change as YSP approaches its 50th anniversary.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Europe’s largest sculpture park and an internationally acclaimed centre for contemporary art, is seeking an exceptional leader to shape its next chapter.
Set within 500 acres of stunning 18th‑century landscape, YSP welcomes 380,000 visitors annually and engages 40,000 people through its learning programmes. Home to Barbara Hepworth’s The Family of Man and major works by Henry Moore, William Kentridge, and Bharti Kher, YSP mounts world‑class exhibitions that bring global artists into extraordinary dialogue with landscape and community.
As YSP approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, the Board are looking to appoint a Director & Chief Executive who will provide entrepreneurial, commercial, and people‑focused leadership to secure the organisations long‑term sustainability, while maintaining their international reputation for contemporary sculpture and art in the landscape. They are seeking a leader who can bring fresh thinking, organisational effectiveness expertise, and the ability to build new income streams while creating a culture of care, engagement, and artistic excellence.
The successful candidate will bring proven experience in cultural leadership, operating complex business models, and inspiring diverse teams. Their understanding of contemporary art, combined with commercial acumen and organisational leadership, will drive the mission to make extraordinary art accessible to all.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference PBWHA. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Monday 3 November.
Seniority level
- Executive
Employment type
- Full‑time
Job function
- Business Development and Sales
Industries
- Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos
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Director & Chief Executive employer: Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Contact Detail:
Yorkshire Sculpture Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director & Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the art and cultural sectors, especially those connected to Yorkshire Sculpture Park. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for contemporary art! When you get the chance to meet with decision-makers, share your vision for how you can enhance YSP's mission. Let them see your enthusiasm and commitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching YSP’s past exhibitions and community engagement initiatives. Bring fresh ideas to the table that align with their goals, and demonstrate how you can contribute to their legacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Director & Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Research Yorkshire Sculpture Park and its mission. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their vision and values.
Be Authentic: We want to see the real you! Don’t just list your achievements; share your passion for contemporary art and leadership. Let your personality shine through your writing – it’s all about making a genuine connection.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Highlight your proven experience in cultural leadership and business models. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire teams and drive organisational effectiveness. Make it clear why you’re the perfect fit for this role!
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the application guidelines closely. Apply through our website as instructed, and double-check that you’ve included all required documents. A well-organised application shows attention to detail and professionalism!
How to prepare for a job interview at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
✨Know Your Art and Audience
Dive deep into the world of contemporary art, especially the works showcased at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Understand their mission and how they engage with the community. This knowledge will help you connect your vision with theirs during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with fostering a culture of care and engagement. Think of specific examples where you've inspired diverse teams or navigated complex business models successfully.
✨Bring Fresh Ideas to the Table
As they’re looking for fresh thinking, come armed with innovative ideas on income generation and organisational effectiveness. Be ready to discuss how these ideas can enhance YSP's long-term sustainability while maintaining its artistic excellence.
✨Practice Your Pitch
Since this is an executive role, practice articulating your vision clearly and confidently. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you refine your pitch and ensure you convey your passion for making extraordinary art accessible to all.