Director of Arts

Exciting Leadership Opportunity: Director Arts at The British Council

Opportunity:

The British Council promotes peace and prosperity by fostering connections, understanding, and trust between people in the UK and across the globe. We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Director Arts to join our Global Leadership Team. This pivotal role is the most senior position for our arts and culture initiatives, shaping the future of cultural engagement on a global scale.

About the Role:

The Director Arts will be instrumental in driving the British Council’s mission within the arts and culture sector. As part of our Cultural Engagement (CE) division, which integrates arts, education, English programs, and research, you will lead a talented team of approximately 1,200 professionals worldwide. With an annual turnover exceeding £200 million in 2024/25, CE is central to our impact through research, sector engagement, and policy dialogue, supported by Grant-in-Aid and Partnership Funded (GPF) projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and steer the global Arts strategy, ensuring alignment with the British Council’s mission and objectives.

• Program Oversight: Lead the implementation of arts and culture programs, fostering artistic and cultural exchange between the UK and international partners.

• Sector Collaboration: Engage with the UK’s arts and culture sectors to support their global ambitions and enhance international partnerships.

• Sustainable Growth: Drive income growth and diversification through fundraising, partnerships, and contracts.

• Advocacy: Represent the British Council to stakeholders, the media, and the arts community in the UK and worldwide.

• Operational Excellence: Collaborate with regional and country teams to deliver a sustainable operating model.

Your Impact:

Our Arts teams work globally to create innovative connections through the arts, promoting the UK’s cultural diversity and creativity.

Your leadership will:

• Support artistic and cultural exchanges.

• Highlight the UK’s creative talent through high-profile cultural seasons.

• Strengthen global collaboration within the Creative Economy.

• Address global challenges such as inclusion and sustainability in the arts sector.

Key Accountabilities:

• Leadership & Management

• Strategic Planning & Implementation

• Relationship & Stakeholder Management

• Sector Expertise

• Business Development

• Financial Management

Contract Details:

• Type: Fixed term contract, 3 years + 1-year extension

• Location: United Kingdom

Join Us:

If you are a strategic leader with a passion for the arts and a commitment to fostering global cultural connections, we invite you to apply for this transformative role. Help us shape the future of cultural engagement and make a lasting impact worldwide.

Apply now and be part of a team dedicated to enriching lives through the power of the arts.